Start Here | Ledger Login | Official Setup

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— 3 min read

Proper Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet Safely

If you're looking for legitimate instructions on setting up a Ledger hardware wallet, here's the official and secure way to do it. Ledger is one of the most trusted hardware wallets for storing cryptocurrency offline, protecting your private keys from hackers. However, there are many phishing scams using titles like "Start Here | Ledger Login | Official Setup" to trick users into revealing their 24-word recovery phrase (seed phrase), which would allow scammers to steal all your funds irreversibly.

Important Warning: There is no official "Ledger Login" page that requires you to enter a username, password, or—most critically—your recovery phrase online. Ledger never asks for your 24-word recovery phrase via any website, email, app, support chat, or form. If a site asks for it, it's a scam. Close it immediately and report it.

Official Sources Only

Always type these URLs directly into your browser. Do not click links from emails, ads, or search results.

Step-by-Step Official Setup Process (Approximately 800 words)

  1. Purchase and Unbox Your Device Safely Buy your Ledger (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax, Flex, etc.) only from the official shop at https://shop.ledger.com. This ensures it's genuine and not pre-tampered. Upon arrival, check the packaging for tamper-evident seals. Inside, you should find the device, USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X), recovery sheets, and getting-started card. If anything looks suspicious (e.g., pre-initialized device or extra items), contact Ledger support immediately.
  2. Download the Official Ledger Wallet App Go to https://www.ledger.com/start. This page provides a clear, step-by-step guide tailored to your device. It will direct you to download the Ledger Wallet app (the companion software, previously known as Ledger Live).
    • Choose your platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS.
    • Download only from the official links provided. Verify the download if possible (advanced users can check file signatures on the site). Install the app and open it. You'll see a welcome screen with options to set up a new device or recover an existing one.
  3. Connect and Initialize Your Ledger Device
    • For USB devices (e.g., Nano S Plus): Connect via the included cable.
    • For Bluetooth (e.g., Nano X): Pair via the app. On the device screen:
    • Follow prompts to set a strong PIN (4-8 digits, entered directly on the device—never on your computer). This PIN protects physical access.
    • The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the master key to your wallet.
      • Write it down exactly in order on the provided recovery sheet (paper only—never digital photos, screenshots, or typing it online).
      • Store it offline in a secure, fireproof location (consider metal backups for longevity). Split it across multiple safe places if needed.
      • Confirm the words on the device to verify you wrote them correctly. Critical Security Note: This recovery phrase is the only way to recover your funds if the device is lost, damaged, or reset. Anyone with it can steal everything. Ledger employees will never ask for it.
  4. Verify Genuineness and Install Apps In the Ledger Wallet app:
    • Connect your device and follow prompts to check for genuine attestation (the app confirms the device is authentic Ledger hardware).
    • Update firmware if prompted (always through the official app).
    • Go to "My Ledger" or "Manager" section to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). These apps run securely on the device.
  5. Add Accounts and Receive Crypto
    • In the app, add accounts for your chosen coins.
    • Generate a receive address (public—safe to share). Verify the address matches on both the app and device screen before sending funds.
    • Start small: Test with a tiny amount of crypto first to confirm everything works.
  6. Ongoing Best Practices for Security
    • Never enter your recovery phrase anywhere except on a new genuine Ledger device during recovery.
    • Enable a passphrase (optional "25th word" for advanced users) for an extra hidden wallet.
    • Keep the Ledger Wallet app and device firmware updated.
    • Use the device to confirm every transaction physically (prevents malware on your computer from altering amounts).
    • Beware of scams: Fake emails with QR codes, bogus "security updates," or sites mimicking Ledger. Check Ledger's phishing status page: https://www.ledger.com/phishing-campaigns-status.
    • For large holdings, consider multi-location backups or advanced schemes like Shamir's Secret Sharing.

By following these official steps directly from Ledger's site, you'll have a secure cold wallet protecting your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other assets. Millions trust Ledger because it keeps private keys offline and requires physical confirmation for spending.

If you encounter any issues, use the in-app help or official support portal—never third-party "help" sites or unsolicited messages.

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