Official device activation at Ledger.com/Start
Welcome to the official activation portal. Whether you purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or another Ledger device, this page walks you through the entire activation and security process—unboxing, PIN setup, recovery phrase backup, software installation, safe usage, and troubleshooting.
Why use a hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets store private keys offline on a tamper-resistant device. That means your keys never leave the device and are never exposed to malware on your computer or phone. By activating your Ledger device at Ledger.com/Start and using the official app (Ledger Live), you minimize the risk of theft and phishing.
Unboxing & first impressions
Your Ledger device arrives in tamper-evident packaging. Verify seals and included materials. Inside you'll typically find the device, a USB cable, a recovery card, instructions, and sometimes stickers. If anything appears missing or tampered with, stop and reach out to official Support.
Step-by-step activation (quick overview)
Attach your Ledger to a computer or phone using the supplied cable. Power on and select your language on the device screen. The device will prompt you to create a PIN; choose a PIN that's hard to guess but memorable.
The device generates a recovery phrase (seed) of 24 words. Write them down in order on the provided recovery card. Keep this card offline and secure. This phrase is the only way to restore your funds if the device is lost or damaged.
Ledger will request confirmation of certain words. This confirms you've copied them correctly. If you make a mistake, generate a fresh seed and repeat the process.
Download Ledger Live from the official page (Ledger Live). Follow on-screen instructions to add accounts, install coin apps onto the device, and sync balances.
Security best practices — what everyone should do
Security is a combination of device safeguards and user habits. Recommended practices include:
- Never enter your recovery phrase into a website, phone, or email. Ledger staff will never ask for it—any request is a scam.
- Use only official links (for example Ledger.com/Start) and bookmarks. Phishing websites can be convincing.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated. Ledger publishes release notes on their Blog and support pages.
- Consider a secure offline storage method for your recovery card: fireproof safe, safety deposit box, or engraving for long-term retention.
- Opt for a hardware wallet PIN that's unique and not used elsewhere.
Using Ledger with wallets & dApps
Ledger integrates with many third-party wallets and decentralised apps (dApps). When you connect Ledger to apps like MetaMask, always verify the destination address on your Ledger device screen before approving. Even if the app shows an address, the device confirmation step ensures a compromised computer can't silently change where funds go.
Backup, recovery & emergency steps
Record your recovery phrase and store it offline. If your device is lost or broken, obtain a new Ledger (or compatible hardware wallet) and restore using the recovery phrase. If you suspect your seed has been exposed, move funds immediately to a new wallet created with a fresh seed; follow the emergency guidance on Recovery.
Common setup problems & where to get help
If the device isn't recognized, try a different USB cable, port, or computer. Ensure Ledger Live is up to date. If you run into issues, consult the official Support pages or the FAQ. Avoid third-party "fix" guides unless they link to official documentation.
Advanced topics — passphrases & multi-signature
Advanced users can add a passphrase (a 25th word) to create hidden wallets derived from the same seed; this increases privacy but also adds complexity. Multi-signature setups distribute signing between multiple hardware wallets for higher security. Research thoroughly and test small transactions before moving large amounts.
Final checklist before first transaction
- Verify packaging and purchase source (official store or authorized reseller).
- Set a unique PIN and complete recovery phrase backup.
- Install official Ledger Live and confirm firmware authenticity.
- Test a small receive & send to ensure everything functions correctly.
- Store your recovery phrase offline and consider an additional backup method.
Ready to activate your device? Start the official activation at Ledger.com/Start and follow the guided setup in Ledger Live. If you need help along the way, reach out to Support or consult the FAQ.
Activate Your Ledger