Ledger.com/Start® | Official Ledger® Wallet Guide™
Welcome to Ledger.com/start – your official gateway to setting up your Ledger hardware wallet securely and confidently. Whether you're new to cryptocurrency or an experienced investor looking to strengthen your security, this page guides you through every step needed to protect your digital assets using a Ledger device.
Ledger.com/start is the only official onboarding platform provided by Ledger, a global leader in cryptocurrency security solutions. Designed to ensure a safe and smooth setup process, this page helps you initialize your device, install Ledger Live, verify authenticity, and begin managing your crypto portfolio with maximum security.
Why Use Ledger.com/start?
When dealing with cryptocurrency, security is everything. The internet is filled with phishing sites and malicious software that attempt to steal private keys and recovery phrases. Ledger.com/start eliminates that risk by providing:
- Official Ledger Live download links
- Step-by-step device setup instructions
- Genuine device verification
- Security best practices
- Troubleshooting guidance
By starting at the official onboarding page, you ensure that your device is configured safely from the beginning.
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before beginning the setup process, make sure you have:
- Your new Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or newer model)
- A computer or smartphone compatible with Ledger Live
- A secure and private environment
- A pen to write down your recovery phrase
Never begin setup on a shared or public computer. Always prioritize privacy and control over your setup environment.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion application used to manage your crypto assets. It allows you to:
- Install cryptocurrency apps on your device
- Add and manage accounts
- Send and receive crypto
- Monitor portfolio performance
- Stake supported assets
- Buy, swap, or sell crypto securely
At Ledger.com/start, you will find the official download links for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Only download Ledger Live directly from the official website to avoid malware.
After downloading, install the application and open it to begin the initialization process.
Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live is installed, connect your hardware wallet using the provided USB cable or Bluetooth (if supported).
You will be given two options:
- Set up as a new device
- Restore from recovery phrase
If this is your first time using the wallet, choose “Set up as new device.”
Your device will then prompt you to:
- Choose a PIN code
- Generate a 24-word recovery phrase
- Confirm the recovery phrase
Choosing a Secure PIN
Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. Choose a PIN that is:
- Unique
- Difficult to guess
- Not reused from other accounts
If someone enters the wrong PIN multiple times, the device will reset itself to protect your funds.
Recording Your Recovery Phrase
The 24-word recovery phrase is the most important part of your setup. It is the master key to your crypto assets. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, this phrase is the only way to recover your funds.
Important security rules:
- Write the words down in the exact order shown
- Never take a photo of the phrase
- Never store it digitally
- Never share it with anyone
- Ledger will never ask for it
Anyone with access to your recovery phrase can control your crypto. Keep it offline and secure.
Step 3: Verify Device Authenticity
Ledger devices contain a Secure Element chip designed to protect against tampering and hacking. During setup, Ledger Live automatically checks the authenticity of your device.
This verification confirms:
- The device is genuine
- The Secure Element is authentic
- The firmware is legitimate
If your device passes verification, you can proceed confidently.
Step 4: Install Crypto Apps
Ledger hardware wallets support thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens. To manage specific assets, you must install the corresponding app onto your device.
For example:
- Install the Bitcoin app to manage BTC
- Install the Ethereum app to manage ETH and ERC-20 tokens
Apps can be installed and removed as needed without affecting your stored assets. Your crypto remains secured by your recovery phrase, not by the app itself.
Step 5: Add Accounts
Once apps are installed, you can add accounts within Ledger Live.
Adding an account allows you to:
- Generate receiving addresses
- View transaction history
- Monitor balances
- Send and receive crypto
Each account is protected by your Ledger device and requires physical confirmation for outgoing transactions.
Sending and Receiving Crypto
Receiving Crypto:
- Open Ledger Live
- Select “Receive”
- Choose the appropriate account
- Verify the address directly on your Ledger device screen
- Share the verified address with the sender
Always verify the address on your device screen, not just on your computer. This prevents malware from altering addresses.
Sending Crypto:
- Select “Send”
- Enter recipient address and amount
- Confirm transaction details
- Approve directly on your Ledger device
Transactions cannot be executed without physical confirmation on the device, adding an essential layer of protection.
Advanced Security Features
Ledger hardware wallets are built with advanced security in mind. Features include:
- Secure Element chip technology
- Offline private key storage
- Physical transaction confirmation
- PIN protection
- Recovery phrase backup system
Your private keys never leave the device. Even if your computer is compromised, your assets remain protected.
Best Security Practices
To maximize your safety:
- Always start setup at Ledger.com/start
- Keep your recovery phrase offline
- Never share your 24 words
- Double-check URLs before entering information
- Enable password lock on Ledger Live
- Keep firmware updated
Be cautious of phishing emails or fake support accounts. Official communication will never request your recovery phrase.
Restoring from Recovery Phrase
If you previously owned a Ledger device or need to restore funds:
- Choose “Restore from recovery phrase”
- Set a new PIN
- Enter your 24-word phrase carefully
- Reinstall necessary apps
- Add your accounts
Your balances will automatically reappear once accounts are re-added.
Troubleshooting Support
Ledger.com/start also provides links to official support resources. If you experience issues such as:
- Device not connecting
- Firmware update errors
- App installation problems
- Bluetooth connectivity issues
Consult the official help center before attempting third-party fixes.
Avoid searching random forums for recovery advice, especially if it involves sharing your recovery phrase.
Why Ledger?
Ledger has become a trusted name in crypto security due to its commitment to:
- Hardware-based protection
- Open transparency in security architecture
- Continuous firmware updates
- Broad crypto compatibility
- User-friendly interface
By combining security with usability, Ledger empowers individuals to take full control of their digital wealth.
Take Control of Your Crypto
Cryptocurrency represents financial independence and ownership. But with ownership comes responsibility. Ledger.com/start ensures that your first step into secure crypto management is done correctly.
From unboxing to transacting, the onboarding process is designed to protect you from common threats while keeping setup simple and accessible.
If you’ve just purchased your Ledger device, go directly to Ledger.com/start and follow the official instructions carefully. A few minutes of careful setup can secure your digital assets for years to come.