Official® | Lédger.com/Start® | Getting Started

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— 5 min read

Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding portal designed to guide users through the complete process of setting up and using a Ledger hardware wallet to securely manage cryptocurrency holdings. This platform ensures that every user, whether new to crypto or experienced, follows a standardized and secure workflow from the moment they unbox their device to the point where they are confidently sending and receiving digital assets. The guide emphasizes security best practices, correct software installation, wallet initialization, account setup, and ongoing protection of digital assets.

Preparing Before You Begin

Device and Tools Required

Prior to starting the setup process, ensure you have the following:

  • A genuine Ledger hardware wallet such as Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or other supported Ledger model.
  • A computer or mobile device that supports Ledger Live, the companion application.
  • A USB cable to connect your hardware wallet to your computer or mobile device. For some models, wireless connection may be available.
  • A secure place to write down your 24‑word recovery phrase. This can be the physical recovery sheets included in the box or a more durable metal backup solution.
  • Sufficient time and a private environment where you will not be disturbed during setup.

Before unboxing, verify that your device was purchased from an authorized vendor. Avoid second‑hand devices or products from unofficial sellers, as these may be compromised.

Unboxing and Initial Inspection

When the Ledger hardware wallet arrives:

  1. Inspect Packaging:
    Carefully check the protective seals on the box. Any broken or suspicious packaging may indicate tampering.
  2. Check Contents:
    Confirm that all items are present, including the hardware wallet, USB cable, recovery sheets, and instructional materials.
  3. Avoid Pre‑Written Recovery Information:
    A Ledger device should never come with a pre‑generated recovery phrase written on a card or displayed on a sticker. If you find such a phrase in the box, stop and contact official Ledger support immediately.

Conducting these checks ensures you start with a legitimate product and reduces the risk of security issues during setup.

Accessing Ledger.com/Start

Once you have your device and tools ready, open a web browser and navigate to Ledger.com/Start. Carefully confirm that the address in your browser’s address bar is correct, and that you see a secure connection indicator before interacting with the page.

On this landing page, you will find the correct version of Ledger Live, the essential software for managing your wallet, configuring accounts, updating firmware, and handling transactions. Ledger Live is available for desktop and mobile platforms, and the website will detect your system and provide the appropriate installation files.

Downloading and Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that acts as the interface between your computer or smartphone and the hardware wallet. To install it:

  1. Click the download button provided on Ledger.com/Start.
  2. Choose the correct version for your operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile OS.
  3. Once downloaded, open the installer file and follow the on‑screen instructions to complete the installation.
  4. After installation finishes, launch Ledger Live.

Always download Ledger Live directly from Ledger.com/Start. Never download it from third‑party websites, app stores not associated with Ledger, or links received in unsolicited messages. Doing so may expose your system to malicious software targeting users’ recovery information.

Initializing Your Ledger Device

With Ledger Live installed and your hardware wallet ready:

  1. Connect the Device:
    Attach your Ledger wallet to your computer using the USB cable provided. Some models may also support wireless setup via Bluetooth.
  2. Power On:
    The device screen will light up. Use the buttons on the device to navigate through the welcome screens.
  3. Choose Setup Type:
    You will be prompted to either set up a new device or restore an existing wallet. Choose Set up as new device if this is your first time using it.
  4. Choose Your Language:
    Select the preferred language displayed on the device screen.

These steps prepare the Ledger device to generate a unique private key and the associated recovery phrase, which together control all crypto assets held in the wallet.

Setting Up a Secure PIN Code

The next step is to create a PIN code that will protect access to the device:

  • Choose a PIN between four and eight digits long.
  • Use the device buttons to scroll through the numbers and select digits.
  • Confirm your PIN by entering it again when prompted.

This PIN must be entered each time you connect your device to Ledger Live, and will prevent unauthorized access if your device is lost or stolen. Do not share your PIN with anyone, and avoid choosing predictable combinations. After several incorrect attempts, the device may reset and require recovery using the backup phrase.

Recording and Securing the Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical step in securing your crypto assets:

  1. Your device will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase.
  2. Carefully write down each word in the exact order displayed using the provided recovery sheet.
  3. Confirm several words when the device prompts you to ensure accuracy.

This recovery phrase is the master key to your wallet. It allows complete access to your cryptocurrency holdings and must be kept offline at all times. Do not take photos, screenshots, or store it digitally. Keep it in a secure location such as a home safe or bank deposit box. Consider duplicating this backup and keeping copies in separate secure locations to protect against physical loss or damage.

Connecting Ledger Live and Verifying Your Device

Once your hardware wallet has its PIN and recovery phrase:

  • Open Ledger Live and begin the onboarding flow.
  • When prompted, connect your Ledger device and enter your PIN.
  • Ledger Live will verify that your device is genuine and protected.

This verification step helps ensure you are using legitimate Ledger firmware and have not installed compromised software. After this, Ledger Live will allow you to proceed with adding cryptocurrency accounts.

Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts

With Ledger Live connected:

  1. Navigate to the Accounts tab.
  2. Click Add account.
  3. Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  4. Confirm the installation of the required app on your device when prompted.
  5. Open the corresponding app on the Ledger device.
  6. Ledger Live will create your account and synchronize it with your device.

You can repeat these steps to add additional accounts for different currencies. Ledger supports thousands of digital assets, including ERC‑20 tokens and other blockchain‑native coins.

Sending and Receiving Transactions

Receiving Cryptocurrency

  1. In Ledger Live, select the account you wish to receive funds into.
  2. Click the Receive button.
  3. Connect and unlock your device.
  4. Your receiving address will appear on both Ledger Live and your device screen.
  5. Verify the address on the device before sharing it.
  6. Share this address with the sender or use it to transfer funds from an exchange.

Always verify the address on the device screen to ensure malware has not altered it.

Sending Cryptocurrency

  1. Select the account you want to send from in Ledger Live.
  2. Click Send.
  3. Enter the recipient’s address and the amount to send.
  4. Review the transaction details and fees.
  5. Connect and unlock your device.
  6. Carefully verify the transaction details shown on the device.
  7. Confirm the transaction if it matches your intention.

Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible, so accuracy and verification are essential.

Maintaining Security Over Time

Security is not a one‑time event, but an ongoing process. Follow these principles:

  • Keep your recovery phrase offline and physically secure.
  • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, including email or chat support.
  • Only install updates for Ledger Live and firmware via official sources.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited messages asking for private information or login credentials.
  • Regularly review security best practices as threats evolve.

Ledger support or official channels will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN, and any request for these is a scam attempt.

Advanced Features and Troubleshooting

Once fully set up, Ledger Live offers additional functionality:

  • Firmware updates for enhanced security and compatibility.
  • Staking support for supported assets.
  • Integrations with decentralized applications and Web3 services.

If issues arise, such as the device not being recognized:

  • Try a different USB cable or port.
  • Ensure the device is unlocked before connecting to Ledger Live.
  • Reboot Ledger Live and reconnect the device.

Appealing for Ledger support assistance from official channels may be necessary if problems persist.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/Start® provides a structured and secure onboarding experience for anyone new to managing cryptocurrency with a hardware wallet. By following the steps above—preparing your tools, verifying authenticity, setting up a PIN, recording your recovery phrase, installing Ledger Live, adding accounts, and transacting securely—you create a hardened foundation for long‑term control of your digital assets.

Protecting your recovery phrase, maintaining vigilance against phishing, and updating software only through official channels ensures your crypto holdings are managed confidently and safely.

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