Introduction: What Is Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding portal created by Ledger to guide new users through the process of setting up their Ledger hardware wallet safely and correctly. It’s the first step anyone should take after purchasing a Ledger device, whether it’s a Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or the newer models. This centralized step-by-step setup hub ensures users avoid scams, use official software, and protect their crypto assets from common security risks.

Security is paramount in the world of cryptocurrency. Unlike custodial wallets or exchanges, a hardware wallet like Ledger gives you full control over your private keys — meaning you are responsible for protecting them. Ledger.com/Start® is designed to make that responsibility easier to manage and understand.

1. Why You Must Start at the Official Page

The first and most important reason to use Ledger.com/Start® is security:

Avoid phishing sites and fake download links. Scammers frequently create imitation pages that mimic Ledger — if you accidentally use one, you could install malware or lose your crypto.

Ensure you get authentic software and firmware. The Ledger Live app and device firmware updates are provided only through the official start page.

Access accurate, up-to-date setup instructions tailored to your specific device model.

Never trust links from emails, social media, or search ads for setup — always type ledger.com/start directly into your browser.

2. Unboxing and Preparing Your Device

Once you’re on Ledger.com/Start®:

Unbox your Ledger wallet: You should find the hardware device, a USB cable, recovery phrase sheets, and printed instructions.

Verify the packaging: Confirm that the box is sealed and untampered. Ledger devices never come with a pre-written recovery phrase — if you see one, do not use it and contact support.

Check the device screen: On first connection, it should show a standard startup message — not a pre-configured wallet.

Taking these precautions helps ensure the device hasn’t been compromised before you even begin the setup.

3. Downloading and Installing Ledger Live

The next step on Ledger.com/Start® is to download Ledger Live, the companion software that lets you manage your crypto:

Available for: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Ledger Live connects to your hardware wallet, allowing you to install crypto apps, add accounts, manage assets, and make transactions.

Always install from the official page — never from third-party sites or unsolicited links.

Once Ledger Live is installed, launch the app to begin pairing it with your Ledger device.

4. Initializing Your Ledger Wallet

After installing Ledger Live, it will walk you through device initialization:

Choose setup option: New users should pick “Set up as new device.”

Connect your Ledger: Use the USB cable (or Bluetooth on Nano X) to connect to your computer or phone.

Set a PIN code: Choose a secure PIN (typically 4–8 digits) that you’ll use every time you unlock your device.

Record your recovery phrase: This is the most critical step. The device displays a 24-word phrase — write it down exactly as shown on the provided sheets and store them offline.

The 24-word recovery phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Ledger or anyone else will never ask for it — sharing it compromises all your assets.

5. Adding Accounts and Managing Crypto

Once your device is initialized:

Open Ledger Live and add cryptocurrency accounts (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).

Install the necessary blockchain apps on the device through Ledger Live.

You can then send and receive crypto securely, always verifying transactions on the device screen itself.

Ledger supports thousands of coins and tokens, and you can manage multiple accounts within Ledger Live.

6. Ongoing Security Practices

Ledger.com/Start® doesn’t just help you set up your wallet — it also points you toward continuing security best practices:

Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated to protect against vulnerabilities.

Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it.

Always verify transaction details on the device screen before confirming.

If you encounter issues, use the official support links on the start page rather than responding to unsolicited messages — Ledger Support will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger Support™ is your secure gateway to the world of self-custodied crypto. It combines clear setup steps, essential security guidance, and official resources to help you protect and manage your digital assets with confidence.