Welcome to Ledger.com/start
Ledger.com/start is the official beginning point for setting up and securing your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or moving your assets off exchanges into self-custody, this guide will walk you through every step of the process clearly and safely.
Ledger hardware wallets are designed to protect your digital assets by keeping your private keys offline and under your control. By following the instructions on Ledger.com/start, you ensure your device is authentic, your recovery phrase is secure, and your crypto journey begins with strong security foundations.
Why Choose a Ledger Hardware Wallet
Cryptocurrency ownership gives you full control over your funds—but that control comes with responsibility. Unlike traditional banking, there are no password resets or customer service agents who can recover lost access. Security is essential.
Ledger hardware wallets provide advanced protection by isolating your private keys from internet-connected devices. This dramatically reduces the risk of hacking, phishing, malware, and unauthorized access.
Key benefits of using Ledger include:
True self-custody – You own and control your crypto assets
Offline private keys – Keys never leave the device
Secure transaction approval – All actions must be confirmed on the device
Broad asset support – Thousands of coins and tokens supported
Proven security architecture – Trusted by millions of users worldwide
Ledger allows you to interact with the crypto ecosystem while keeping your assets protected.
What You Need Before Getting Started
Before visiting Ledger.com/start, make sure you have:
A Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X)
A computer or smartphone with internet access
A private, distraction-free environment
Pen and paper to record your recovery phrase
Important: Avoid public computers, shared devices, or public Wi-Fi during setup.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official application used to set up and manage your Ledger wallet. It acts as the secure interface between your hardware wallet and the blockchain.
With Ledger Live, you can:
Initialize your device
Add and manage crypto accounts
Send and receive digital assets
Monitor your portfolio
Update device firmware
To download Ledger Live:
Visit the official Ledger website
Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS)
Install and open the application
Only download Ledger Live from official sources. Fake apps are one of the most common crypto scams.
Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live is installed:
Connect your Ledger device using the supplied USB cable
If using Ledger Nano X, you may also connect via Bluetooth on mobile
Open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen instructions
Ledger Live will verify that your device is genuine. This authenticity check ensures the hardware has not been tampered with and is safe to use.
Step 3: Set Up a New Device or Restore One
Ledger.com/start gives you two setup options:
Set Up as a New Device
Choose this if you are using Ledger for the first time. The device will generate a brand-new recovery phrase that controls your wallet.
Restore from Recovery Phrase
Choose this if you already have a 24-word recovery phrase and want to restore access to your existing wallet.
Most first-time users should select Set up as a new device.
Step 4: Create Your PIN Code
You will be prompted to create a PIN code directly on your Ledger device.
The PIN protects your wallet from physical access
Incorrect PIN entries will lock the device
PIN input occurs on the device, not your computer
Choose a PIN that is difficult for others to guess but easy for you to remember.
Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your wallet.
Recovery phrase rules:
Write all 24 words down in order
Use the recovery sheets provided
Store them offline and securely
Never take photos or store digitally
Never share the phrase with anyone
If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or stolen, this recovery phrase is the only way to restore your funds.
Step 6: Confirm the Recovery Phrase
After writing down the phrase, Ledger will ask you to confirm selected words on the device.
This step ensures:
The phrase was written down correctly
You understand its importance
Take your time. Accuracy is critical.
Step 7: Optional Passphrase Protection
Ledger allows you to add an optional passphrase, creating a hidden wallet linked to your recovery phrase.
Benefits of a passphrase:
Adds an extra security layer
Protects funds even if recovery phrase is exposed
Enables multiple wallets under one recovery phrase
Each unique passphrase opens a different wallet. If you enable this feature, make sure you never forget the passphrase—it cannot be recovered.
Step 8: Install Crypto Apps
Ledger devices use individual apps for each cryptocurrency.
Through Ledger Live, you can:
Install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more
Remove apps without losing funds
Manage device storage efficiently
Installing or removing apps does not affect your balances. Your assets always remain on the blockchain.
Step 9: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts
Once apps are installed, you can add accounts in Ledger Live.
You can:
Create multiple accounts for the same coin
Organize funds for savings, spending, or trading
View balances and transaction history
Each account remains fully secured by your Ledger device.
Step 10: Receiving Cryptocurrency
To receive crypto:
Select the account in Ledger Live
Generate a receiving address
Verify the address on your Ledger device
Share the verified address
Always confirm addresses on the device screen to avoid malware or address-replacement attacks.
Step 11: Sending Cryptocurrency
To send crypto:
Enter the recipient’s address and amount
Review the transaction details
Physically confirm the transaction on your Ledger device
No transaction can occur without your approval on the device, even if your computer is compromised.
Step 12: Monitoring Your Portfolio
Ledger Live provides a portfolio overview that includes:
Total value in fiat currency
Individual asset balances
Transaction history
Network fees and confirmations
This allows you to manage your holdings while keeping private keys offline.
Step 13: Firmware Updates and Maintenance
Firmware updates improve security and functionality.
With Ledger Live, you can:
Install official firmware updates
Verify device authenticity
Keep your wallet protected against new threats
Always update through Ledger Live and never disconnect your device during updates.
Advanced Features in Ledger Live
Ledger Live offers additional tools for experienced users:
Staking supported cryptocurrencies
Swapping assets directly within the app
Connecting to third-party apps like DeFi platforms
NFT management for supported networks
All interactions still require device confirmation, maintaining strong security.
Essential Security Best Practices
To protect your assets long-term:
Never share your recovery phrase or passphrase
Ignore emails or messages claiming to be Ledger support
Bookmark official Ledger websites
Always verify transactions on the device
Store recovery phrases in secure locations
Most crypto losses happen due to scams or user error—not device failure.
Troubleshooting and Support
If you experience issues:
Ensure Ledger Live and firmware are up to date
Try a different USB cable or port
Restart your computer or phone
Visit Ledger’s official support center
Never trust unofficial “support” asking for your recovery phrase.
Why Ledger.com/start Is Important
Ledger.com/start exists to ensure every user begins safely and correctly. Skipping steps or using unofficial software increases risk.
By following the official setup process, you establish secure habits that protect your crypto for years to come.
Ledger’s design philosophy prioritizes transparency, open verification, and user control. There are no backdoors, no hidden access, and no remote control over your wallet.
Begin Your Crypto Journey with Confidence
Ledger.com/start is your gateway to secure, self-custodied cryptocurrency ownership. By taking time to set up your device properly, protecting your recovery phrase, and confirming every transaction, you gain full control over your digital assets.
With Ledger, your crypto remains private, secure, and entirely yours—today and into the future.