Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger

Welcome to Your Secure Crypto Journey

Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding destination for users who want to begin managing digital assets with a Ledger hardware wallet. This guide walks you through every essential step—from unboxing your device to safely managing, sending, and receiving crypto—while emphasizing security, clarity, and ease of use.

Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or transitioning from a software wallet, Ledger provides a secure, user-controlled environment designed to protect your private keys and give you full ownership of your assets.

Why Choose a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

A Ledger hardware wallet is built to keep your private keys offline, away from hackers, malware, and phishing attacks. Unlike exchanges or hot wallets, Ledger ensures that you—not a third party—control access to your funds.

Key advantages include:

  • Offline storage of private keys
  • Industry‑leading Secure Element chip
  • Support for thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens
  • Integration with Ledger Live for easy management
  • Regular firmware and security updates

Ledger devices are trusted by millions of users worldwide for long‑term crypto storage and daily transactions alike.

What You Need Before You Start

Before visiting Ledger.com/Start®, make sure you have the following ready:

  • A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or similar)
  • A computer or smartphone with internet access
  • A USB cable or Bluetooth connection (device‑dependent)
  • A quiet, private space to securely write down your recovery phrase

Taking a few minutes to prepare helps ensure a smooth and secure setup experience.

Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

Carefully unbox your Ledger wallet and inspect it. Ledger devices are not pre‑configured, and no recovery phrase should be included in the box. If you find anything suspicious, stop immediately and contact official Ledger support.

Inside the box, you should typically find:

  • The Ledger hardware wallet
  • A USB cable
  • Recovery sheets
  • A quick start guide

Always purchase Ledger devices from official or authorized sources to avoid compromised hardware.

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/Start®

Open your browser and go to Ledger.com/Start®. This is the only recommended place to begin your setup. The page will guide you to download Ledger Live and provide device‑specific instructions.

Avoid third‑party links, ads, or emails claiming to offer setup help. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase online.

Step 3: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application used to manage your Ledger device and crypto assets. It allows you to:

  • Install and manage crypto apps
  • Create and manage accounts
  • Send and receive cryptocurrencies
  • Check balances and transaction history
  • Update firmware securely

Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website. Install it on your desktop or mobile device and follow the on‑screen instructions to continue.

Step 4: Set Up Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live is installed, connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone. You will be prompted to choose between setting up a new device or restoring an existing one.

For new users:

  1. Select Set up as new device
  2. Create a PIN code directly on the device
  3. Confirm the PIN for accuracy

Your PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized physical access, so choose a number that is difficult to guess but easy for you to remember.

Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase) is the most important part of your wallet setup. It consists of 24 words displayed one by one on your Ledger device.

Important security rules:

  • Write the words down in the exact order provided
  • Never take photos or store them digitally
  • Never share the phrase with anyone
  • Store it in a safe, offline location

This phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Anyone with access to it can control your funds.

Step 6: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

To ensure accuracy, Ledger will ask you to confirm your recovery phrase by selecting the correct words in order. Take your time during this step. A single incorrect word can prevent wallet recovery later.

Once confirmed, your Ledger device is fully initialized and secured.

Step 7: Install Crypto Apps

Using Ledger Live, you can now install apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to use, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others. Each app is installed directly onto your Ledger device.

You can install or remove apps at any time without affecting your stored assets. Your private keys remain securely on the device regardless of app changes.

Step 8: Add Accounts in Ledger Live

After installing apps, add accounts in Ledger Live to start managing your crypto. Accounts allow you to view balances, receive funds, and send transactions.

Ledger Live provides a clear dashboard where you can track your portfolio and activity in real time.

Sending and Receiving Crypto Safely

Receiving crypto:

  • Open Ledger Live and select the account
  • Verify the receiving address on your Ledger device screen
  • Share the address with the sender

Sending crypto:

  • Enter the recipient’s address and amount
  • Verify all details on the Ledger device
  • Physically confirm the transaction on the device

Always verify addresses on the device itself, not just on your computer or phone screen.

Keeping Your Ledger Secure

To maintain maximum security:

  • Never share your recovery phrase
  • Beware of phishing emails and fake websites
  • Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated
  • Store your device and recovery phrase separately

Ledger will never contact you asking for confidential information.

Troubleshooting and Support

If you encounter issues during setup or usage, Ledger Live includes built‑in help resources. You can also access official FAQs and guides through the Ledger website.

Avoid unofficial forums or individuals offering “wallet recovery” services.

Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/Start® is your trusted entry point into secure crypto ownership. By following the official setup process and best security practices, you gain full control over your digital assets while minimizing risk.

Take your time, stay vigilant, and enjoy the confidence that comes with managing crypto the right way—securely, privately, and independently.