Ledger.com/start – Official Site | Ledger

Your Complete Guide to Setting Up and Securing Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

As blockchain technology expands and digital assets become increasingly mainstream, the need for robust crypto security is more important than ever. Hardware wallets, especially those produced by Ledger®, are widely regarded as one of the safest ways to store cryptocurrency. Instead of relying on online exchanges or software wallets that may be vulnerable to cyberattacks, Ledger wallets offer offline, tamper-resistant protection.

If you’ve purchased a Ledger device or plan to start using one, Ledger.com/start is the official page where you begin the setup process. This page ensures you download the authentic Ledger Live software, initialize your device correctly, and understand the essential security steps required to protect your assets.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about getting started through Ledger.com/start, from installation to first-time use, best practices, and long-term security.


What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal for setting up Ledger hardware wallets such as:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus
  • Ledger Nano X
  • Ledger Stax

This page ensures that users follow the proper steps to securely initialize their device, install Ledger Live, and begin safely managing digital assets. For new users, Ledger.com/start acts as a guided walkthrough, reducing confusion and minimizing the risk of falling victim to phishing sites or unofficial software sources.

Using the official start page protects you from downloading harmful programs or receiving misleading setup instructions found elsewhere online.


Why Begin at the Official Ledger Setup Page?

Hardware wallets operate differently from online crypto wallets. They store private keys offline, making them immune to many common attack vectors like malware, hacking, and phishing. However, because your device interacts with your computer, it is crucial to follow an official, secure onboarding path.

Starting at Ledger.com/start ensures that:

✔ You download the authentic Ledger Live software

Downloading software from unofficial websites could expose your device to exploits. The official start page provides direct links to the genuine, verified Ledger Live app.

✔ Your device setup is safe and tamper-proof

Ledger.com/start walks you through verifying your device’s authenticity and ensuring your recovery phrase is generated securely.

✔ You learn best practices for crypto security

The page includes tutorials and onboarding instructions that teach you how to protect your PIN, backup your recovery phrase, and maintain your device over time.

✔ You avoid fake or fraudulent setup pages

Scammers often create fake Ledger pages to steal recovery phrases. Ledger.com/start ensures you are on the official website.


Step-by-Step Guide: Getting Started at Ledger.com/start

Setting up a Ledger device is straightforward when following the official instructions. Below is a detailed overview of the entire process.


Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/start

Begin by entering the URL in your browser:
Ledger.com/start

The page will display device options. Select your product (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax). From there, you will be guided to download the official Ledger Live software.

Before proceeding, always double-check that the URL is spelled correctly and uses a secure HTTPS connection.


Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app used to manage your Ledger wallet. It is available for:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android (mobile app)
  • iOS (limited functionality due to Apple restrictions)

Through Ledger Live, you will be able to:

  • Configure your device
  • Install crypto apps
  • Add cryptocurrency accounts
  • Manage your portfolio
  • Send and receive crypto
  • Buy, stake, or swap assets
  • Update firmware
  • Connect to Web3 services

Downloading Ledger Live from the official page ensures you avoid compromised software.


Step 3: Power On and Initialize Your Ledger Device

After installing Ledger Live, connect your Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for the Nano X). Your device will guide you through the initialization steps.

1. Choose a PIN Code

Your Ledger will prompt you to set a secure PIN. This PIN is required every time you use your device.

  • Choose a unique, non-obvious PIN
  • Never share it
  • Never store it digitally

2. Generate Your Recovery Phrase

The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase—the most critical part of your wallet’s security.
You must:

  • Write down all 24 words in the correct order
  • Never store them on your phone or computer
  • Never take photos of your recovery sheet
  • Keep the phrase in a secure offline location

The recovery phrase is the only way to recover funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.


Step 4: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger devices require users to verify the recovery phrase by selecting the correct words on the screen. This ensures you recorded the phrase accurately.

This verification process is performed 100% on the hardware device—never through your computer—protecting your backup from exposure.


Step 5: Install Cryptocurrency Apps on Your Device

Your Ledger hardware wallet supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies. To use a specific coin, you must install the corresponding application on your Ledger device through Ledger Live.

Examples include:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • XRP
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Binance Coin (BNB)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • ERC-20 and EVM tokens

You can install multiple apps depending on the available storage of your device. Apps can be removed and reinstalled at any time without affecting your crypto balances.


Step 6: Add Accounts in Ledger Live

To manage specific cryptocurrencies, you must add accounts within Ledger Live.

Each account corresponds to a unique blockchain address generated by your Ledger. Ledger Live will sync transaction histories and update balances while your device keeps private keys offline.

This step allows you to organize your assets, track their value, and manage portfolios effectively.


Step 7: Send and Receive Crypto Securely

Once your Ledger is set up, you can begin transferring cryptocurrency.

Receiving Crypto

  • Select Receive in Ledger Live
  • Verify the address shown on the computer matches the one displayed on your Ledger device
  • Share the verified address with the sender

Sending Crypto

  • Enter the destination address in Ledger Live
  • Confirm all details on your ledger’s screen before approving
  • Sign the transaction on your device

This verification step ensures that even if your computer were compromised, your device would prevent unauthorized transactions.


Firmware Updates and Ongoing Maintenance

Keeping your Ledger device up-to-date is essential for security. Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve:

  • Stability
  • Device performance
  • Cryptographic protections
  • New protocol support

You can install firmware updates directly through Ledger Live. Always follow instructions carefully and double-check that you’re using the official app.


Security Tips for Ledger Users

Even with a secure device, maintaining good practices is crucial.

✔ Protect Your Recovery Phrase

  • Keep it offline
  • Store it in a fireproof or waterproof location
  • Consider using a metal backup plate
  • Never share it with anyone

✔ Use Only Official Websites

Always verify the URL: Ledger.com
Never click unknown links in emails or messages.

✔ Double-Check All Addresses on Your Device

Only trust addresses confirmed on your Ledger screen.

✔ Beware of Scams and Phishing

Ledger will never contact you asking for your 24-word recovery phrase.

✔ Keep Ledger Live Updated

Updates often include critical security improvements.


Why Ledger Hardware Wallets Are Trusted

Ledger wallets have become one of the most popular hardware choices because they offer:

  • Offline private key security
  • Tamper-resistant design
  • Mature software ecosystem
  • Wide crypto support
  • Web3 connectivity
  • Compatibility with decentralized apps
  • Regular updates and improvements

Combined with careful user practices, Ledger wallets significantly reduce the risk of digital asset theft.


Conclusion

Ledger.com/start is the official and safest way to begin setting up your Ledger device. By guiding users step-by-step through installing Ledger Live, initializing the hardware wallet, securing the recovery phrase, and adding crypto accounts, the page ensures that beginners and experienced users alike can manage cryptocurrencies confidently.

Following the official setup process not only protects your digital assets but also helps build a strong security foundation for long-term crypto management. Whether you’re new to blockchain or a seasoned investor, starting at Ledger.com/start ensures your crypto journey begins safely and correctly.