Ledger.com/start: A Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

The world of cryptocurrency offers incredible opportunities, but it also comes with risks—especially when it comes to securing your digital assets. That is why millions of users trust Ledger hardware wallets for offline, cold-storage protection. If you recently purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or another Ledger device, the best place to begin is Ledger.com/start. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to complete your setup smoothly and safely.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page provided by Ledger, designed to help new users activate, configure, and secure their hardware wallets. Instead of searching around the web or relying on third-party sources, this page serves as the central hub for:

• Downloading Ledger Live (the official app)

• Installing device firmware

• Setting up your recovery phrase

• Adding crypto accounts and managing assets

• Learning how to use your wallet securely

The purpose of Ledger.com/start is to make sure you set up your device properly and avoid scams. Since crypto is often targeted by phishing attacks, always type the URL manually and never trust links from strangers.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device

Before heading to Ledger.com/start, take a moment to verify everything in your box. A standard Ledger package typically includes:

• The Ledger hardware wallet

• A USB cable

• Recovery sheets for writing your 24-word phrase

• A quick start guide

• Optional accessories like stickers

Make sure the device is sealed and has not been tampered with. Ledger devices do not come pre-configured, and they never include a pre-written recovery phrase. If your package contains a printed 24-word phrase, do not use it, as it may be compromised.

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/start

Once you have your device ready, go to Ledger.com/start on your computer or mobile device. This page will automatically detect your Ledger model and guide you through the setup steps.

The page will direct you to download Ledger Live, the official management application for Ledger wallets. Ledger Live is available for:

• Windows

• macOS

• Linux

• iOS and Android (for Bluetooth-enabled devices like the Nano X)

Avoid downloading Ledger Live from any website other than the official source.

Step 3: Install and Launch Ledger Live

After downloading Ledger Live, install it and open the application. You will be asked to choose whether you are setting up a new device or restoring an existing wallet.

If you have a new Ledger device, select “Initialize as new.”
If you want to import an existing wallet using a recovery phrase, choose “Restore from recovery phrase.” Only enter a recovery phrase on the Ledger device itself—not on your computer or phone.

Step 4: Set Up Your Device and Create a PIN

Ledger Live will guide you to turn on your device. Using the physical buttons on your Ledger, you will:

1. Choose a PIN code

2. Confirm your PIN

3. Generate your 24-word recovery phrase

Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. Choose something difficult to guess, and never share it with anyone.

Step 5: Secure Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase is the most important part of your crypto security. Ledger devices generate a unique 24-word phrase that allows you to recover your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Write the words down in order on the recovery sheet provided. Never store the phrase digitally—avoid saving it in email, cloud storage, or on your phone. Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your crypto, so keep it private and secure.

Ledger will ask you to confirm the phrase on-device to ensure you wrote it correctly.

Step 6: Connect Ledger Live and Install Apps

Once your device setup is complete, Ledger Live will help you connect the wallet to your computer or smartphone. After connecting:

• Update your device firmware if prompted

• Install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana)

• Create crypto accounts inside Ledger Live

Each crypto network requires its own app on the Ledger device. You can install multiple apps depending on your storage capacity.

Step 7: Receive and Manage Crypto

After creating your accounts, you can start receiving cryptocurrency. Ledger Live will generate a receiving address and ask you to verify it on your device. Always check that the address shown on your Ledger device screen matches the one inside Ledger Live before sending or receiving funds.

You can also:

• Track portfolio performance

• Stake supported assets

• Swap certain cryptocurrencies

• Use third-party Web3 apps via Ledger’s ecosystem

Ledger ensures that even when you interact online, your private keys remain offline and protected.

Safety Tips When Using Ledger

Using Ledger.com/start helps ensure a secure setup, but ongoing safety is also essential. Keep these guidelines in mind:

• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase

• Never enter your phrase on any website, app, or computer

• Always verify transaction details on the device screen

• Keep your firmware and Ledger Live updated

• Be cautious of fake Ledger emails or support messages

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase—ever.

Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/start is the official and safest starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. By following the steps outlined above—downloading Ledger Live, creating a secure PIN, storing your recovery phrase safely, and verifying all transactions—you equip yourself with one of the strongest crypto security tools available.