Ledger.com/Start® | The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started with Your Ledger Wallet

ian

— 4 min read

In the world of cryptocurrencies, one principle stands above all others: security first. Whether you’re new to crypto or a seasoned investor, protecting your digital assets is critical. Ledger hardware wallets have become one of the most trusted tools for safeguarding private keys — the secret codes that secure access to your crypto holdings. But the journey begins with one essential step: setting up your device properly through Ledger.com/Start®, the official onboarding portal.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from unboxing your device to managing cryptocurrencies securely.

Why Starting at Ledger.com/Start® Matters

Before we dive into the step‑by‑step setup process, it’s important to understand why the official start page matters.

There are countless fake websites, phishing links, and malicious downloads circulating online that mimic Ledger’s branding and can steal your sensitive information. By beginning at Ledger.com/Start® — and by typing the URL manually into your browser — you ensure:

  • You’re accessing trusted setup instructions directly from Ledger’s official site.
  • You’ll download the correct version of Ledger Live — the software that manages your wallet.
  • You avoid counterfeit software designed to capture recovery phrases or install malware.

In short: security begins with how you start. Ledger’s onboarding process is designed to keep your keys — and therefore your assets — safe from the beginning.

Step 1 — Unbox and Inspect Your Ledger Wallet

Once your Ledger hardware wallet arrives, take a moment to inspect the packaging carefully. Ledger hardware devices — such as the Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or other models — are shipped in tamper‑evident boxes. If anything looks opened, damaged, or suspicious, stop immediately and reach out to Ledger Support.

Inside the box, you should typically find:

  • Your Ledger device
  • A USB cable (or Bluetooth support for some models)
  • Blank recovery phrase sheets
  • A quick‑start guide

Important: Ledger devices never come with a pre‑written recovery phrase. If you find one, the device may have been compromised — do not use it. Contact Ledger Support directly.

Step 2 — Visit Ledger.com/Start

Now it’s time to begin the official setup. Open a secure browser and type:

https://www.ledger.com/start

Manually entering the URL helps protect you from mistyped links that could redirect to fraudulent sites. Once you’re on the page, select your specific Ledger hardware model and follow the guided setup instructions.

Step 3 — Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion application that connects your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer or mobile device. It’s essential — without it, you can’t manage your crypto accounts, install asset apps, receive balances, or send transactions.

From the start page:

  1. Click Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android).
  2. Run the installer and follow the instructions.
  3. Once installed, open the app to begin configuration.

⚠️ Tip: Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com. Third‑party downloads or links from emails/social posts may lead to fake apps containing malware.

Step 4 — Initialize Your Ledger Device

With Ledger Live installed and open, it’s time to configure your hardware wallet.

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone using the provided cable (or Bluetooth on supported models).
  2. The device screen will light up and prompt you to Set up as new device.
  3. Follow the on‑screen instructions.

You’ll be asked to choose a PIN code — a 4 to 8‑digit number that protects access to your device. Avoid easy combinations like birthdays or repeating digits. This PIN is entered directly on the Ledger device’s screen, so it never gets sent to your computer.

Step 5 — Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

One of the most important aspects of your Ledger wallet is the 24‑word recovery phrase. After choosing your PIN, your Ledger device will generate this phrase — a human‑readable backup for your private keys.

Here’s how to handle it:

  • Use the included recovery sheets — never store this phrase digitally.
  • Write each word in the exact sequence shown.
  • Store the sheet in a secure, offline location (ideally more than one).
  • Never share this phrase with anyone. Ledger Support will never ask you for it.

Warning: Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your crypto — even if they don’t have the physical Ledger device.

Step 6 — Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

To ensure you copied the phrase correctly, the Ledger device will ask you to confirm certain words. Take your time and verify carefully. This step is vital — a single spelling mistake can make wallet recovery impossible.

Only proceed once you’ve confirmed the phrase accurately on the device.

Step 7 — Pair Your Device with Ledger Live

Now that your Ledger is set up and backed up, it’s time to connect it with Ledger Live:

  1. Unlock your Ledger device with the PIN.
  2. In Ledger Live, choose “Get started” and allow the app to recognize your device.
  3. Ledger Live will walkthrough any firmware updates and verify that your hardware is genuine.

Keeping your firmware and Ledger Live up to date is key to ongoing security.

Step 8 — Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Ledger devices support thousands of tokens, but each blockchain requires its own app on your device. In Ledger Live:

  1. Go to the Manager tab.
  2. Install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).

You can install as many apps as your device’s storage allows. Ledger Live makes this process straightforward and secure.

Step 9 — Add Crypto Accounts

Once the necessary apps are installed:

  1. Click Accounts in Ledger Live.
  2. Add new accounts for each cryptocurrency.
  3. Follow the prompts to synchronize and name each account.

Now you’re ready to receive, send, and manage your crypto assets directly from Ledger Live — all while the private keys remain securely stored inside your Ledger device.

Final Tips for Ongoing Security

Getting started with your Ledger wallet is just the beginning. To stay secure:

  • Never share your recovery phrase.
  • Always download software from Ledger.com — never click links in unsolicited messages.
  • Regularly check for software and firmware updates.
  • Consider a metal backup for your recovery phrase — paper can degrade.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/Start® is more than just a URL — it’s your gateway to securing your digital future. From the moment you unbox your hardware wallet to adding your first crypto account, the official setup process ensures you’re protected from scams and missteps. Following these steps carefully helps you safeguard your private keys — the foundation of crypto security.

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