How to Get Started with Ledger.com/start
If you’ve purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, such as the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, your first step is visiting Ledger.com/start. This is the official portal for initializing your device, installing the Ledger Live application, and setting up your wallet securely. Using the official site ensures that you protect your cryptocurrency from scams and maintain full control over your private keys.
Why Use Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for new Ledger users. Here’s why it’s critical:
Official and secure: Avoids phishing websites or fake downloads that could compromise your crypto assets.
Verified software and firmware: Downloads from the official site are authenticated, ensuring the Ledger device functions safely.
Step-by-step guidance: Clear instructions make it easy for beginners to set up their wallets properly.
Using any other source for setup increases the risk of loss or theft of your crypto. Always start at Ledger.com/start.
Step 1: Access the Official Page
Open a browser and type https://www.ledger.com/start manually. Avoid clicking links from emails or social media, which could be phishing attempts.
Select your Ledger device — Nano S Plus or Nano X — to receive model-specific instructions.
This ensures you follow the correct setup process for your device and protects against fraudulent sites.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official application for managing your Ledger wallet:
Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Allows you to check your balances, send and receive cryptocurrencies, and manage multiple wallets in one place.
Provides secure access to Ledger’s ecosystem of apps for different cryptocurrencies.
Always download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start to avoid malware or compromised versions.
Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the USB cable (or Bluetooth, for Ledger Nano X) to connect your device to your computer or smartphone.
Ledger Live will detect your device and guide you through the setup process.
This ensures your hardware wallet is recognized and ready for initialization.
Step 4: Install or Update Firmware
Before your Ledger can be used, it may need a firmware installation or update:
The firmware is digitally signed to guarantee authenticity.
Follow the prompts in Ledger Live to complete the installation.
Updated firmware ensures your wallet has the latest security features and bug fixes.
Without updated firmware, your device cannot securely manage cryptocurrencies.
Step 5: Initialize Your Wallet
Ledger offers two options for wallet setup:
Set up as a new device: Creates a new wallet with a unique set of private keys stored securely on your Ledger device.
Restore from recovery phrase: If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous Ledger device, you can restore your wallet safely.
Ledger will guide you through this process, ensuring your wallet is configured securely.
Step 6: Secure Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device generates a 24-word recovery phrase, which is the only way to restore your wallet if the device is lost or damaged:
Write the recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet. Store it in a safe, offline location.
Do not take photos or store the phrase digitally — this could expose your funds to hackers.
Confirm the recovery phrase on your device to ensure it is accurate.
The recovery phrase is the ultimate key to your cryptocurrency. Protect it as carefully as you would a physical safe.
Step 7: Set a PIN
Choose a strong PIN code for your Ledger device. You will need this every time you connect the device.
Avoid simple or easily guessable codes, such as “1234” or “0000.”
The PIN prevents unauthorized access to your wallet even if your device is physically stolen.
Step 8: Install Cryptocurrency Apps
Ledger supports multiple cryptocurrencies through dedicated apps:
Use Ledger Live to install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported coins.
Each app is isolated, ensuring your private keys remain secure even when multiple cryptocurrencies are managed.
Step 9: Start Using Ledger Live
Once setup is complete, Ledger Live allows you to:
Send and receive cryptocurrencies securely.
Monitor balances and transaction history.
Manage multiple coins and tokens from a single interface.
Access decentralized applications (dApps) safely, with transactions verified on the Ledger device.
All sensitive operations require confirmation on the hardware wallet, keeping your private keys offline.
Best Security Practices
To keep your cryptocurrency safe:
Always use Ledger.com/start for downloads and firmware updates.
Keep your 24-word recovery phrase offline and secure.
Use a strong, unique PIN and consider enabling additional security features where applicable.
Update firmware and Ledger Live regularly.
Avoid using public or shared devices when accessing Ledger Live.
Following these practices helps protect your funds against theft, phishing, and accidental loss.
Benefits of a Properly Set Up Ledger
By following the official setup process:
You maintain full control of your private keys offline.
You can manage multiple cryptocurrencies securely.
Security features such as PIN protection and recovery phrase storage ensure maximum protection.
You can confidently interact with exchanges and decentralized apps without exposing your keys.
Final Thoughts
Your Ledger device is more than a wallet — it is a secure vault for your digital assets. By using Ledger.com/start and following the official setup steps, you guarantee that your device, Ledger Live, and recovery phrase are handled securely.
A properly configured Ledger wallet gives you peace of mind, knowing that your cryptocurrency is protected from online threats and unauthorized access. Treat your recovery phrase like a physical key — store it safely and never share it digitally. Once your setup is complete, you can securely manage, send, and receive cryptocurrency with confidence.