Ledger.com/start — Getting Started with Your Ledger Device

Ledger.com/start

The official guide to setting up your Ledger device and Ledger Live safely.

Welcome to Ledger — Your Hardware Wallet Journey Begins Here

Ledger.com/start is the official starting point to set up and secure your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you are new to crypto or a seasoned holder, this page walks you through unboxing your device, installing Ledger Live, creating a new wallet, securing your recovery phrase, and connecting your accounts. Every step focuses on safety and simplicity, so you can confidently manage your digital assets offline.

1. Verify and Unbox Your Device

Before connecting your Ledger device for the first time, make sure the packaging is authentic and untampered. Ledger devices come sealed in a protective box — there should be no plastic wrap or activation cards asking you to visit a website other than ledger.com/start.

Checklist:

Verify the box is intact and not resealed.
Confirm there are no stickers claiming “activation required.”
Ensure your device screen powers on without issues.
Visit ledger.com/start directly to begin setup.

Important: Ledger devices never come with pre-set PINs or recovery phrases. If you received a seed card with words already filled in, stop immediately — it is a scam.

2. Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app for your Ledger device. It lets you manage cryptocurrencies, install apps, and check balances while keeping private keys inside the device. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Installation steps:

Go to ledger.com/ledger-live.
Download the correct version for your operating system.
Install and open the app, then select “Get started.”
Choose your device model — Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax.

After installation, Ledger Live will guide you through connecting your device using USB (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X). The app automatically checks firmware authenticity to ensure your device is genuine.

3. Set Up Your New Device

Follow on-screen prompts on both your Ledger device and the Ledger Live app to create a new wallet. The device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase — your ultimate backup.

Setup steps:

Power on your Ledger device by holding the button.
Choose “Set up as new device.”
Select a secure PIN code (4–8 digits) on the device.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet.
Confirm the words on your device screen to complete verification.

Security tip: Never take a photo or digital copy of your recovery phrase. Store it physically and privately. Anyone who has it can access your crypto.

4. Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase (also known as your “seed”) is the only backup to recover your wallet. Ledger never stores or sees this phrase. If you lose your device, you can restore access using this phrase on a new Ledger device.

Write all 24 words clearly and in order.
Store the sheet in a fireproof and waterproof place.
Consider using a metal backup like Ledger Capsule or Billfodl.
Never type the phrase on a computer or phone.

Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone — not even Ledger support. No legitimate website or employee will ever ask for it.

5. Install Apps and Add Accounts

Once your device is initialized, open Ledger Live and choose which blockchain apps to install — Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others. Each coin requires its own app on your device and an associated account in Ledger Live.

To install apps:

Connect and unlock your device.
Open Ledger Live and go to “My Ledger.”
Install the apps you want from the catalog.
Add accounts under “Accounts” → “Add account.”

Tip: Ledger devices have limited storage. You can uninstall apps without losing funds — your coins remain on the blockchain, linked to your recovery phrase.

6. Send and Receive Crypto Safely

Ledger Live lets you send, receive, and track your crypto securely. Every outgoing transaction must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device. This ensures that even if your computer is compromised, no one can move your funds without your approval.

To receive crypto:

Open Ledger Live → “Receive.”
Select the account and verify the address on your device screen.
Copy and share the verified address with the sender.

To send crypto:

Go to “Send.”
Paste the recipient’s address and enter the amount.
Verify transaction details on your device display.
Confirm using the physical buttons.

Reminder: Always double-check addresses on your device, not your computer screen. Malware can modify clipboard data.

7. Keep Firmware and Ledger Live Updated

Updates ensure you benefit from the latest features and security patches. Ledger regularly releases firmware and software updates to protect against vulnerabilities.

Only update from within Ledger Live.
Confirm firmware authenticity on the device before installation.
Backup your recovery phrase before updating, in case of errors.
After update, recheck your device and app versions.

Never download Ledger Live or firmware from unofficial websites — they could contain malware or phishing traps.

8. Recovering Your Wallet

If your device is lost, damaged, or reset, you can restore access using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device. Simply choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during setup, then re-enter each word using the device buttons.

Warning: Only enter your recovery phrase on a physical Ledger device — never type it on a phone, PC, or website.

9. Common Questions

What is Ledger Live used for?

Ledger Live is your control center — it allows you to send, receive, and manage assets, update firmware, and install blockchain apps. It never exposes your private keys.

Can I use Ledger on multiple computers?

Yes. Ledger Live can be installed on multiple devices. Your keys remain on the hardware wallet, so it’s safe to connect from different computers as long as they’re malware-free.

What happens if Ledger goes out of business?

Your crypto remains secure. The recovery phrase follows the BIP39 standard and can be restored on any compatible wallet.

Is Bluetooth safe on Ledger Nano X?

Yes. Bluetooth transmits only public data. All sensitive actions are signed inside the device, protected by your PIN and secure element.

10. Security Best Practices

Bookmark ledger.com to avoid phishing.
Enable password lock on your computer and phone.
Never share screenshots of your Ledger Live accounts.
Verify every address on your device before confirming.
Keep your recovery sheet in a separate location from your device.

Following these habits ensures your digital assets remain safe no matter what happens to your computer or online accounts.

11. Troubleshooting and Support

If you encounter any issues, Ledger’s support resources are available through official channels only. Always access help via the Ledger Live app or the official site.

Visit support.ledger.com
Search the knowledge base for device or app-specific issues.
Contact Ledger Support only via the official form.

Security tip: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase, passwords, or remote access to your computer.

12. Conclusion — Your Keys, Your Crypto

By completing setup via Ledger.com/start, you have established a secure foundation for managing your cryptocurrency. Your hardware wallet keeps your private keys offline, isolated from digital threats, while Ledger Live gives you convenient access to portfolio management, updates, and staking features. Remember: security is a continuous habit — keep firmware up to date, verify all actions on-device, and protect your recovery phrase as your ultimate key to ownership.