Ledger.com/Start® | Official Ledger® Wallet Guide™
Ledger.com/start – Official Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
If you’ve purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, your setup journey begins at Ledger.com/start. This is the official onboarding page created by Ledger to help users safely initialize their hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, and secure their cryptocurrency.
Using the official start page is critical to avoid phishing websites and malicious software that attempt to steal recovery phrases or private keys.
What Is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal for all Ledger hardware wallets. It provides:
- Secure download links for Ledger Live
- Step-by-step device setup instructions
- Firmware installation guidance
- Security best practices
- Device authenticity verification
It ensures that new users properly configure their wallet before storing digital assets.
Why Choose a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
Ledger hardware wallets are designed for cold storage, meaning your private keys are stored offline inside the device. This significantly reduces the risk of hacking, phishing, or malware attacks.
Key Benefits:
- Private keys never leave the device
- Physical confirmation for transactions
- PIN code protection
- 24-word recovery phrase backup
- Optional passphrase for extra security
- Support for thousands of cryptocurrencies
Ledger combines security and usability, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Step-by-Step Setup via Ledger.com/start
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Open your browser and manually type:
👉 https://www.ledger.com/start
Always double-check the URL to avoid fake websites.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion application for managing your wallet. It is available for:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- iOS
- Android
Download the version compatible with your device.
Step 3: Install and Open Ledger Live
After installation:
- Launch the app
- Select your Ledger device model
- Follow the on-screen setup instructions
Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the USB cable provided to connect your device to your computer or mobile device (Nano X supports Bluetooth for mobile).
Ledger Live will detect the device automatically.
Step 5: Initialize the Device
You will have two options:
- Set up as new device
- Restore from recovery phrase
If new, select “Set up as new device.”
Step 6: Choose a PIN Code
Create a secure PIN code to protect your device from unauthorized access. You’ll need this PIN each time you connect your wallet.
Step 7: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase.
Important security rules:
- Write the words down in the correct order
- Store them offline in a secure location
- Never share or photograph the phrase
- Never enter it on any website
This phrase is the master backup of your wallet. If lost, your funds cannot be recovered.
Step 8: Verify Device Authenticity
Ledger Live will perform a genuine check to confirm your device is authentic and untampered.
Once verified, your wallet is ready to use.
What You Can Do After Setup
With Ledger Live, you can:
- Add cryptocurrency accounts
- Send and receive crypto
- Buy, sell, and swap assets
- Stake supported cryptocurrencies
- Track portfolio performance
- Install or uninstall crypto apps
All transactions must be confirmed directly on the Ledger device.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Ledger supports thousands of digital assets, including:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Litecoin (LTC)
- Cardano (ADA)
- Solana (SOL)
- ERC-20 tokens
- Many others
The number of apps you can install depends on your device model.
Security Best Practices
To maximize security:
- Only use Ledger.com/start for setup
- Never share your recovery phrase
- Keep firmware updated
- Enable passphrase protection if needed
- Avoid public or shared computers
- Confirm all transactions on the device screen
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase via email or support.
Common Setup Issues
Device Not Recognized
- Try another USB port
- Restart Ledger Live
- Update firmware
Forgot PIN
Reset the device and restore using your recovery phrase.
Ledger Live Not Opening
Reinstall the app from the official website.
Ledger.com/start vs Exchange Wallets
| Feature | Ledger Wallet | Exchange Wallet |
|---|---|---|
| Private Key Control | ✔ User | ✖ Exchange |
| Offline Storage | ✔ | ✖ |
| Risk of Exchange Hack | None | Possible |
| Self-Custody | ✔ | ✖ |
Ledger provides full ownership of your crypto assets.
Final Thoughts
Ledger.com/start is the safest way to begin using your Ledger hardware wallet. By following the official setup instructions, securely storing your recovery phrase, and using Ledger Live properly, you gain full control and strong protection for your digital assets.
For long-term crypto security and self-custody, Ledger remains one of the most trusted hardware wallet solutions available.