Ledger.com/start – Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
When you’re ready to take full control of your crypto, securing your assets with a hardware wallet is one of the most important steps you can take. Ledger devices—such as the Ledger Nano S Plus or the Ledger Nano X—offer advanced protection using secure-element chips and offline private key storage.
If you’re new to Ledger, your journey typically begins at Ledger.com/start. This guide walks you through what to expect, how to get set up, and best practices for keeping your crypto safe.
What Is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official entry point provided by Ledger to help new users:
Set up their hardware wallet
Download the Ledger Live app
Install crypto apps on their device
Learn security fundamentals
Start receiving, sending, and managing assets
It’s designed as a beginner-friendly hub that ensures you’re following the correct steps from the moment you unbox your device.
Important: Always double-check that you are visiting the correct domain (Ledger.com). Never trust look-alike URLs.
Unboxing Your Ledger Device
When you open your Ledger hardware wallet box, you should see:
The Ledger device
USB cable
Recovery sheet cards
Instructions card
Keychain or accessories (depending on model)
Ledger devices never come with a pre-written recovery phrase. If you find one in the box, stop using the device immediately—it’s a scam.
Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/start
Your first task is to head to the official onboarding link. There, you’ll find:
Download links for Ledger Live (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android)
Video guides
Step-by-step walkthroughs for each Ledger model
Security warnings and best practices
Ledger Live is the companion software required to manage your device and your accounts.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is a powerful desktop and mobile app that allows you to:
Update firmware
Install or remove crypto apps
Manage crypto accounts
Purchase, swap, and stake supported assets
Track your portfolio performance
For security, always download it directly from Ledger.com/start—not from third-party sites.
Step 3: Set Up Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live downloads, you’ll be guided through the setup.
Create a New Wallet
If the device is brand new, choose “Set up as new device.”
You’ll then:
Choose a PIN code
Your PIN protects access to your device. Never share it.
Write down your Recovery Phrase (24 words)
Your recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto.
Write all 24 words manually on the provided recovery sheet.
Never take photos or store it digitally.
Never type it on any website or computer.
Keep it saved in a secure physical location.
Confirm the phrase
The device will ask you to verify the words to ensure accuracy.
Step 4: Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts
Each cryptocurrency has its own app that must be installed on your Ledger device. Ledger Live allows you to install:
Bitcoin
Ethereum
Solana
XRP
Litecoin
Polygon
And 1,000+ other assets
After installing apps, you can add accounts to Ledger Live. This allows you to:
Send coins
Receive coins
View balances
Track your portfolio
All transactions must be approved on the hardware device itself, adding a critical layer of security.
Step 5: Secure Your Ledger and Crypto
Security doesn’t end once the device is set up. Follow these best practices:
1. Never share your recovery phrase
Not with support agents, websites, apps, or friends.
If someone has your 24 words, they can take your crypto.
2. Update firmware regularly
Firmware updates include security improvements and new features. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available.
3. Beware of phishing
Common fake domains include:
legder.com
ledgerlive.io
ledger.support
Always check the correct domain: Ledger.com
4. Use genuine accessories
Only use official Ledger cables and accessories to avoid tampering risks.
5. Store your backup safely
Use a fireproof safe or metal recovery phrase backup options.
Why So Many Users Trust Ledger
Ledger is a leading name in crypto security because:
Private keys never leave the device
Secure Element chips protect against physical attacks
BOLOS operating system isolates each app
Open-source software provides transparency
Ledger Live provides an all-in-one portfolio experience
Whether you’re storing Bitcoin for the long term, staking Ethereum, or diversifying into altcoins, Ledger offers a secure foundation.
Troubleshooting and Support
If you encounter issues:
Try reconnecting the device
Update Ledger Live
Update firmware
Restart your computer
Consult Ledger’s official support center
Only contact support through Ledger.com/support.
Never trust unsolicited messages on Telegram, Discord, or email.
Final Thoughts
Starting with Ledger.com/start ensures you are following secure, official steps to set up your hardware wallet. A Ledger device gives you true ownership and control of your crypto—far beyond what centralized exchanges can offer.
Staying safe in the crypto world means understanding that you are your own bank. Protect your recovery phrase, verify everything, and always use official Ledger resources.