Ledger.com/Start — The Official Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet

Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding and setup portal provided by Ledger — one of the most trusted hardware wallet makers in the world. Whether you’re unboxing your first Ledger hardware wallet like the Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or Ledger Stax, this portal is your first and most important destination to ensure a safe, secure, and smooth setup experience for your crypto assets.

Why Start at Ledger.com/Start?

Security Comes First

In the world of cryptocurrency, self-custody — meaning you control your private keys — is one of the strongest protections against hacks, loss, or centralized failures. Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys offline (in cold storage), drastically reducing exposure to malware, phishing, or exchange breaches. However, even the most secure hardware needs a secure initial setup process. Ledger.com/Start ensures that every step you take — from software download to wallet initialization — happens in a trusted environment.

Using unofficial setup links, fake Ledger clones, or random third-party pages exposes you to scams that target unsuspecting users. Always verify you are on https://www.ledger.com/start before entering any setup steps.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Before visiting Ledger.com/Start and starting the setup process, make sure you have:

• Your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Ledger Stax, etc.).
• A computer or mobile device (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS).
• The USB cable included with your Ledger device (for Nano S / Nano S Plus).
• A safe and private place to write down your 24-word recovery phrase.
• A secure surface where you won’t be disturbed during setup.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

1. Visit the Official Start Page

Open your web browser and type in https://www.ledger.com/start. Do not use search engine links or links sent by email/social media — scammers often mimic official URLs to deceive users.

Once there, you’ll see options to choose your Ledger device and begin setup.

2. Unbox and Verify Your Device

Before powering on the device, inspect the packaging carefully:

• Ensure the box is sealed and untampered.
• There should be no pre-filled recovery phrase included — Ledger devices never come with a recovery phrase card already filled out.
• If anything looks suspicious, do not proceed; contact Ledger support before moving forward.

3. Download Ledger Live (Official Software)

Ledger Live is the official application from Ledger that connects to your hardware wallet and allows you to manage your crypto assets securely — including sending, receiving, staking, and tracking your portfolio.

From the start page you will be directed to download Ledger Live for your device:

• Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Mobile: Android, iOS

Never download Ledger Live from unofficial sources — only use links provided directly on the Ledger.com/Start page.

4. Initialize Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live is installed and you’ve connected your Ledger device:

1. Choose “Set up as new device” if this is your first wallet.
2. Your device will prompt you to choose a PIN code (typically 4–8 digits). This PIN protects your wallet if the device is lost or stolen.
3. The device will then generate a 24-word recovery phrase — this is the critical backup of your wallet. Write it only on the recovery sheet provided and never type or photograph it.

⚠️ This recovery phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if your Ledger device is lost or damaged.

5. Verify and Connect with Ledger Live

After initial setup:

• Open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Ledger Live will verify the device’s firmware and authenticity directly with Ledger’s secure servers.

This step ensures you have genuine firmware and not a compromised device.

6. Install Cryptocurrency Apps on Your Device

One of Ledger’s unique strengths is that each blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) uses a separate app installed on your device:

• In Ledger Live, go to the Manager tab.
• Install the apps for the blockchains you want to use.
• Each app enables support for its respective coins and tokens.

Apps generally take only a few seconds to install.

7. Add Accounts and Manage Assets

With apps installed:

• Add accounts for the assets you hold (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
• Use the Receive feature to generate secure addresses — always verify these addresses on the physical Ledger screen before sending funds.

Ledger Live displays your portfolio in one dashboard, showing balances, transaction history, and valuation.

Security Best Practices

Protect Your Recovery Phrase

• Never enter your recovery phrase on any website or software.
• Store it offline — ideally in multiple secure locations or on metal backups.

Verify Every Action on Device Hardware

Every transaction or critical operation must be confirmed physically on your Ledger device, ensuring malware on your computer cannot mislead you.

Beware of Phishing Attempts

Scammers often send fake emails, SMS, or clones of Ledger websites. Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase or send you unsolicited setup links.

Common Questions (FAQ)

Is Ledger.com/Start safe to use?

Yes — it’s the official setup page provided by Ledger to guide secure device initialization.

Can I restore my wallet if I lose my device?

Yes. Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger device.

Do I need internet to use Ledger?

You need an internet connection for Ledger Live to synchronize blockchain data, but the private keys remain offline on the device itself.

Can I use Ledger with multiple computers?

Yes — your device and recovery phrase are portable across installations of Ledger Live.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/Start is more than a setup page — it’s your gateway to securely entering the world of true crypto self-custody. By following its verified, step-by-step process, you ensure your hardware wallet is authentic, your private keys remain protected, and your digital assets are managed safely and confidently.