Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger

Ledger.com/start: A Complete Guide to Getting Started with Ledger Hardware Wallets

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal for users who have purchased a Ledger hardware wallet and want to securely set it up for the first time. Ledger is widely recognized in the cryptocurrency ecosystem for providing hardware wallets that allow users to store, manage, and protect their digital assets offline. The Ledger.com/start page plays a critical role in this process by guiding users step by step through installation, security verification, and wallet configuration.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the only official starting point recommended by Ledger for initializing a new device. Whether you are using a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or another supported Ledger wallet, this page ensures that you follow verified and secure instructions directly from the manufacturer. Using the official setup page is essential because cryptocurrency wallets are frequent targets of phishing attacks and fake setup guides.

The page primarily serves as an entry point to download Ledger Live, verify the authenticity of your device, and learn the correct security practices required to safely manage crypto assets.

Why Ledger Hardware Wallets Matter

Cryptocurrencies are decentralized, meaning there is no bank or central authority to recover funds if access is lost. A Ledger hardware wallet stores private keys offline in a secure element chip, significantly reducing the risk of hacking, malware, or unauthorized access. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, Ledger devices keep your private keys isolated from internet-connected systems.

Ledger.com/start emphasizes self-custody, reminding users that they—and only they—control their assets. This approach aligns with the core philosophy of blockchain technology.

Step One: Visiting Ledger.com/start Safely

When setting up a Ledger device, it is crucial to type the URL manually into your browser rather than clicking on ads or links from emails or social media. Ledger.com/start is the only trusted source for setup instructions. The page will redirect you to the correct version depending on your device model and operating system.

Ledger strongly warns users never to trust third-party websites offering “faster setup” or “pre-configured” wallets, as these are common scams designed to steal recovery phrases.

Step Two: Downloading Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion application used to manage Ledger hardware wallets. From Ledger.com/start, users are directed to download Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. The application allows you to:

  • Install and manage crypto apps on your device
  • Create and manage accounts for different cryptocurrencies
  • Send and receive crypto assets
  • Check balances and transaction history
  • Update firmware securely

Ledger Live acts as the interface between your hardware wallet and the blockchain, while your private keys never leave the device itself.

Step Three: Setting Up a New Device

Once Ledger Live is installed, Ledger.com/start walks users through setting up a new device. This includes connecting the Ledger wallet via USB or Bluetooth (depending on the model) and selecting “Set up as new device.”

During setup, users create a PIN code directly on the Ledger device. This PIN protects the wallet from unauthorized physical access. If the PIN is entered incorrectly multiple times, the device resets automatically to prevent brute-force attacks.

Step Four: Recovery Phrase Generation

One of the most important steps explained on Ledger.com/start is the generation of the recovery phrase, also known as the seed phrase. This is a 24-word phrase displayed only once on the device screen during setup.

Ledger stresses the following rules:

  • Write the recovery phrase down on paper
  • Never take photos or store it digitally
  • Never share it with anyone, including Ledger support
  • Store it in a secure, offline location

The recovery phrase is the master key to all funds associated with the wallet. Anyone with access to it can control the assets, even without the physical device.

Step Five: Verifying Device Authenticity

Ledger.com/start includes a step to verify the authenticity of the device using Ledger Live. This process ensures the hardware wallet has not been tampered with and is running genuine Ledger firmware.

The verification is automatic and cryptographically secure. If a device fails the authenticity check, Ledger Live will alert the user immediately and recommend not proceeding.

Managing Crypto Assets After Setup

After completing the steps on Ledger.com/start, users can begin installing apps for different cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. Each app allows the Ledger device to interact with that specific blockchain.

Users can then create accounts, receive funds, and initiate transactions. All transactions must be physically confirmed on the Ledger device, adding an extra layer of security against malware or remote attacks.

Security Best Practices Highlighted on Ledger.com/start

Ledger.com/start repeatedly emphasizes security awareness. Some of the key best practices include:

  • Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer or phone
  • Ignore emails claiming your assets are “at risk”
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date
  • Buy Ledger devices only from official sources
  • Always v