Ledger.com/start | Getting Started with Ledger Hardware Wallet
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page for Ledger hardware wallets such as the Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, and Nano X. It provides new users with step-by-step instructions for safely setting up their device, connecting it to Ledger Live, and securing their cryptocurrency assets.
Why Official Setup Matters
Using Ledger.com/start ensures that your wallet setup is secure. By following official instructions:
- Recovery phrases are generated securely on the device
- All sensitive operations happen offline on the Ledger hardware wallet
- You download Ledger Live from verified sources only
- Risk of phishing or malware attacks is minimized
Step 1: Unboxing and Inspecting Your Ledger Device
- Ensure the packaging is sealed and untampered
- Inspect the device for physical damage or irregularities
- Locate accessories such as USB cable, manual, and recovery sheet
Never use a device if the packaging seems suspicious.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official software for managing your cryptocurrency. It is available for:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- iOS
- Android
Ledger Live allows you to initialize the device, add cryptocurrency accounts, send and receive funds, monitor your portfolio, and update firmware.
Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Wallet
Initialization prepares your device for secure use. You can either create a new wallet or recover an existing wallet.
Creating a New Wallet
- Power on the Ledger device
- Follow on-screen prompts to set up
- Choose a PIN code
- Generate a 24-word recovery phrase
Recovery Phrase
- The recovery phrase is the only backup of your wallet
- Write it down on the provided recovery sheet
- Never store it digitally (no photos, screenshots, or cloud storage)
- Keep it offline and secure
Security Best Practices
- Confirm all steps on the device screen
- Never share your recovery phrase
- PIN protects your wallet if the device is lost or stolen
Step 4: Connecting Ledger to Ledger Live
- Open Ledger Live
- Connect your device via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X)
- Enter your PIN on the device
- Confirm connection requests on the device screen
Ledger Live will detect your device and allow you to add accounts.
Step 5: Adding Accounts and Managing Assets
Ledger Live supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, and ERC-20 tokens. After connecting:
- Add the accounts you want to manage
- Monitor balances and transaction history
- Send and receive crypto while verifying addresses on the device screen
Step 6: Firmware Updates
- Check the current firmware version
- Download official updates through Ledger Live
- Confirm updates directly on the hardware wallet
Keeping firmware updated enhances security and compatibility.
Step 7: Safety and Security Best Practices
- Never share your recovery phrase
- Verify addresses and transactions on the device screen
- Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated
- Download Ledger Live only from official sources
- Ignore messages claiming your Ledger is “locked” or “compromised”
Step 8: Recovering a Lost Ledger Device
- Obtain a new Ledger device
- Select “Recover wallet” during setup
- Enter your 24-word recovery phrase on the new device
- Access your funds immediately
Funds exist on the blockchain and are not stored on the device itself.
Step 9: Advanced Features
- Portfolio tracking
- Sending and receiving crypto across multiple accounts
- Integration with decentralized apps (dApps)
- Staking certain cryptocurrencies
- Secure device management
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Device not detected: Check USB cable or Bluetooth connection
- Firmware update errors: Restart Ledger Live and retry
- PIN or recovery issues: Follow official Ledger support guides
Summary
Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for new Ledger users. It guides you through downloading Ledger Live, initializing your hardware wallet, setting up PINs and recovery phrases, and managing cryptocurrency accounts. Following official instructions ensures full control of your assets, offline key storage, and protection against phishing or malware.
With Ledger.com/start®, your cryptocurrency journey begins securely, with your Ledger hardware wallet at the center of your digital asset management.