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

Managing cryptocurrency securely is more important than ever, and hardware wallets remain one of the safest ways to store digital assets. Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal for Ledger devices, guiding both beginners and experienced users through installation, initialization, and secure management of their crypto. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or are new to Ledger altogether, this step-by-step guide will help you begin safely and confidently.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page created by Ledger, designed to help users activate their hardware wallets while avoiding phishing or fake websites. From this page, you can access:

  • The official Ledger Live app download
  • Device setup instructions
  • Firmware update guides
  • Crypto management tutorials

Using the correct starting point is crucial in crypto security, as many scams mimic official sites. Always ensure you are accessing the authentic URL: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device

Inside your Ledger package, you should find:

  • Your Ledger Nano device
  • A USB cable
  • Recovery phrase sheets
  • Instructions and documentation

Check the packaging to make sure it is intact. Ledger devices are built with strict anti-tampering protections, but it’s still wise to verify everything looks legitimate.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live from the Official Source

Ledger Live is the central dashboard for managing your device and crypto accounts. It is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

  1. Visit Ledger.com/start
  2. Select your device model
  3. Download Ledger Live for your operating system
  4. Install and launch the application

Never download Ledger Live from third-party sites, pop-ups, or online ads.

Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live opens, follow the on-screen instructions:

Create a New Wallet

If this is your first time using a Ledger device:

  • Power on your Ledger
  • Choose “Set up as new device”
  • Create a PIN code
  • Back up your 24-word recovery phrase

Your recovery phrase is the most important element of your wallet. Write it on paper, store it offline, and never share it digitally.

Restore an Existing Wallet

If you previously had a Ledger or need to recover your assets:

  • Select “Restore wallet”
  • Enter your 24-word recovery phrase in the exact order

Ledger will recreate your private keys based on your phrase.

Step 4: Confirm and Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger Live will guide you to verify that you wrote your phrase correctly. This is not optional—it's a vital safety step.

Remember:
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase online. If any website, email, or person requests it, assume it is a scam.

Step 5: Install Apps and Add Crypto Accounts

With your wallet set up, you can now add crypto assets.

  1. Open Ledger Live
  2. Go to “My Ledger”
  3. Install the apps for the coins you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
  4. Add accounts for each cryptocurrency

Each app enables secure key management for that asset on your hardware device.

Step 6: Buy, Receive, and Send Crypto Safely

Ledger Live allows you to manage your crypto with your hardware wallet acting as the secure signing device.

  • Receive Crypto: Generate your receiving address and verify it on your Ledger screen before sharing.
  • Send Crypto: Enter the destination address in Ledger Live and confirm the details on the physical device.
  • Buy or Swap: Ledger partners with trusted providers for seamless purchasing and swapping inside Ledger Live.

Because your private keys stay offline, every transaction remains protected against online threats.

Step 7: Keep Firmware Updated

Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve security and functionality. You can update safely through Ledger Live under the “My Ledger” section.

Always confirm firmware prompts originate from Ledger Live and not from external websites.

Final Tips for Safe Crypto Management

  • Bookmark Ledger.com/start to avoid phishing links.
  • Never photograph or type your recovery phrase.
  • Use a strong PIN and avoid entering it in public.
  • Keep Ledger Live updated.
  • Only buy Ledger hardware from the official store or authorized retailers.