Getting Started with Ledger: A Complete Guide to Ledger.com/start
Managing cryptocurrency safely begins with choosing a secure wallet. Ledger, one of the most trusted hardware wallet manufacturers in the world, provides a reliable way to store digital assets offline. If you have purchased a Ledger device such as the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, your next step is to set up the device through the official onboarding page: Ledger.com/start. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to begin using your Ledger hardware wallet with confidence.
What Is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal provided by Ledger. It offers step-by-step instructions to guide you through initializing your Ledger hardware wallet, installing Ledger Live, and securing your recovery phrase. The page ensures users follow the correct setup process and avoid fraudulent websites. Because cryptocurrencies carry significant value and are frequent targets of cyber threats, using the official Ledger website is critical for protecting your assets.
Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
A Ledger device stores your private keys in a secure chip that is isolated from the internet. This keeps your digital assets safe from online attacks, phishing attempts, and malware. While software wallets may be convenient, they cannot match the security level of a hardware wallet. Ledger wallets support thousands of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Litecoin, and many tokens across multiple networks.
By pairing your device with Ledger Live, you gain access to portfolio management, transactions, staking options, and seamless asset tracking—all through a user-friendly interface.
Step 1: Visit the Official Setup Page
Before doing anything with your new device, open your browser and go to:
Ledger.com/start
Make sure the URL is correct. Do not click on links from emails, ads, or social media posts. Typing the address manually helps avoid phishing attempts. The setup page will direct you to download Ledger Live, the companion app required to manage your hardware wallet.
Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Once you download the application, follow the on-screen prompts to install it. After installation, open Ledger Live and select the “Get Started” option. The app will guide you through choosing your device model and preparing it for use.
Ledger Live is essential because it allows you to install apps for specific cryptocurrencies, manage accounts, send and receive assets, and check your balance in real time. It is important to always download it from Ledger’s official website to avoid counterfeit versions.
Step 3: Unbox and Connect Your Ledger Device
Inside your Ledger box, you will find the hardware wallet, a USB cable, instruction sheets, and recovery phrase cards. Connect your device to your computer or mobile device using the cable provided. After connecting, the Ledger screen will turn on and display instructions.
The device will ask if you want to set it up as a new device or restore an existing one. If this is your first Ledger, choose “Set up as new device.”
Step 4: Create a PIN Code
Next, you will be asked to choose a PIN code. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. You must enter this PIN every time the device is powered on. Choose a code that is difficult to guess but easy for you to remember. Never share your PIN with anyone.
If you enter the wrong PIN too many times, the device will reset. This security feature ensures that your wallet cannot be accessed even if the device is stolen.
Step 5: Secure Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
After creating your PIN, the Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the most important part of your wallet setup.
Your recovery phrase:
– Restores access to your crypto if the device is lost or damaged
– Must be written down carefully and stored offline
– Should never be photographed, typed, or saved on a computer or cloud storage
– Must never be shared with anyone, not even Ledger support
Ledger will provide recovery phrase cards in the box. Write the words exactly in order. Double-check every spelling. If you ever lose access to your device, this phrase will allow you to recover your assets on a new Ledger device.
Step 6: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
To ensure you wrote it correctly, the Ledger device will ask you to confirm certain words from your 24-word phrase. This step is crucial for avoiding mistakes that could cause loss of funds.
Once the confirmation is complete, your device setup is finished.
Step 7: Install Crypto Apps and Add Accounts
Return to Ledger Live and continue the setup. Depending on which cryptocurrencies you plan to use, you will need to install specific apps on your Ledger device. For example, to manage Bitcoin, install the Bitcoin app. To manage Ethereum, install the Ethereum app.
After installing apps, add accounts for each cryptocurrency. These accounts allow Ledger Live to track balances and transaction history.
Step 8: Send and Receive Crypto Safely
Now your Ledger is ready to use. You can receive crypto by sharing your public address (never your private keys). When sending crypto, always confirm transaction details on the Ledger device screen before approving.
The hardware wallet verifies the transaction independently of your computer, ensuring high-level security.
Final Tips for Staying Secure
– Always use Ledger Live from the official website
– Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
– Keep your device firmware updated
– Store your recovery phrase in a safe, offline location
– Beware of phishing emails pretending to be Ledger
Conclusion
Ledger.com/start is the safest and most reliable place to set up your Ledger hardware wallet. By following the official instructions and securing your recovery phrase, you gain full control of your digital assets with industry-leading security. Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or experienced in blockchain technology, Ledger provides a trustworthy foundation for managing your assets with confidence.