Ledger.com/start: Your Complete Guide to Setting Up a Ledger Hardware Wallet
Cryptocurrency ownership comes with a major responsibility: protecting your digital assets from online threats. A hardware wallet is one of the safest tools available for crypto storage, and Ledger is one of the world’s leading providers of secure wallet devices. If you recently purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, the first step in the journey is visiting Ledger.com/start, the official onboarding page designed to help you configure your new device safely and correctly. This guide walks you through the entire process, explains key security principles, and highlights what to expect as you set up your Ledger wallet.
What Is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is Ledger’s dedicated setup portal for new users. It provides instructions, download links, and security reminders to ensure that your hardware wallet is initialized in the safest possible way. Because cryptocurrency scams and phishing attacks are widespread, Ledger encourages all users to begin directly from this page rather than relying on unofficial sources or third-party websites. The portal ensures that you install the authentic Ledger Live software and follow the correct setup sequence.
Why Security Matters in Crypto Storage
Cryptocurrencies are stored in digital wallets, but the real security lies in protecting the private keys that control your funds. A hardware wallet stores those private keys offline, making them inaccessible to hackers, viruses, or compromised computers. Software wallets, while convenient, remain connected to the internet and therefore carry greater risk.
Ledger devices are built around secure element chips—similar to what banks and passports use—to keep your private keys fully isolated. When combined with Ledger Live, the ecosystem provides both strong protection and user-friendly asset management.
Step 1: Access the Official Setup Page
To begin, open your browser and type:
Ledger.com/start
Be sure to type the address manually and verify that you are on the official website. Avoid links sent through email, advertising banners, or social media posts. Once the page loads, you will find instructions for your specific device model and a download button for Ledger Live, the companion application required to manage your wallet.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the software interface used to connect with your hardware wallet. You can download it for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android directly from Ledger.com/start. After downloading, install the application as you would any standard program.
When Ledger Live opens, you will see guided steps to help you set up your wallet, choose your device model, and start initializing it. Ledger Live is also where you will later install crypto apps, view balances, stake assets, and execute transactions.
Step 3: Unpack and Connect Your Ledger Wallet
Open your Ledger box and check that it includes the device, USB cable, informational cards, and recovery phrase sheets. Plug the wallet into your computer or mobile device using the USB cable. As soon as it powers on, the device will display instructions on its small screen.
You will be asked whether you want to set up the device as new or restore an existing wallet. Select “Set up as new device” if this is your first time using Ledger.
Step 4: Create a PIN Code
Next, you will create a PIN code. This is the first level of security. The code must be entered every time you use or unlock the device. Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess and that only you will remember. Do not write it down in visible or unsafe places.
If someone tries to access your device and enters the wrong PIN multiple times, the hardware wallet will reset itself to prevent unauthorized access.
Step 5: Secure Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
One of the most important moments in the setup happens now. Your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase, also called a seed phrase. This phrase is the master key to your wallet. Anyone who has it can access your crypto, even without the physical device.
Important rules for your recovery phrase:
Write each word down in the exact order shown
Store it in a safe, offline place
Do not take photos, screenshots, or digital copies
Do not share it with anyone—ever
Ledger will never ask for it
Use the recovery sheets included in the box to record your words neatly and correctly.
Step 6: Confirm the Recovery Phrase
To ensure there are no mistakes, your Ledger wallet will ask you to confirm selected words from the phrase. This verifies that you copied the words accurately. Once confirmed, your device is officially initialized and ready for use.
Step 7: Install Crypto Apps on Your Device
Return to the Ledger Live application. The next step is installing crypto-specific apps onto your Ledger device. Each supported blockchain—such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or XRP—requires its own app.
You only need to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you intend to use. After installing them, add the corresponding accounts in Ledger Live so the app can track your balances and transaction histories.
Step 8: Begin Managing Your Crypto
Your Ledger is now ready. You can send, receive, and manage digital assets directly through Ledger Live, with every transaction requiring confirmation on your hardware wallet. This additional step ensures that no transaction can be approved without your physical authorization, protecting your assets from remote attacks.
When receiving crypto, always double-check the address shown on your Ledger device screen. When sending funds, confirm the amount and address on the device before approving.
Best Practices for Long-Term Security
To keep your assets safe, follow these guidelines:
Always download Ledger Live from the official website
Update your Ledger device firmware regularly
Never share your recovery phrase
Store the recovery phrase in a secure physical location
Beware of fake Ledger support messages or phishing attempts
Final Thoughts
Ledger.com/start is the safest and most reliable entry point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. By following the guided instructions, securing your 24-word recovery phrase, and managing your assets through Ledger Live, you establish a strong foundation for protecting your cryptocurrency holdings. Ledger’s combination of hardware-level security and intuitive software makes it an ideal solution for beginners and experienced users alike.