Welcome to Ledger.com/start, the official onboarding portal for your Ledger hardware wallet. Follow this secure, step-by-step guide to set up your device, install Ledger Live, and safely manage your crypto assets.
Why Begin at Ledger.com/start?
The setup process is a critical moment for securing your digital assets. Ledger.com/start ensures you:
Download the official, untampered version of Ledger Live.
Initialize your hardware wallet properly and securely.
Backup your recovery phrase in a safe, offline manner.
Avoid phishing or fake setup websites or installers.
Learn best practices to protect your crypto long term.
Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide
Unbox & Inspect
Ensure the packaging is sealed and untampered. Inside, you should find the Ledger hardware wallet (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax), USB cable, recovery sheet, and instructions.
Do **not** use a device already initialized or with a provided recovery phrase.
Visit Ledger.com/start
Open your web browser and go to https://www.ledger.com/start. This is the official setup portal.
Avoid using search engine links or third-party mirrors to reduce phishing risk.
Download & Install Ledger Live
From the start page, download the correct version of Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile (iOS, Android).
Run the installer and follow on‑screen instructions to set up the app.
Connect & Initialize Your Device
Plug your Ledger wallet into your computer or mobile device (via USB or Bluetooth, if your model supports it).
In Ledger Live, choose “Set up as new device.” The app will guide you through:
Creating a secure PIN code (4–8 digits).
Displaying a 24‑word recovery phrase on the device screen.
Writing down the recovery phrase (on the supplied sheet) in correct order.
Confirming the recovery phrase by selecting words on the device.
Install Cryptocurrency Apps & Add Accounts
After initialization, open Ledger Live’s **Manager** section.
Install apps for the blockchains you wish to use (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
Then, go to **Accounts → Add Account** to link your device’s public keys and make your wallet active.
Start Using Your Wallet
With the setup complete, you can:
Send and receive crypto securely (verify every transaction on your device).
Manage multiple accounts and view portfolio performance.
Use integrated swap / buy features (via licensed partners).
Interact with Web3 apps (DeFi, NFTs) using your Ledger as key signer.
Important: Ledger **will never** ask you for your recovery phrase or PIN. If any website or person does, that is a scam—stop immediately.
Security Tips & Best Practices
Always verify you’ve downloaded Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start.
Never store your recovery phrase in digital form (screenshots, email, cloud).
Write your recovery phrase in multiple secure physical locations if possible.
After setup, check firmware updates in Ledger Live and install them.
Confirm transaction details (amount, destination) on your Ledger device screen—not just in the app.
Enable passphrase (advanced users) to add an optional “25th word” of security.
Use a trusted machine (with antivirus / OS updates) for initial setup.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Device not detected: Try a different USB cable or port; ensure OS drivers are up to date.
Recovery phrase mismatch: Retry confirming, ensure you wrote words in exact order.
Ledger Live installation fails: Re-download from official site, run as administrator, or disable conflicting software.
PIN forgotten: Reset the device (this erases it) and recover with your recovery phrase.
Firmware update failure: Use recovery mode or re-install firmware via Ledger Live’s support tools.