Ledger.com/Start — Official Setup Guide for Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Welcome to Ledger.com/start, the official starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. If you’ve just purchased a Ledger device, this is where your secure crypto journey begins. Proper setup ensures your digital assets remain protected from hackers, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access.

Ledger hardware wallets are trusted worldwide because they store private keys offline, keeping them isolated from internet-based threats. By following the instructions at Ledger.com/start, you guarantee a secure and authentic setup process.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

Cryptocurrency ownership comes with responsibility. If your private keys are exposed, your funds can be stolen permanently. Ledger devices solve this problem by storing your keys inside a secure hardware chip.

Key benefits include:

  • Offline private key storage
  • Secure transaction confirmation on-device
  • Protection against malware and phishing
  • Support for thousands of coins and tokens
  • Reliable backup and recovery system

Unlike exchange wallets, Ledger gives you full control over your crypto assets.

Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Device

Before starting setup, carefully inspect your Ledger device and packaging. Ledger devices do not come with pre-written recovery phrases. If you find a recovery sheet already filled in, do not use the device.

Inside the box, you should find:

  • Ledger hardware wallet
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheets
  • Instruction manual

Make sure everything appears new and untampered before proceeding.

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/Start

Using your computer or mobile device, open your browser and go directly to Ledger.com/start. This is the official setup page and ensures you download authentic software.

Avoid clicking on ads or third-party links claiming to offer Ledger setup downloads. Always manually type the website address to prevent phishing attacks.

The website will guide you to download Ledger Live, the official companion application.

Step 3: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the secure application used to manage your Ledger device. It allows you to:

  • Install cryptocurrency apps
  • Send and receive assets
  • View balances and transaction history
  • Update device firmware

Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android). Install it and open the application to begin setup.

Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live is open, connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the USB cable.

You will have two options:

Set Up as New Device

Choose this if you are using your Ledger for the first time. The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is your wallet backup.

Write the words down carefully in the correct order on the recovery sheet provided. Store it in a secure offline location.

Restore from Recovery Phrase

If you previously owned a Ledger device, you can recover access by entering your 24-word recovery phrase directly into the device.

Never enter your recovery phrase into a website or computer. It should only be entered on the Ledger device itself.

Step 5: Create a Secure PIN Code

Next, you will set a PIN code on your Ledger device. This PIN is required each time the device is connected.

Choose a PIN that:

  • Is difficult for others to guess
  • Is not reused from other accounts
  • You can remember easily

If someone steals your device but does not know your PIN or recovery phrase, they cannot access your funds.

Step 6: Install Cryptocurrency Apps

After initialization, you can install cryptocurrency apps through Ledger Live. Each app allows your device to manage a specific blockchain.

For example:

  • Bitcoin app for BTC
  • Ethereum app for ETH and ERC-20 tokens
  • Other supported crypto apps

You can install or remove apps anytime without affecting your stored assets.

Step 7: Add Accounts and Start Transacting

Once apps are installed, add accounts inside Ledger Live. From there, you can:

  • Generate wallet addresses
  • Send and receive cryptocurrency
  • Monitor your portfolio
  • Review transaction history

Every outgoing transaction must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device. This prevents malware from altering transaction details.

Keep Your Ledger Secure

Security does not stop after setup. Follow these best practices:

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Never store your recovery phrase digitally
  • Only download Ledger software from Ledger.com/start
  • Keep your firmware updated
  • Beware of phishing emails pretending to be Ledger support

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Firmware Updates and Maintenance

Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve security and performance. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available.

Installing updates ensures:

  • Protection against new vulnerabilities
  • Improved stability
  • Access to new features

Always verify instructions directly within Ledger Live before confirming updates.

Take Control of Your Crypto

By starting at Ledger.com/start, you ensure your Ledger device is configured safely and correctly. Hardware wallets provide one of the highest levels of protection available for cryptocurrency holders.

With offline key storage, secure chip technology, and on-device verification, Ledger empowers you to take full ownership of your digital assets.