Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger Wallet Setup Guide
Welcome to the ultimate beginner-friendly guide on how to get started with your Ledger hardware wallet using Ledger.com/Start. Whether you're a complete newcomer to crypto security or an experienced investor searching for the safest method to store your digital assets, this guide walks you step-by-step through the setup, installation, security essentials, and best practices for using Ledger devices.
Why Ledger? The Importance of Secure Crypto Storage
Cryptocurrencies offer financial freedom — but they also demand serious security. Unlike traditional banking systems with centralized protection, crypto ownership places full responsibility on you. This is where Ledger comes in. Ledger hardware wallets, such as the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X, are widely regarded as the safest way to store private keys offline through a method called cold storage.
When you use Ledger.com/Start®, you're accessing the official onboarding portal designed to help users securely activate their Ledger devices without risking exposure to phishing sites or fake software. Your private keys never leave the hardware wallet, and this physical barrier ensures attackers cannot remotely access your funds.
What You Need Before Beginning Setup
Before heading to Ledger.com/Start to activate your device, make sure you have:
Your brand-new Ledger Nano device (Nano S Plus or Nano X).
The USB cable provided in the box.
A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile device (for Nano X via Bluetooth).
A stable internet connection.
Your recovery sheet (included in the package).
Enough time to complete the setup carefully — usually 10–20 minutes.
Step-By-Step Guide to Using Ledger.com/Start®
1. Visit the Official Ledger Start Page
Begin by navigating to the official onboarding page: https://www.ledger.com/start
⚠️ Always enter this URL manually — never click unknown links or ads promoting Ledger downloads.
2. Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official application for managing your crypto assets, updating firmware, and installing blockchain apps. Ledger.com/Start® will detect your operating system and provide the correct download link.
After downloading, install Ledger Live and open the application. Ledger Live will guide you through initialization, connection, and device configuration.
3. Choose “Set up a new device” in Ledger Live
If your Ledger is brand new, choose “Set up a new device”. If you're recovering a previously used wallet, choose “Restore from recovery phrase.”
4. Set Up a PIN Code
Your hardware wallet will ask you to create a secure PIN (4–8 digits). This PIN is essential — anyone who gets your device cannot access it without the PIN.
Security Tip:
Never share your PIN with anyone.
Avoid easy combinations like “0000” or “1234.”
5. Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
This is the most important step of your Ledger setup. Your device will display a unique 24-word recovery phrase. Write the words on the provided recovery sheets exactly as shown.
⚠️ Never:
Take pictures of your recovery phrase.
Type it into your phone or computer.
Store it in email, cloud services, or digital notes.
This phrase is the only backup of your crypto wallet. If your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged, the recovery phrase allows you to restore access to your coins. If you lose it or someone else gets it, your funds are gone forever.
6. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
Ledger will ask you to confirm specific words from your recovery phrase to ensure accuracy. This step prevents mistakes that could lead to unrecoverable wallets later.
7. Install Crypto Apps Using Ledger Live
After the setup is complete, open Ledger Live and go to the “My Ledger” section to install blockchain apps such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or others. Each cryptocurrency requires its corresponding app to be installed on the device.
Once installed, you can create accounts inside Ledger Live for each asset. These accounts allow you to send, receive, and manage crypto securely.
8. Add Accounts and Begin Receiving Crypto
To receive cryptocurrency, select the asset you want, click “Receive,” and connect your Ledger device. Ledger Live will display your wallet address, which you must verify on the hardware screen before sharing it.
This “verify on device” feature ensures you are protected from address-replacement malware.
9. Send Crypto Safely
When sending crypto, always verify the transaction address on the Ledger screen before approving it. This eliminates the risk of malicious interference on your computer.
Advanced Ledger Features You Should Know
Firmware Updates
Ledger regularly updates firmware to enhance security. You can safely update through Ledger Live, but only if your recovery phrase is written down securely. Updates require the device to restart and reconnect.
Staking & Earning
Ledger Live supports staking for multiple cryptocurrencies, such as Polkadot, Ethereum, and Tezos. This allows you to earn passive income while still maintaining custody of your assets in your hardware wallet.
Ledger Live Buy & Sell Services
You can buy, sell, and swap crypto directly through Ledger Live using Ledger-approved third-party providers. This ensures you avoid untrusted platforms and maintain strong security practices.
Ledger Nano X Bluetooth Feature
The Nano X includes secure Bluetooth connectivity for use with smartphones. This feature does not expose your private keys; all critical operations remain isolated within the device’s secure element.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced users can make errors. Here are the most common ones:
Using outdated or fake software not downloaded from Ledger.com/Start®.
Storing the recovery phrase digitally.
Sharing wallet information with “support agents” — Ledger NEVER contacts users asking for keys.
Ignoring firmware updates.
Buying Ledger devices from unofficial resellers (risk of tampering).
If you avoid these pitfalls, your crypto assets will remain safe and secure.
How Ledger.com/Start® Protects Users
The Ledger.com/Start portal exists primarily to help users avoid phishing attacks. Cybercriminals often create fake pages pretending to be Ledger support, tricking people into entering their recovery phrases.
By using the official Ledger.com/Start page, you ensure that you:
Download Ledger Live from a verified source
Follow trusted setup instructions
Activate real security checks
Avoid malicious browser redirects
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ledger Safe?
Yes. Ledger uses a certified secure element (CC EAL5+), making it one of the safest hardware wallets available.
What if I lose my Ledger device?
As long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on another Ledger or compatible hardware wallet.
Can Ledger employees access my crypto?
No. Your private keys never leave the device and are never known by Ledger.
Can I use Ledger for NFTs?
Yes, Ledger Live supports Ethereum and other chains for secure NFT storage.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Crypto Security Journey Today
Using Ledger.com/Start® is the safest and most efficient way to begin your Ledger hardware wallet setup. With cybercrime and digital asset theft on the rise, self-custody is more important than ever. Ledger empowers you to take control of your crypto with unmatched security and user-friendly tools.
Whether you're safeguarding Bitcoin, managing NFTs, staking assets, or simply preparing your long-term investment strategy, Ledger gives you the confidence that your private keys are protected with state-of-the-art security technology.
Secure your future. Protect your crypto. Start today with Ledger.com/Start®.