Ledger.com/Start

Why Use Ledger.com/Start?

With the rise of digital assets, security has never been more important. Ledger is a leading name in hardware wallets—which keep your private keys offline, safe from malware, phishing and other online threats. The URL Ledger.com/Start is your trusted starting point to properly initialize your Ledger device, download the official Ledger Live application, and follow verified instructions.

Using unofficial guides or apps can expose you to risk. Counterfeit devices, jars of fake recovery phrases, and phishing sites are a threat. Starting securely ensures your crypto stays in your control.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

• Ledger hardware wallet (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other genuine Ledger device)
• USB cable (included in box) or Bluetooth for supported devices
• Computer or mobile device (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android or iOS) with internet access
• Official Ledger Live application to be downloaded only from Ledger.com/Start
• Pen and the recovery phrase card (or multiple backups) to write down your 24‑word recovery phrase by hand
• A quiet, private place to perform setup and secure your recovery phrase away from cameras or strangers

Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide

1. Visit the Official Portal: Type https://www.ledger.com/start directly in your browser. Bookmark for future reference. Don’t click through random search results or links from strangers.
2. Download Ledger Live: From the Ledger.com/Start page, select your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and download the official Ledger Live app.
3. Unbox and Inspect Device: Confirm that your Ledger device is sealed and untampered with. It should not come pre‑initialized. If packaging looks damaged, contact Ledger support.
4. Connect the Device: Plug in your device with USB cable (or Bluetooth if applicable), turn it on, and allow Ledger Live to detect it.
5. Initialize Device: Choose “Set up as new device” if this is your first time. If you are restoring an existing wallet, use the recovery phrase.
6. Choose PIN Code: Select a PIN (4‑8 digits) on your Ledger device. This PIN protects access to your wallet if someone has your physical device. Memorize it. Do not store it digitally.
7. Generate and Record Recovery Phrase: Your device will present a 24‑word recovery (seed) phrase. Write down each word in order on the recovery sheet. Do not photograph, screenshot, or store digitally.
8. Confirm Recovery Phrase: To ensure accuracy, Ledger will ask you to select words or enter them via device interface in the correct order. This confirms you have recorded them properly.
9. Firmware & Authenticity Check: Ledger Live often checks firmware and device authenticity. Only accept firmware updates via the app when prompted and verify the genuine check display on your device.
10. Install Crypto Apps: In Ledger Live’s Manager tab, install apps corresponding to the coins or tokens you want to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
11. Add Crypto Accounts: After installing apps, add accounts via Ledger Live. These accounts allow you to receive, send, track balances, and manage assets.
12. Complete Setup: Ensure everything is working: test a small receive transaction, check that the balances show correctly, and confirm transaction signing works.

After Setup: Using Your Ledger Wallet

Receiving Crypto

In Ledger Live, choose “Receive” for the cryptocurrency you want. Confirm the receiving address on your Ledger device’s screen (not just on your computer), then share that address with the sender. Always verify the address physically on the device.

Sending Crypto

To send funds, open the “Send” tab in Ledger Live, enter the recipient address and the amount, review fees, and then confirm on your Ledger device. The device’s screen is the final authority for confirming addresses, amounts, and fees.

Managing Multiple Assets & Apps

Ledger supports a wide range of coins & tokens. Use Ledger Live Manager to install necessary coin apps, then add accounts. Your portfolio overview will show total balances, recent transactions, and projected value in fiat.

NFTs and DeFi

If you hold NFTs (especially on Ethereum or compatible chains), Ledger Live often offers a way to view these. For advanced DeFi operations or less common chains, you may need compatible third‑party integrations, but always ensure you never share your recovery phrase with any third party.

Security Guidelines & Best Practices

• Always start at Ledger.com/Start to download the official Ledger Live app and setup instructions. Phishing sites often mimic this page. (Source: Official Ledger guidance) :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
• Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it. Treat it like the master key to your funds. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Write down the recovery phrase by hand, on physical media; avoid storing digitally. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Verify authenticity of your device via Ledger Live genuine check (firmware‑based check). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Keep your Ledger Live software and device firmware up to date. Ledger regularly issues updates. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Set a strong PIN code, and protect the device from unauthorized access. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• When sending or receiving, always verify transaction details on device screen, not only on computer display. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Store recovery phrase securely: fireproof, waterproof safe if possible, more than one copy in secure locations. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Never click unsolicited links claiming to be support; always navigate via ledger.com/start for official resources. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)