Ledger.com/Start

Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide — Secure Your Crypto from Day One

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

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.
Go to Ledger.com/Start

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if I lose my Ledger device?

If your device is lost or damaged, you can restore your wallet (and all its assets) using your 24‑word recovery phrase. Without that phrase, access cannot be restored. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

What if I forget my PIN?

If you forget your PIN, the device can be reset and then restored using your recovery phrase. This means you need to have kept that phrase safe. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Can I use Ledger without Ledger Live?

Some advanced users may use third‑party integrations, but Ledger Live is the recommended and supported way to manage most coins and firmware. Using unofficial tools can expose you to risk. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

How many cryptocurrencies are supported?

Ledger supports thousands of currencies and tokens. Supported assets grow over time. You can install specific coin apps via Ledger Live Manager. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}