Ledger.com/start – Complete Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet

Cryptocurrency security is more important than ever, and Ledger hardware wallets are among the safest tools available to store digital assets. If you’ve recently purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or any other Ledger device, the official setup process begins at Ledger.com/start. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to safely initialize your wallet, protect your recovery phrase, install Ledger Live, and start managing your crypto with confidence.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal created by Ledger to help new users configure their hardware wallet step by step. It ensures that you download the legitimate Ledger Live software, follow security best practices, and verify that your device is genuine. Using the official site is extremely important because Ledger devices protect your cryptocurrency, and interacting with fake websites can lead to loss of funds. Always type the URL directly into your browser and never trust unofficial links.

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect Your Ledger Device

Before beginning the setup, carefully unbox your Ledger device. Inside the box, you should find:

  • The Ledger hardware wallet

  • A USB cable

  • Recovery phrase sheets

  • A quick start guide

  • Optional accessories depending on the model

Make sure the box is sealed and the device looks untouched. Ledger devices never come preconfigured, and they never include a printed recovery phrase. If you find any phrase or code already written down, do not use the device because it may be compromised.

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/start

Once your device is ready, open your computer or mobile device and go to Ledger.com/start. The page will guide you to download Ledger Live, the official application used to manage your wallet, install apps, update firmware, and send or receive crypto. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android depending on your device model.

Downloading Ledger Live from the official website ensures the software has not been tampered with. Do not download Ledger Live from third-party app stores or links.

Step 3: Install Ledger Live

After downloading the application, follow the installation instructions:

  1. Open the installer file.

  2. Agree to the terms and conditions.

  3. Complete the installation process.

  4. Launch Ledger Live.

When you first open the app, it will ask whether you are setting up a new device or restoring an existing one. Choose Set up a new device if this is your first time using a Ledger wallet.

Step 4: Select Your Ledger Device

The app will display various Ledger models such as:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus

  • Ledger Nano X

  • Ledger Stax (if supported)

Select the model you purchased and continue. Ledger Live will walk you through the setup while syncing with the instructions shown on your physical device.

Step 5: Initialize Your Ledger Wallet

At this stage, your Ledger device will begin the initialization process. This includes creating a PIN code and generating a 24-word recovery phrase.

Create a Secure PIN Code

Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. Choose a PIN with 4–8 digits and confirm it on the device. Never share your PIN with anyone.

Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost, damaged, or reset. Carefully write the words on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order shown.

Remember these rules:

  • Never store the phrase digitally

  • Never take photos or screenshots

  • Never share it with anyone

  • Never enter your recovery phrase online

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase under any circumstances. If a website or person asks for it, it is a scam.

Step 6: Confirm the Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm several words from the phrase to ensure you wrote it down correctly. Complete this step carefully and keep the recovery sheet in a secure place such as a safe or lockbox.

Step 7: Install Crypto Apps on Your Device

Once your wallet is initialized, Ledger Live will ask you to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to use. For example:

  • Bitcoin app

  • Ethereum app

  • XRP, Litecoin, or others

Each cryptocurrency requires its own app on the Ledger device, but you can install and remove apps without losing any funds.

Step 8: Add Accounts in Ledger Live

After installing the apps, click “Add Account” in Ledger Live. This step allows you to view balances, send and receive transactions, and manage assets. Your private keys remain securely stored in the hardware wallet, even though the accounts appear in Ledger Live.

Step 9: Make Your First Crypto Transaction

With everything set up, you can now receive cryptocurrency:

  1. Open Ledger Live.

  2. Select “Receive.”

  3. Choose the account.

  4. Verify the displayed address on your Ledger device.

  5. Share the address with the sender.

Always check that the address on your screen matches the one on your Ledger device to prevent phishing or malware attacks.

Final Tips for Staying Secure

  • Only use Ledger.com/start for setup.

  • Enable Ledger Live's security settings, including password lock.

  • Keep your device firmware up to date.

  • Store your recovery phrase offline in a safe place.

  • Never share your recovery phrase or PIN.

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