Ledger.com/start – Step-by-Step Setup Guide for Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
Setting up a hardware wallet is one of the smartest moves you can make to protect your cryptocurrency. Ledger devices are trusted around the world for their strong security and user-friendly design. If you have just purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or any other compatible device, the official place to begin is Ledger.com/start. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from unboxing your device to managing your first crypto assets safely.
What Is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page provided by Ledger. It directs new users through the correct setup process and ensures they download the authentic Ledger Live application. Because scams and fake wallet sites are common in the crypto space, always make sure you are visiting the real site by typing the URL directly into your browser. This page guarantees that everything you install comes straight from Ledger and has not been altered.
Unboxing and Preparing Your Ledger Device
When you open your Ledger package, you should find the following items:
The Ledger hardware wallet
A USB cable
Recovery phrase sheets
A quick-start card
Instructions or stickers depending on the model
Inspect the device and packaging. It’s important to know that Ledger does not pre-set your wallet, and it does not provide a recovery phrase inside the box. If you ever receive a device that already includes a written recovery phrase, do not use it. This could mean the device is unsafe or tampered with.
Go to Ledger.com/start to Begin
Once you're ready, visit Ledger.com/start on your laptop or smartphone. The page will direct you to download Ledger Live, the companion software needed to configure your device. Ledger Live is available for major operating systems, including macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Downloading from the official website is essential. Avoid third-party sites or unofficial app stores, as these may expose you to fake software that steals cryptocurrency.
Download and Install Ledger Live
After downloading Ledger Live, follow the prompts to install it on your device. Once opened, the application will ask whether you are setting up a new Ledger device or restoring an existing one. Choose “Set up a new device” if this is your first Ledger wallet.
Ledger Live offers an easy-to-navigate interface that guides you through each step so you can complete the setup safely.
Choose Your Ledger Model
The next step is selecting your specific model inside Ledger Live. Options typically include:
Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X
Ledger Stax (if supported)
After selecting your model, the app will sync its instructions with the prompts displayed on your Ledger hardware wallet.
Create a PIN Code on Your Device
Now it’s time to personalize your Ledger wallet with a PIN code, which acts as your first line of security. The PIN usually contains 4 to 8 digits. You will enter and confirm it directly on your Ledger device.
Make sure to choose a PIN that you can remember but others cannot easily guess. Never share this PIN with anyone.
Generate and Secure Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger will automatically generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your wallet. It is what allows you to recover your assets if the device is lost, destroyed, or reset.
Write down the words exactly as they appear on your screen using the provided recovery sheets. Keep the following security rules in mind:
Do not take photos or screenshots
Do not save the phrase on a computer or phone
Do not share it with anyone
Do not type it into any website
Ledger will never ask you for your recovery phrase. Any attempt to collect it is a scam.
Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
To make sure you saved your phrase correctly, the device will ask you to verify several of the words. This step ensures there are no mistakes. Once confirmed, store your written phrase in a secure, private location.
Install Cryptocurrency Apps Through Ledger Live
Your Ledger wallet is now initialized. The next task is installing the apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to use. Each blockchain requires its own application on the device. Common examples include:
Bitcoin
Ethereum
Binance Smart Chain
Litecoin
Polygon
These apps take up space on your Ledger device, but removing an app later does not remove your crypto. Your assets stay safe because they are connected to your recovery phrase, not the app itself.
Add Accounts to Ledger Live
Next, open Ledger Live and select “Add account” for each crypto app you installed. Once added, you can see your balances, generate addresses, and track transactions. Even though you can view your funds in the Ledger Live interface, your private keys never leave the hardware wallet.
Receiving Your First Crypto Assets
To receive crypto:
Open Ledger Live
Select “Receive”
Choose your account
Verify the receiving address on your Ledger device
Copy or share the address with the sender
Always confirm the address shown on your computer matches the one displayed on your Ledger device. This protects you from malware that could change the address on your screen.
Important Security Tips for Every Ledger User
Only trust Ledger.com/start for downloading Ledger Live
Keep your recovery phrase offline at all times
Enable the password lock in Ledger Live
Update firmware regularly to stay protected
Never give your recovery phrase to anyone, even support agents
Conclusion
Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet through Ledger.com/start is the safest way to begin your crypto journey. By following the setup steps carefully and safeguarding your recovery phrase, you ensure long-term protection for your digital assets. Ledger puts you in control, but the responsibility of keeping your recovery phrase secure is entirely in your hands.