Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger Support

Welcome to your comprehensive guide for getting started with Ledger hardware wallets via the official onboarding portal at Ledger.com/Start®. This step‑by‑step tutorial is designed for new users and beginners, and walks you through everything from unboxing your device to managing crypto securely.

By following this Ledger.com/Start Getting Started Guide, you ensure you always use verified tools and instructions — the first and most important step in crypto security.

1. Why Start at Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® isn’t just a normal webpage — it’s the official onboarding hub from Ledger for securely configuring your hardware wallet and entering the world of self‑custody cryptocurrency. Using this page ensures you are accessing:

Verified downloads of Ledger Live — Ledger’s official companion software.
Step‑by‑step setup instructions tailored to your specific device model.
Security alerts and firmware updates from the official source.
Help resources and customer support links.

❗ Important: Always check that the URL is exactly https://www.ledger.com/start — this prevents phishing and scams.

Interlinking idea: Learn more about the importance of using the official Ledger.com/Start page in the “Security First” section below.

2. What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Before you begin setup at Ledger.com/Start, make sure you have:

📌 A genuine Ledger device, such as:
• Ledger Nano S Plus®
• Ledger Nano X®
• Ledger Stax® (if applicable)

📌 A computer or mobile device capable of running Ledger Live.

📌 A USB cable (included) — or Bluetooth for supported models.

📌 Pen and paper for writing your recovery phrase.

📌 A secure, offline environment where you can protect your recovery phrase and PIN.

3. Step‑by‑Step: Begin at Ledger.com/Start®

Step 3.1 — Visit Ledger.com/Start

To begin, manually type https://www.ledger.com/start into your browser. This is the only safe place for setup and official downloads. Avoid clicking links from emails or pop‑ups, as these are common ways scammers try to steal data.

👉 Once on the start page, you’ll find download links for Ledger Live, setup instructions, support links, and educational content.

Step 3.2 — Download & Install Ledger Live

On the Ledger.com/Start® page, select the version of Ledger Live for your device:

🔹 Windows
🔹 macOS
🔹 Linux
🔹 iOS
🔹 Android

Ledger Live is the software that lets you:

✔ Install cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device.
✔ Add accounts and manage crypto assets safely.
✔ Send and receive digital currency.
✔ Monitor your portfolio and interact with DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 tools.

Once downloaded, install Ledger Live and open the app.

Step 3.3 — Initialize Your Ledger Device

When you connect your Ledger device for the first time:

Power the device on using the included USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X only).
You’ll see the option:
✔ “Set up as a new device” — choose this unless you have an existing recovery phrase.
✔ “Restore device” — only use if you are restoring a wallet.

Your Ledger device will then ask you to:

🔹 Set a PIN code (4–8 digits).
🔹 Generate a unique 24‑word recovery phrase.

⚠️ Never share your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for these.

4. Secure Your Backup – The Recovery Phrase

The 24‑word recovery phrase is the most important part of Ledger setup.

🛡️ Write it down on paper or a secure metal plate.
🛡️ Store it offline in a safe location.
🛡️ Do not take photos, screenshot it, store it in the cloud, or enter it online.

Your recovery phrase is your only backup. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, this phrase is the only way to regain control of your crypto.

Interlinking idea: Learn the difference between the recovery phrase and your PIN in the “Security Tips” section below.

5. Install Cryptocurrency Apps

Once your Ledger device is initialized:

🔹 Open Ledger Live.
🔹 Navigate to the Manager tab.
🔹 Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to hold — e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more.

Each cryptocurrency may require its own app on the Ledger device. These apps let you securely manage each asset without exposing your private keys.

6. Add Accounts & Start Transacting

After installing the relevant apps:

✔ Add accounts to Ledger Live.
✔ Generate receive addresses.
✔ Send and receive crypto securely — all transactions must be approved on the physical Ledger device itself.

This hardware confirmation is what sets Ledger’s security apart — no one can send crypto without touching your device.

7. Security First: Why Stick to Ledger.com/Start®

One of the biggest threats in crypto is fake apps, phishing websites, and scam downloads. Only downloading Ledger Live and setup files from Ledger.com/Start® keeps you safe from malware that tries to steal your recovery phrase or private keys.

Security best practices:

✔ Only type Ledger.com/start into your browser — don’t click unknown links.
✔ Bookmark the official site for future use.
✔ Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, including “support” via email.
✔ Ledger support will never ask for your seed phrase.

Interlinking idea: See the “Security Best Practices” section for more details and example threats to avoid.

8. Advanced Options You Can Explore After Setup

After basic setup via Ledger.com/Start®, you can:

8.1 — Update Firmware & Apps

Ledger frequently updates software and firmware. Always use Ledger Live (downloaded from Ledger.com/Start) to apply these updates securely.

8.2 — Add Third‑Party Integrations

You can connect your Ledger to DeFi platforms and Web3 applications that support hardware wallet signing.

8.3 — Use Additional Security Features

Ledger offers features like passphrase protection for extra account isolation.

9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Ledger device isn’t detected in Ledger Live:

✔ Make sure the cable is fully connected.
✔ Restart Ledger Live.
✔ Try a different USB port or computer.
✔ Check that firmware is up to date via Ledger Live.

If you suspect a security issue — such as a pop‑up asking for your seed phrase — immediately stop and verify links. These are almost always scam attempts.

10. Final Words — Your Crypto Security Journey Starts Here

Ledger.com/Start® is the essential first step for every Ledger user, offering a secure, guided, and official setup experience you can trust. By following the steps above — from visiting Ledger.com/Start to setting up your device and managing your assets — you ensure your cryptocurrency journey begins safely and correctly.

Remember: Security begins with where you start. Always use official sources, protect your recovery phrase, and never share sensitive data online. With these principles, Ledger empowers you to take full ownership of your digital wealth.