Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

Getting Started with Ledger — Your Secure Crypto Journey Begins Here

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start®

Congratulations on stepping into the world of self‑custody and true crypto security! This is your official launchpad to safely set up, manage, and protect your digital assets using Ledger’s hardware wallets. The journey begins with Ledger.com/Start® — the verified, trusted portal for onboarding every Ledger device model.

In this guide, you’ll find **step‑by‑step instructions**, **security best practices**, and many helpful tips to avoid mistakes. Whether you’re new to crypto or already familiar, follow these instructions carefully — your funds are only as secure as your setup.

Why Start at Ledger.com/Start®?

There’s a reason Ledger insists users begin at **ledger.com/start**: it ensures you always follow the **official path**, receive **authenticated software**, and avoid falling prey to counterfeit sites and phishing scams. Starting here means you get:

⚠️ Warning: Do **not** search for “Ledger start” on random websites, or click links from emails or social media. Always type **ledger.com/start** yourself or use a trusted bookmark. Many phishing sites mimic the interface but will try to steal your recovery phrase.

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect Your Ledger Device

Your Ledger hardware wallet should arrive in a sealed, tamper-evident box. Inside, you should find:

Inspect the box carefully. If the seal is broken, or anything looks suspicious (e.g. pre-filled recovery sheet), *do not proceed*. Contact Ledger support immediately or return the product. A genuine Ledger will never include a pre-generated recovery phrase.

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/Start

Open your browser and navigate precisely to https://www.ledger.com/start. This is the gateway to the correct download links, setup flow, and security warnings. Avoid using search engine links or third-party mirrors.

Step 3: Download & Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your control center — it lets you interact with your device, manage crypto, monitor portfolio, and more. From ledger.com/start, choose your operating system and download the official Ledger Live installer:

After downloading, run the installer and follow on-screen instructions to install Ledger Live. Once it’s installed, open the app and continue.

Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device

With Ledger Live open, follow the instructions to initialize your device. The process typically includes:

  1. Selecting your device model
  2. Choosing “Set up as new device” (unless you are restoring an existing one)
  3. Choosing a secure PIN (4–8 digits)
  4. Generating your recovery phrase (24 words)
  5. Confirming a subset of recovery words to verify accuracy
💡 Tip: Do not rush writing down the 24 words. Use the recovery card included, write clearly, and double-check each word. These 24 words are your one and only backup to your wallet.

Step 5: Safeguard Your Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase (also called seed phrase) is the master key to your funds. Anyone who obtains it can control your wallet. Ledger **never** asks for it. Treat it as the most sensitive piece of information you own.

If you lose both your device and recovery phrase, your funds are unrecoverable. Ledger support cannot help restore it — you must keep that phrase safe.

Step 6: Connect Device & Verify Authenticity

With the hardware wallet set up, connect it to your computer or mobile. Ledger Live will perform an integrity check to verify the device is genuine and its firmware is intact. This helps detect tampered or counterfeit units early.

If authenticity verification fails, do **not** proceed. Contact Ledger support and discontinue use.

Step 7: Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts

Each blockchain or token you want to manage must have its corresponding app installed on your device. Inside Ledger Live:

  1. Go to the “Manager” tab
  2. Allow Ledger Live to access your device
  3. Browse available apps (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.)
  4. Click “Install” next to the ones you want
  5. Once installed, go to “Accounts” → “Add account” to add a new account for that chain

After accounts are added, Ledger Live will show your balance, transaction history, and more.

Step 8: Start Sending & Receiving Crypto

Now your wallet is ready for real use. Here’s how to interact with funds:

Receive Crypto

  1. In Ledger Live, click “Receive.”
  2. Select the account for the crypto you want.
  3. Connect your device and open the relevant blockchain app.
  4. Verify the address on your device matches what Ledger Live shows.
  5. Share that verified address with the sender.

Send Crypto

  1. Click “Send” in Ledger Live.
  2. Enter recipient address, amount, and (if applicable) fees.
  3. Connect your device and review the transaction details on the device screen.
  4. Confirm the transaction using the buttons on the device.

Step 9: Explore Additional Features

Ledger’s ecosystem extends beyond simple sending and receiving. Once your device is active, you can use other powerful features:

Security Best Practices & Ongoing Habits

Setting up your device is just the start. Maintaining good security practices ensures long-term safety of your assets.

How to Restore Your Wallet If Needed

If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or reset, you can recover your wallet on another device using your 24‑word recovery phrase:

  1. Obtain a new Ledger device (or factory-reset one).
  2. Select “Restore device using recovery phrase” during initialization.
  3. Enter your 24 words in order, using the buttons on the device.
  4. Set a new PIN.
  5. Open Ledger Live, then add the same blockchain accounts as before.

After restoration, your accounts and funds should appear, provided your recovery phrase was correctly stored.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is Ledger.com/Start® safe?

Yes — it is the **official onboarding hub** for Ledger devices. Always ensure the URL is exactly ledger.com/start and uses HTTPS.

What if my device fails to connect or be recognized?

Try alternate USB cables, USB ports, or devices. Ensure your operating system is supported and up-to-date. On mobile, check permissions. In persistent cases, restart your OS or consult the Ledger support portal.

What if authenticity check fails?

Immediately stop using the device. Contact official Ledger support through ledger.com. Do not proceed or enter your seed.

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

Sadly, if you lose the recovery phrase *and* the device, you lose access to your funds forever. Ledger and anyone else cannot help you recover it. That is why safeguarding it is critical.

Can I set up Ledger without Ledger Live?

No. Ledger Live is an essential companion app. It coordinates the connection between your device and the cryptocurrencies you manage. Without it, you cannot reliably install apps, update firmware, or perform transactions.

Quick Setup Summary

Here’s a short reference checklist:

  1. Inspect your Ledger device box and contents
  2. Go to ledger.com/start
  3. Download Ledger Live and install
  4. Initialize the device and set PIN
  5. Write and verify your 24‑word recovery phrase offline
  6. Connect and allow authenticity verification
  7. Install crypto apps and add accounts
  8. Send, receive, stake, swap, and manage safely

Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/Start® is your **secure gateway** into the world of decentralized finance. By following the official path, you ensure that your setup is authentic, your software is safe, and your funds are protected. Always remember: the strength of your security is only as good as the steps you take.

Build good habits from day one. Never skip verifying on the device. Never share your recovery phrase. Always keep backups. With these precautions, you can confidently manage your crypto, explore NFTs and Web3, stake assets, and transact with peace of mind.

Your journey starts now. Head to ledger.com/start and take control of your digital future — securely, confidently, freely.