Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger Support™

If you’ve just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, congratulations—you’ve taken a major step toward securing your digital assets. Hardware wallets like Ledger are widely trusted because they store your private keys offline, protecting your cryptocurrency from hacks, malware, and phishing attacks.

This guide walks you through getting started with Ledger.com/Start®, explaining setup, security best practices, and common questions new users have. Whether you’re holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or multiple crypto assets, following the right steps from the beginning is critical for long-term safety.

What Is Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding page designed to help new users set up their Ledger hardware wallet safely. It guides you to download Ledger Live, initialize your device, and learn essential security practices.

Important: Always manually type the Ledger website address into your browser. Never click setup links from emails, ads, or social media messages, as phishing sites are common in the crypto space.

What You Need Before You Begin

Before starting the setup process, make sure you have:

A new Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or similar)

A computer or smartphone with internet access

A USB cable or Bluetooth (depending on your device)

A quiet, private place to write down your recovery phrase

Taking time to prepare helps prevent mistakes during setup, especially when handling sensitive security information.

Step 1: Go to Ledger.com/Start®

Open your browser and navigate directly to Ledger.com/Start®. This page ensures you’re following the correct and secure setup path.

From there, you’ll be prompted to:

Choose your Ledger device model

Download the official Ledger Live application

Follow step-by-step instructions for initialization

Avoid downloading Ledger Live from third-party websites or app stores that aren’t linked from Ledger’s official site.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion app used to manage your crypto assets. It allows you to:

Install cryptocurrency apps on your device

Create and manage accounts

Send and receive crypto

Check balances and transaction history

Once downloaded:

Install Ledger Live on your computer or phone

Open the app and select “Get Started”

Choose “Set up a new device”

Ledger Live will verify that your device is genuine, ensuring it hasn’t been tampered with.

Step 3: Set Up Your Ledger Device

When you power on your Ledger device for the first time, you’ll be guided through the setup process directly on the device screen.

Create a PIN Code

Choose a 4- to 8-digit PIN

This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access

Avoid using obvious combinations like 1234 or birth years

If someone enters the wrong PIN multiple times, the device automatically resets, protecting your funds.

Step 4: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most important step in the entire process.

Your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase, one word at a time. This phrase is the master key to your crypto.

Critical rules to follow:

Write the words down on paper only

Never take photos or screenshots

Never store it digitally (cloud, notes app, email)

Never share it with anyone—ever

Ledger Support™ will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone who has it can fully control your assets.

After writing it down, the device will ask you to confirm the phrase to ensure accuracy.

Step 5: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

Once your device is set up and verified in Ledger Live, you can begin adding accounts.

Open Ledger Live

Go to Accounts → Add account

Select the cryptocurrency you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)

Install the corresponding app on your Ledger device

Ledger supports thousands of coins and tokens, making it a flexible solution for diversified portfolios.

Sending and Receiving Crypto Receiving Crypto

Select the account in Ledger Live

Click Receive

Verify the address on your Ledger device screen

Share the address with the sender

Always verify addresses on the physical device—not just on your computer screen.

Sending Crypto

Click Send

Enter the recipient’s address and amount

Review transaction details on your Ledger device

Physically confirm the transaction

This confirmation step ensures malware cannot send funds without your approval.

Essential Security Best Practices

To stay safe long-term, follow these guidelines:

Never share your recovery phrase

Ignore emails or messages claiming “urgent account issues”

Keep your device firmware up to date via Ledger Live

Store your recovery phrase in a secure, offline location

Consider using a fireproof or metal backup for added protection

Remember: Ledger wallets give you full control. With that control comes responsibility.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

Many new users lose funds due to avoidable errors. Be mindful of these common mistakes:

Typing recovery phrases into fake websites

Buying used or pre-initialized Ledger devices

Storing recovery phrases digitally

Rushing through setup without verifying details

Taking your time during setup is far safer than trying to fix mistakes later.

Final Thoughts

Using Ledger.com/Start® is the safest way to begin your journey with a Ledger hardware wallet. By following the official setup steps, securing your recovery phrase, and staying alert to scams, you significantly reduce the risk of losing your crypto.