Why Start at Ledger.com/Start?
When it comes to crypto security, every detail counts. Ledger.com/Start is your **official, trusted path** to setting up and managing your hardware wallet—without falling prey to fake websites, phishing scams, or tampered instructions. By entering through this portal, you ensure you always get the latest, verified software downloads, installation checks, and security updates directly from Ledger.
Whether you're new to hardware wallets or returning to update your Ledger experience, this page serves as your backbone reference for safe setup, best practices, and future maintenance.
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
To ensure a smooth setup, gather the following items and prepare your environment. Having everything ready will reduce mistakes and minimize risk.
- A **Ledger hardware wallet** (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax) purchased through official channels.
- A **computer or smartphone** with a compatible operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android).
- A **USB‑C cable**, or Bluetooth (for Nano X) as supplied in your Ledger kit.
- A **pen** (or two) and the **recovery sheet** included in the box, for writing down your 24‑word recovery phrase.
- A calm, distraction‑free workspace and a stable internet connection.
- Basic understanding: never enter the recovery phrase into a computer or store it digitally.
Tip: Don’t rush. Take your time, double-check each step, and always verify actions on your Ledger device display itself rather than relying solely on your computer screen.
Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide
1. Visit Ledger.com/Start
Open your browser and type in ledger.com/Start. Make sure the URL is secure (HTTPS) and that you see the official Ledger site interface—never proceed if something looks off or suspicious. This ensures you're not tricked by a counterfeit site.
2. Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion app for your device. It allows you to install blockchain apps, manage accounts, send/receive transactions, track your portfolio, and perform firmware updates.
Choose the correct version for your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). Once downloaded, verify the installer using checksums or digital signatures (SHA‑256, GPG) if available. This helps ensure you haven’t been misled by a tampered download.
3. Power On & Initialize Your Device
Connect your Ledger and power it on. On screen, select “Set up as new device” (unless restoring from a previous wallet). Choose a **secure PIN** (4–8 digits). The PIN is entered on the device itself, not your computer, which ensures that even if your PC is compromised, the PIN remains safe.
4. Write & Verify Your Recovery Phrase
The device will display a **24‑word recovery phrase**, one word at a time. **Write each word** on the recovery sheet that came with the device. Never take photos, never copy it digitally, never type it.
After writing, the device will ask you to verify certain words. This ensures you recorded it correctly. This 24-word phrase is your ultimate backup—if your device is lost or broken, this phrase allows you to recover your funds.
5. Install Blockchain Apps via Ledger Live
Open Ledger Live, go to the “Manager” section, and install only the apps you need (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Ledger devices have limited "app slots" so avoid installing too many at once.
Each installed app is a secure environment for that particular blockchain, isolating it from others to reduce risk.
6. Add Crypto Accounts & Verify Addresses
Still within Ledger Live, add accounts for each blockchain you’ll use. When receiving funds, generate a receive address in Ledger Live, but **always compare** it to the address shown on your Ledger device screen. Malware on your computer might try to alter the address shown on screen—but your device acts as the ultimate source of truth.
7. Make a Test Transaction
Before sending large amounts, try a small transaction to verify everything works as expected. Use Ledger Live to send funds, check the details directly on your device screen, then confirm. This helps confirm that your setup is functional before risking large sums.
8. Operating & Managing on a Daily Basis
You can now receive, send, swap, stake (if applicable), or interact with DeFi and NFTs—always confirming actions on your device. Your private keys never leave the Ledger.
In Ledger Live, you can:
- View your portfolio and balances
- Track transaction history
- Swap or exchange crypto using integrated partners
- Stake or support PoS networks (if your assets support it)
- Update firmware and apps when new versions are released
Security Best Practices
Your security is only as strong as your weakest link. Here are critical guidelines to keep your crypto safe:
- Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger (or any support) will never ask for it. If someone asks, it’s a scam.
- Never type or store the phrase digitally—no cloud, no photos, no notes apps.
- Always verify receive/send addresses on the device display itself—not just your computer screen.
- Use a strong PIN, and don’t reuse it across devices or services.
- Update firmware and Ledger Live regularly—but only via verified official downloads.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi during critical operations; use secure networks.
- Consider using a **passphrase** (an extra word in addition to the 24 words) for advanced users, which can create hidden wallet vaults. Use this only if you understand the trade-offs.
- Store your recovery phrase backups in **separate, secure physical locations** (e.g. safe, bank deposit box, fireproof metal plate). Splitting into shards or using multi‑party custody are advanced options for high-value holdings.
- Be extremely cautious of phishing attempts—always check domain names, SSL certificates, and bookmarks. Do not click links from unsolicited messages related to “Ledger support.”
The goal is that **your private keys should never leave your device** and **your recovery phrase should never touch the internet**.
Maintenance & Firmware Updates
To stay secure and take advantage of new features, periodic updates are essential. Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve security and functionality. Here’s how to manage them safely:
- Check for firmware updates via Ledger Live only.
- Read release notes to understand what's changing or fixing.
- When updating, follow instructions precisely and verify hashes if provided.
- Avoid initiating updates when you’re under time pressure or in a risky network environment.
- After updates, make sure your apps and accounts still work properly—run a small test transaction if needed.
Also, periodically review your account activity, check for suspicious transactions, and keep Ledger Live’s version up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Ledger.com/Start safe?
Yes — Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding portal. Always ensure the URL is correct (https://ledger.com/Start) and you see the Ledger branding. If in doubt, close the page and navigate again manually.
Q: Can I recover funds without a device?
Yes — using your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or on any compatible software wallet that supports the same derivation scheme (though software wallets may carry more risk).
Q: What happens if I enter the wrong PIN too many times?
After several incorrect attempts (typically three), the device will wipe itself to protect your crypto. You can then restore from your recovery phrase.
Q: Can Ledger be hacked remotely?
Because your private keys never leave the device, remote hacks are extremely difficult. However, phishing, social engineering, or malware on your computer could trick you—hence why device verification and cautious habits are critical.
Q: What’s a passphrase, and should I use it?
A passphrase is an optional “25th word” you can add to your recovery phrase to create a hidden vault. It increases security but also increases risk: if you lose the passphrase, funds in that vault become inaccessible. Only use passphrases if you fully understand them.
Support & Additional Resources
If you face any issues, Ledger offers a support center with guides, troubleshooting steps, and a knowledge base. Reach out for help—just never share your recovery phrase or PIN.
Always verify that destination websites also belong to the official ledger.com domain.