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

james

— 4 min read

When it comes to protecting cryptocurrency investments, security should always come first. Hardware wallets have become the gold standard for self-custody, and Ledger is one of the most recognized names in the industry. If you have purchased a Ledger device, the first and most important step is visiting Ledger.com/start, the official onboarding page for setting up your hardware wallet safely and correctly.

Starting from the official setup page ensures that you download authentic software, install verified firmware, and initialize your wallet in a secure environment. Because cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible, taking the time to follow proper setup procedures is essential.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal designed to guide users through initializing their Ledger hardware wallet. It provides step-by-step instructions for downloading the official wallet management application, setting up your device, and securing your recovery phrase.

It is extremely important to access the correct website. Always type the URL directly into your browser instead of clicking on ads, email links, or social media posts. Phishing websites often attempt to imitate legitimate crypto services in order to steal recovery phrases.

Why Choose Ledger?

Ledger hardware wallets are designed to keep your private keys offline. Unlike software wallets that store keys on internet-connected devices, Ledger stores them inside a secure chip embedded within the hardware wallet. This chip is specifically designed to resist tampering and physical attacks.

Even if your computer becomes infected with malware, your private keys remain protected. Every transaction must be physically confirmed on the Ledger device itself. This layer of physical verification prevents unauthorized remote access to your funds.

Supported Ledger Devices

At Ledger.com/start, you can initialize different Ledger models, including:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus – A reliable and affordable hardware wallet suitable for beginners and long-term holders.
  • Ledger Nano X – A premium model featuring Bluetooth connectivity and expanded storage for multiple crypto apps.

Both devices are compatible with Ledger’s official management software and support a wide range of cryptocurrencies.

Downloading Ledger Live

During the setup process, you will be instructed to download Ledger Live. Ledger Live is the official application used to manage your Ledger hardware wallet.

Ledger Live allows you to:

  • Install cryptocurrency apps on your device
  • Add and manage multiple accounts
  • Send and receive crypto
  • Track portfolio balances
  • Buy, sell, and swap supported assets
  • Update firmware securely

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

For maximum security, downloading Ledger Live directly from the official Ledger website is strongly recommended.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Visit Ledger.com/start

Open your browser and manually type Ledger.com/start. Confirm that the site is legitimate before proceeding.

2. Download Ledger Live

Select your operating system and download the official Ledger Live application.

3. Connect Your Device

Use the USB cable provided to connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone.

4. Set Up as New Device

Choose the option to set up as a new device if this is your first time using Ledger.

5. Create a PIN Code

You will create a PIN directly on the device. This PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized physical access.

6. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is displayed only once on the device screen.

Securing Your Recovery Phrase

The 24-word recovery phrase is the most important part of your wallet setup. It acts as the master key to your cryptocurrency.

Important security rules:

  • Write the words down exactly as shown.
  • Never take a photo or screenshot.
  • Never store it in cloud storage.
  • Never share it with anyone.
  • Store it in a secure offline location.

If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, this recovery phrase allows you to restore your wallet on a new Ledger device.

Without the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.

Installing Crypto Apps and Adding Accounts

After setup, you can use Ledger Live to install apps for supported cryptocurrencies. Each cryptocurrency requires its own app on the device.

Once installed, you can:

  • Add accounts
  • Generate receiving addresses
  • Send funds
  • Monitor transaction history

All outgoing transactions require confirmation on the device screen, ensuring that you remain in control at all times.

Firmware Updates

Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve security and add new features. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available.

Keeping firmware updated ensures:

  • Improved security protection
  • Better performance
  • Support for additional cryptocurrencies

Always perform updates through Ledger Live only.

Best Security Practices

To maintain maximum security:

  • Only use Ledger Live from the official website
  • Never share your recovery phrase
  • Verify transaction addresses on the device screen
  • Use a strong and unique PIN
  • Beware of phishing emails claiming to be from Ledger
  • Never enter your recovery phrase on any website

Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase online.

Recovering Your Wallet

If your Ledger device is lost or damaged:

  1. Purchase a new Ledger device.
  2. Choose “Restore from recovery phrase.”
  3. Enter your 24 words in the correct order.

Your accounts and balances will be restored exactly as before.

This process highlights why protecting your recovery phrase is critical.

Why Ledger.com/start Is Essential

Using Ledger.com/start ensures:

  • You download authentic software
  • You follow verified setup instructions
  • You avoid phishing scams
  • Your wallet is initialized securely

Skipping official setup instructions can expose you to unnecessary risk. Always begin with the official onboarding page to ensure full protection.

Final Thoughts

Ledger hardware wallets provide one of the most secure ways to store cryptocurrency. By keeping private keys offline and requiring physical confirmation for transactions, Ledger minimizes the risk of online attacks.

However, the security of your wallet ultimately depends on proper setup and safe storage of your recovery phrase. By starting at Ledger.com/start and carefully following each step, you ensure that your crypto assets remain under your complete control.

Self-custody empowers you with financial independence — but it also comes with responsibility. Take your time during setup, protect your recovery phrase, and always stay vigilant against phishing attempts.

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