Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started
Your trusted, step‑by‑step guide to setting up a Ledger® hardware wallet and protecting your digital assets from online threats.
Security should be the first decision—not the last—when entering crypto. Online wallets and exchanges can be convenient, but they expose private keys to the internet. Ledger® solves this by storing keys inside a secure element chip, keeping them offline and under your control. The official onboarding portal at Ledger.com/Start® walks you through installation, setup, and best practices so you can manage coins, tokens, and NFTs with confidence. This page summarizes that journey and highlights essential tips to keep your recovery phrase and transactions safe.
What is Ledger.com/Start®?
Ledger.com/Start® is the verified starting point for every new Ledger Nano device, including Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. It provides authentic downloads, device checks, and security education to help you avoid phishing pages, fake apps, and unsafe instructions. Using the official portal ensures that firmware, device prompts, and tutorials come directly from Ledger’s security team.
Why choose a Ledger hardware wallet?
- Offline protection: Private keys never leave the device, reducing exposure to malware.
- Simple control: Manage everything through the Ledger Live app for desktop or mobile.
- Broad support: Store Bitcoin, Ethereum, leading altcoins, and NFTs—thousands of assets.
- Future‑ready: Regular firmware and app updates defend against emerging threats.
With Ledger + Ledger Live, you can buy, receive, send, stake, and swap while authorizing each action on the device screen. If a site or person asks for your recovery phrase, it’s a scam.
Getting started: the essential steps
1) Unbox and verify authenticity
Inspect the packaging and accessories. Connect the device with the included cable and power it on. Open your browser and go to Ledger.com/Start® to begin the official guided setup—do not search for random links.
2) Install Ledger Live
Download the app for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android from the official site. Launch Ledger Live and follow the prompts to connect your device. Avoid third‑party download sites and always install updates from within the app.
3) Initialize the device and choose a PIN
On the device, select Create a new wallet (or Restore from recovery phrase if migrating). Set a strong PIN—avoid simple sequences. You will confirm actions by pressing both hardware buttons together.
4) Write down your 24‑word recovery phrase
Your Ledger generates a unique 24‑word recovery phrase. Carefully write the words in order on the recovery sheet (or a metal backup) and store them offline. Never type the phrase into a website, camera app, cloud document, or chat. Ledger support will never ask for it.
5) Add accounts and receive assets
In Ledger Live, go to My Ledger to install coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then select Add account for the asset you want to manage. To receive funds, generate a receiving address and verify it on the device screen before sharing it. Only confirm transactions that match exactly on your device display.
6) Keep everything updated
Update Ledger Live and device firmware when prompted to benefit from the latest security improvements and features. Regular updates are part of strong operational security.
Security best practices
- Double‑check addresses and amounts on the device screen before approving.
- Store your recovery phrase offline in a secure location; consider a fire‑ and water‑resistant metal backup.
- Beware of unsolicited messages, remote‑support requests, or sites that ask for your 24 words.
- Buy devices only from the official store or authorized resellers.
- Use a unique device PIN and computer/smartphone passcode; enable OS updates and antivirus.
The Ledger ecosystem
Ledger Live is your command center for portfolio tracking, staking, and swaps. Ledger Academy offers plain‑English lessons on wallets, blockchains, and Web3 safety. With compatible integrations, you can connect your Ledger to select DeFi apps and NFT marketplaces while keeping keys offline.
Quick FAQ
Is Ledger Live required?
Yes. Ledger Live pairs with your device for updates and account management. It also helps verify addresses and broadcast transactions securely.
What if I lose my device?
Your assets remain safe on the blockchain. Use the 24‑word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device to restore access. Without the phrase, funds cannot be recovered.
Can I use multiple devices?
Yes. You can import the same recovery phrase across multiple Ledger devices for redundancy, or use separate devices for different portfolios.
Wrap‑up
Starting at Ledger.com/Start® ensures you follow the official, secure path to setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. With offline key storage, verified software, and clear device confirmations, you retain full control of your crypto while minimizing risk. Take a few minutes to complete the steps above, and you’ll be ready to buy, receive, stake, and explore Web3—confident that your private keys never touch the internet.
