Official® | Lédger.com/Start® | Getting Started

Ledger.com/Start – Your Official Guide to Setting Up a Ledger Hardware Wallet

When it comes to securing your cryptocurrency, nothing is more important than starting the right way. Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page for Ledger hardware wallets, designed to help users safely initialize their devices and begin managing digital assets with confidence. Whether you’ve purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus or a Ledger Nano X, this page is your trusted starting point for secure crypto ownership.

Cryptocurrency security begins with self-custody. Unlike online exchanges or software wallets, a Ledger hardware wallet keeps your private keys offline inside a secure chip. This significantly reduces exposure to hackers, malware, and phishing attacks. However, even the most secure device must be set up correctly. That’s why Ledger.com/start exists—to provide verified downloads, step-by-step instructions, and essential security guidance directly from the official source.

Why Start at Ledger.com/Start?

In the crypto world, scams and fake wallet applications are unfortunately common. Fraudulent websites may imitate official platforms in an attempt to steal recovery phrases or trick users into downloading malicious software. By visiting Ledger.com/start, you ensure that you are accessing:

• The official Ledger Live application
• Authentic device verification tools
• Secure setup instructions
• Trusted educational resources

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase, private keys, or PIN. The official start page reinforces these security principles from the very beginning.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

The first step at Ledger.com/start is downloading Ledger Live, the official companion application for your hardware wallet. Ledger Live is available for:

• Windows
• macOS
• Linux
• iOS
• Android

Ledger Live allows you to manage crypto assets, install apps on your device, monitor balances, send and receive transactions, and explore staking or other features. Always download Ledger Live directly through the official start page to avoid counterfeit versions.

Once installed, open Ledger Live and select “Get Started.” You will be guided through the setup process based on your specific device model.

Step 2: Initialize Your Device

When setting up your Ledger device for the first time, you will choose to either:

• Set up as a new device
• Restore from an existing recovery phrase

If you are new to Ledger, select “Set up as new device.” The device will then generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your crypto assets.

Step 3: Secure Your Recovery Phrase

The 24-word recovery phrase is the most important part of your setup. It is generated offline by your device and displayed only once. You must:

• Write it down carefully on the provided recovery sheet
• Keep it offline
• Store it in a secure, private location

Never take a photo of your recovery phrase.
Never store it digitally.
Never share it with anyone.

Anyone who has access to your recovery phrase can access your funds. Ledger does not store this phrase, and it cannot be recovered if lost. Ledger.com/start strongly emphasizes these precautions to protect users from theft or accidental loss.

After writing it down, the device will ask you to confirm several words to ensure you recorded them correctly.

Step 4: Set Your PIN Code

Next, you will create a PIN code for your device. This PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized physical access. Each time you connect your Ledger device, you must enter your PIN.

If someone enters the wrong PIN multiple times, the device will reset automatically, protecting your crypto assets from brute-force attacks. Combined with the recovery phrase backup, this creates a powerful layer of security.

Step 5: Verify Device Authenticity

One of the unique features of the Ledger setup process is genuine device verification. Ledger Live performs a cryptographic check to confirm that your device is authentic and has not been tampered with.

This step ensures:

• The secure element chip is genuine
• The firmware is official
• The device has not been compromised

Verification happens automatically during setup, giving you peace of mind that your wallet is legitimate.

Step 6: Install Crypto Apps

Once your device is initialized and verified, you can install cryptocurrency apps through Ledger Live. Each supported blockchain requires its own app.

For example:

• Install the Bitcoin app to manage BTC
• Install the Ethereum app for ETH and ERC-20 tokens
• Install additional apps for supported networks

Ledger devices support thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens. Even if storage space is limited, apps can be removed and reinstalled without affecting your funds because private keys remain secured by your recovery phrase.

Managing Your Crypto with Ledger Live

After setup, Ledger Live becomes your secure dashboard. From here, you can:

• Add accounts
• Check real-time balances
• Send and receive crypto
• Buy, sell, or swap supported assets
• Stake select cryptocurrencies
• Update firmware

All transactions must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device. This means even if your computer is infected with malware, transactions cannot be approved without manual confirmation on the hardware wallet itself.

Security Best Practices

Ledger.com/start not only walks you through setup but also teaches essential security habits:

1. Always verify receiving addresses on your device screen.
2. Keep your firmware updated through Ledger Live.
3. Ignore emails or messages asking for your recovery phrase.
4. Bookmark the official Ledger website to avoid phishing copies.
5. Store your recovery phrase in a fireproof and waterproof location if possible.

Crypto ownership means full control—but also full responsibility. Following these guidelines significantly reduces risk.

Restoring a Wallet

If you ever lose or damage your Ledger device, you can restore access to your funds using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.

During restoration, you will:

• Select “Restore from recovery phrase”
• Enter the 24 words in the correct order
• Set a new PIN

Your accounts and balances will reappear once synchronized with the blockchain. This demonstrates why keeping your recovery phrase secure is absolutely critical.

Why Hardware Wallets Matter

Ledger devices use a Secure Element chip, similar to those used in passports and credit cards. This chip isolates private keys from internet-connected environments. Unlike exchange wallets, where third parties hold custody of assets, Ledger users maintain complete ownership.

Benefits include:

• Protection from exchange hacks
• Offline key storage
• Physical transaction verification
• Greater privacy and independence

Ledger.com/start introduces users to this concept of self-custody, empowering them to take full control of their digital wealth.

Education and Support

Beyond setup, Ledger.com/start connects users to:

• The Ledger Support Center
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Troubleshooting guides
• Ledger Academy educational articles

These resources help users deepen their understanding of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency security, and safe digital asset management.

Start Secure, Stay Secure

Your crypto security journey begins the moment you unbox your Ledger device. Using Ledger.com/start ensures that you follow the official process from day one. By downloading Ledger Live from the trusted source, carefully securing your recovery phrase, setting a PIN, verifying authenticity, and practicing smart security habits, you create a strong foundation for protecting your digital assets.

In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency, threats are real—but so are the tools to defend against them. Ledger hardware wallets, combined with the official setup process at Ledger.com/start, provide one of the most secure methods available for storing and managing crypto.

If you value ownership, privacy, and long-term protection of your digital assets, always begin at the official source: Ledger.com/start.