Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started
As the world shifts toward decentralized finance and digital asset ownership, securing your cryptocurrencies has become more important than ever. While software wallets and exchanges provide convenience, they cannot match the level of protection offered by a hardware wallet. This is where Ledger, one of the world’s most trusted crypto-security companies, comes in. For new users, the official and safest place to begin is Ledger.com/Start®, the designated setup portal for all Ledger hardware wallets.
This guide provides a clear, detailed, and user-friendly breakdown of what Ledger.com/Start is, why it matters, and how you can start using your Ledger device quickly and safely.
What Is Ledger.com/Start®?
Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding page created by Ledger for users who purchase a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or any Ledger hardware wallet. Its purpose is to guide you through:
Device authentication
Installing Ledger Live
Creating or restoring a wallet
Protecting your recovery phrase
Updating firmware
Getting started with crypto accounts
Because the cryptocurrency space can be dangerous—full of phishing sites and fake downloads—Ledger created a dedicated setup link so customers always know where to go. Visiting Ledger.com/Start ensures you follow a verified and secure process from the first step.
Why You Should Start Only at the Official Site
When it comes to cryptocurrency, security is everything. Using only official sources is essential for the protection of your digital wealth.
Here’s why Ledger.com/Start is the only safe place to begin:
1. Verified Downloads
The page directs you to download the authentic Ledger Live application. Search engines may display misleading ads or unofficial links, but the official site guarantees you’re installing the real software.
2. Device Authenticity
Ledger provides steps to check whether your device is genuine and free from tampering.
3. Protection From Scams
The crypto world is full of attempts to trick users into sharing their recovery phrases. The official site gives clear warnings and safety guidelines so you never fall victim to these scams.
4. Up-to-Date Instructions
Ledger continuously updates its onboarding process. Using the official site ensures you receive current, accurate, and secure guidance.
Benefits of Using a Ledger Hardware Wallet
Before diving into the setup process, it’s important to understand why so many crypto investors turn to Ledger in the first place.
1. Maximum Security
Ledger wallets store your private keys inside a Secure Element chip, which is the same type of chip used in passports and bank cards. This means your keys never leave the device, keeping them safe from hackers, malware, and online exploits.
2. True Ownership of Crypto
When you store your assets on an exchange, you don’t actually control your private keys. Ledger gives you complete ownership, ensuring that only you have access to your funds.
3. Offline Protection
Because your keys are kept offline—even when your device is connected—your crypto remains secure no matter what happens to your computer or phone.
4. Compatibility With Thousands of Assets
Ledger supports more than 8,000 cryptocurrencies and tokens, including:
Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH) and ERC-20 tokens
Solana (SOL)
XRP
Cardano (ADA)
Dogecoin (DOGE)
Polkadot (DOT)
NFTs across multiple blockchains
This makes Ledger a universal, long-term choice for diversified portfolios.
5. Built-In Recovery System
If your device is damaged, lost, or stolen, you can recover your entire wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase on any new Ledger device.
What You Need Before Starting
To begin the setup at Ledger.com/Start, make sure you have:
Your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X
A computer or smartphone
USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X)
Recovery phrase sheet
A pen to write down your 24 words
You do not need an internet seed phrase generator, external app, or third-party service. Everything you need is provided through Ledger’s official resources.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet
The setup process is straightforward. Below is a clean and simple walkthrough inspired by the official onboarding flow at Ledger.com/Start®.
Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start®
Open your browser and go directly to Ledger.com/Start. This is your verified starting point. From here, select your Ledger model and follow the prompts.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
You will be directed to download Ledger Live, the all-in-one platform for managing your crypto. It is available for:
Windows
macOS
Linux
iOS
Android
Ledger Live allows you to:
Create crypto accounts
Send and receive assets
Install and remove crypto apps
View your portfolio
Manage NFTs
Update device firmware
Buy and swap assets with partners
This software is essential for interacting with your Ledger device.
Step 3: Connect Your Device
Plug your Ledger wallet into your computer or connect it to your phone (Nano X supports Bluetooth). Ledger Live will automatically detect the device and guide you through initialization.
Step 4: Choose “Set Up as New” or “Restore”
Ledger presents two options:
1. Set Up as a New Device
If this is your first hardware wallet or you want a fresh wallet, choose this option to generate a new recovery phrase.
2. Restore From Recovery Phrase
If you had a wallet before and want to recover it, choose this option and enter your existing 12, 18, or 24 words directly on the device.
Step 5: Create a PIN Code
Choose a secure PIN (4–8 digits). This protects your wallet if someone physically gets hold of it.
Tips for a strong PIN:
Don't reuse old device PINs
Avoid simple patterns
Memorize it and keep it private
Step 6: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master backup for all crypto controlled by your wallet.
Ledger will ask you to verify each word to ensure you wrote them correctly.
Important security rules:
Never store your phrase online
Never take a photo of it
Never share it with anyone
Ledger will never ask for it
No app or website should request it
Your recovery phrase must remain private. Anyone with your 24 words gains full control of your cryptocurrency.
Step 7: Install Crypto Apps
Next, use Ledger Live to install apps for the crypto assets you want to manage. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and other blockchains each require their own app.
This step enables your device to securely sign transactions for each supported network.
Step 8: Add Crypto Accounts
Inside Ledger Live, go to Accounts, then click Add Account. Select the crypto you want to set up. Ledger Live will create an account and generate your receiving addresses.
You’re now ready to store and manage your assets.
Step 9: Transfer Funds Into Your Ledger Wallet
To move your cryptocurrency from an exchange or software wallet:
Select Receive in Ledger Live.
Verify the displayed address on both Ledger Live and your device.
Send funds to the address.
Always double-check that the address matches the one shown on your Ledger device screen. This ensures protection against address-replacement malware.
Maintaining Maximum Security After Setup
Once your Ledger is up and running, follow these best practices to keep your crypto safe long-term:
1. Keep Your Recovery Phrase Offline
Store it in a secure location such as a fireproof safe or metal backup plate.
2. Only Use the Official Ledger Website
Always visit Ledger.com or Ledger.com/Start for updates and downloads.
3. Regularly Update Ledger Live and Firmware
Updates contain important security improvements.
4. Be Cautious With Third-Party Websites
Never enter your seed phrase into any online tool, wallet importer, or exchange.
5. Use Strong Device and Computer Security
Avoid using compromised devices for crypto management.
Ledger Nano S Plus vs. Ledger Nano X: Which Is Right for You?
Both devices offer top-tier security, but they serve different needs.
Ledger Nano S Plus
USB only
Affordable
Large app support
Ideal for desktop users
Ledger Nano X
USB + Bluetooth
Mobile-friendly
Bigger screen
More app storage
If you want mobile convenience, choose the Nano X. If you prefer a budget-friendly option with excellent functionality, the Nano S Plus is perfect.