Ledger.com/start — Complete Beginner’s Guide

Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you have a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or another model, this guide walks you through the essential steps: installing Ledger Live, initializing the device, creating a PIN and recovery phrase, managing accounts, and following security best practices to protect your crypto.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start provides step-by-step onboarding instructions for new Ledger users. It explains how to download the companion app (Ledger Live), connect and initialize your device, create a secure PIN, back up your 24-word recovery phrase, install blockchain apps, and send or receive cryptocurrency. Following the official start page reduces the risk of phishing and ensures you use authentic software.

Before You Begin

  • Inspect the packaging for tampering and confirm the device looks new.
  • Only download Ledger Live from the official site (type the URL manually to avoid phishing).
  • Keep your recovery sheet (paper card) ready — never store your recovery phrase digitally or photograph it.

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Install Ledger Live
    Download and install the Ledger Live desktop or mobile app from the official ledger site. The desktop app is recommended for first-time setup.
  2. Open Ledger Live and Choose “Get Started”
    Launch the application and select your device model when prompted.
  3. Initialize Your Device
    Choose “Set up as a new device” if you’re starting fresh, or “Restore from recovery” if you already have an existing recovery phrase. Follow on-device prompts.
  4. Create a PIN
    Set a secure PIN directly on the device. The PIN protects against physical access by unauthorized people.
  5. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
    The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase (seed). Write it down on the provided recovery card in the exact order. Store the card offline and in a secure location. Never type or photograph the seed.
  6. Verify the Recovery Phrase
    The device will prompt you to confirm words to ensure you wrote them correctly.
  7. Install Apps and Add Accounts
    Use Ledger Live to install blockchain-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on your device and create accounts for each asset.
  8. Make a Test Transaction
    Send a small amount to or from your new account to confirm the transaction flow and address verification on the device.

Ledger Live — What It Does

Ledger Live is the official companion app used to manage your Ledger device. It allows you to:

  • Install or remove blockchain apps on the device.
  • Add and manage multiple accounts and tokens.
  • Send and receive cryptocurrency with on-device verification.
  • Update device firmware securely.
  • Monitor portfolio value and transaction history.

Security Best Practices

  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger support or any legitimate service will never ask for it.
  • Store the recovery phrase offline in one or more secure locations (consider geographic separation for redundancy).
  • Verify transaction data on your device before approving — always confirm addresses and amounts on the Ledger screen.
  • Download Ledger Live only from the official site and keep the app and firmware updated.
  • Use a strong PIN and consider implementing additional precautions (like physical safes or secure storage for backup phrases).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not detected: Try another USB cable or port, avoid USB hubs, and ensure Ledger Live is up to date.
  • Lost recovery phrase: If you still have access to the device, create a new wallet and transfer funds to it. If you lose both the device and the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.
  • Firmware or update problems: Retry the update through Ledger Live, restart the app and device, and consult official support if problems persist.
  • Bluetooth pairing (Nano X): Ensure Bluetooth is enabled and the device is in pairing mode; use Ledger Live Mobile for wireless management.

Why Start at Ledger.com/start?

Starting from the official page ensures you download authentic software, follow recommended security steps, and minimize exposure to scams. Ledger.com/start is the provider-approved path to initialize your hardware wallet safely and confidently.