Ledger.com/Start® | Official Site | Getting Started™
What Is Ledger.com/Start®?
Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding portal provided by Ledger that helps users initialize their Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or another Ledger device, Ledger.com/Start® gives you simple instructions and official software to begin securely managing your cryptocurrencies.
This setup experience prioritizes security, ensuring you connect directly with Ledger’s trusted infrastructure rather than unofficial software or guides.
Why Use a Ledger Wallet?
A Ledger Wallet is a hardware device designed to keep your crypto private keys offline and safe. Here’s why millions of users choose Ledger:
- Industry-leading security using a Secure Element (SE) chip.
- Offline private key management prevents exposure to online hacks.
- Multi-asset support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and thousands of tokens.
- User control of your recovery phrase and private keys.
- Seamless management through the Ledger Live app.
Unboxing Your Ledger Wallet
Before navigating to Ledger.com/Start®, let’s confirm what should be in your box:
- Your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Nano X or Nano S Plus).
- A USB cable to connect your device to your computer.
- Recovery sheet cards to write down your backup phrase.
- Instruction leaflets guiding you through initial steps.
If anything is missing or the packaging appears tampered with, stop and contact Ledger support immediately.
Step-by-Step: Ledger Wallet Setup via Ledger.com/Start®
The easiest way to start is with the official setup route. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Visit the Official Start Page
Open a safe browser and enter your Ledger Wallet by navigating to:
https://ledger.com/start
Doing this ensures you’re interacting with the legitimate onboarding software provided by Ledger.
2. Choose Your Ledger Device
Select the correct device type you have (e.g., “Ledger Nano X” or “Ledger Nano S Plus”) so that the portal can provide tailored instructions.
3. Download Ledger Live
Once you’ve selected your device, click “Download Ledger Live.” This official companion app allows you to install crypto apps, view balances, and send/receive funds.
Ledger Live is available for:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- iOS & Android (mobile app)
Make sure you download Ledger Live only from the Ledger website—never from third-party sites.
4. Install Ledger Live on Your Computer
After downloading, launch the installer and follow on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Once installed, open Ledger Live to begin device initialization.
5. Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the provided USB cable (or Bluetooth for compatible models) to connect your Ledger Wallet to your computer or mobile device. Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt you to continue setup.
6. Select “Initialize as New Device”
If this is your first time using the Ledger, choose “Initialize as new device.” You’ll then be guided through creating a PIN code.
7. Create Your PIN
Choose a 4- to 8-digit PIN. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. Enter it carefully—you’ll need it every time you unlock your Ledger Wallet.
8. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
This is the most critical step:
Your Ledger recovery phrase is the only backup of your crypto accounts.
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, this phrase is the only way to recover your assets.
Ledger will display a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words) on your device screen. Write them down exactly on the provided recovery sheet. Never type it into a computer or phone.
9. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
Ledger Live will ask you to confirm your recovery phrase by selecting words in order. This verifies that you copied it correctly.
10. Finish Setup in Ledger Live
Once your recovery phrase is confirmed, Ledger Live will finalize setup and take you to the dashboard where you can manage your crypto.
Installing Cryptocurrency Apps
With your Ledger Wallet initialized via Ledger.com/Start® and Ledger Live installed, the next step is adding apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage:
- Open **Ledger Live**.
- Go to the **“Manager”** section.
- Connect and unlock your Ledger Wallet.
- Find the crypto app you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
- Click **Install**.
Once installed, you can add accounts in Ledger Live and begin receiving funds.
Sending and Receiving Crypto With Ledger Live
Ledger Live lets you securely send and receive assets while keeping private keys offline:
Receiving Crypto
- Go to **“Receive”** in Ledger Live.
- Select the appropriate account.
- Confirm the wallet address on your Ledger device screen.
- Copy the address and share it with the sender.
Sending Crypto
- Go to **“Send”**.
- Enter the recipient’s address.
- Choose the amount.
- Confirm details and validate the transaction on your Ledger device.
Security Best Practices
Your Ledger Wallet is secure by design, but these habits will keep your crypto safer:
- Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it.
- Only download Ledger Live from the Ledger official site.
- Enable extra security features like passphrase protection if you understand how they work.
- Keep your device firmware up to date via Ledger Live.
- Store your recovery sheet in a secure, offline location.
If you lose your Ledger device, you can restore access using your recovery phrase on a new hardware wallet (Ledger or another compatible device). This is why protecting the recovery phrase is essential.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues during the setup on Ledger.com/Start®, try these resolutions:
- Make sure your browser is up to date.
- Use the official Ledger USB cable; faulty cables can interrupt connection.
- Restart Ledger Live and reconnect your device.
- Refer to Ledger’s official support if prompted errors persist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Recovery Phrase?
The recovery phrase is a list of words that represents your private keys. It’s your only backup and should be kept secret.
Can I Use Ledger Wallet With Mobile?
Yes. Ledger Live mobile supports Bluetooth connection for compatible devices like Ledger Nano X.
Is Ledger Wallet Safe?
Yes. A Ledger Wallet stores private keys offline in a secure chip, significantly reducing exposure to online threats.