What is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding hub for Ledger hardware wallets. It’s designed to walk new users through the essentials: initializing your device, installing Ledger Live software (the companion app for desktops and mobile), creating or restoring a recovery phrase, and securely managing your first accounts. Think of it as the “launch pad” that turns a sealed box into a working cold-storage device for your cryptocurrencies.
Why start at the official page?
Using the official startup page is important because security in crypto starts with source authenticity. Ledger provides verified downloads, official firmware updates, and guided setup steps — which help reduce the risk of counterfeit devices, malicious software, or bad actors intercepting your setup.
- Verified downloads: the page links only to Ledger-approved installers and resources.
- Clear setup flow: step-by-step instructions reduce user error during initialization.
- Security reminders: it highlights best practices around recovery phrases and device care.
What you’ll need before you begin
Prepare a few simple items so the setup goes smoothly:
- Your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or another Ledger model).
- A computer or smartphone with internet access to download Ledger Live.
- A pen and safe paper to write down your recovery phrase — do not store it digitally.
- A secure, private workspace where you won’t be observed during setup.
High-level setup overview
While the exact screens differ by model, the typical onboarding flow that Ledger.com/start helps you complete looks like this:
- Download Ledger Live: get the official app for desktop or mobile from the site.
- Connect your Ledger device: plug in or pair via Bluetooth (model-dependent).
- Create a new wallet or restore: choose to create a fresh wallet (generates a new recovery phrase) or restore from an existing recovery phrase.
- Write down your recovery phrase: record the 24 words exactly and store them offline in a safe place.
- Install apps & add accounts: through Ledger Live you’ll install cryptocurrency apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on the device and add accounts to manage funds.
- Receive & verify: receive a small test amount and confirm it with the device to validate everything is working.
Security best practices
Ledger devices are built for security, but your behavior matters. Keep these best practices front and center:
- Always use official resources: only download Ledger Live and firmware from Ledger’s official site or the link provided at
Ledger.com/start. - Never reveal your recovery phrase: Ledger staff or any service will never ask for your 24-word phrase. Treat it like the keys to a safe — if someone obtains it, they control your funds.
- Write your recovery phrase offline: do not store it on phones, cloud drives, screenshots, or email.
- Keep firmware updated: firmware updates may include important security fixes — update only via Ledger Live.
- Verify addresses on-device: when sending or receiving, always verify addresses on the Ledger screen, not just on your computer.
Common setup pitfalls and how to avoid them
To avoid trouble:
- Double-check URLs to ensure you’re on the official Ledger site.
- Use a dedicated, secure notebook for your recovery phrase and consider a hardware-safe backup like a steel plate if you need fire/water protection.
- Start with a small test transfer before moving large amounts.
Using Ledger Live after setup
Ledger Live is the central interface for your device. From there you can:
- Install or remove cryptocurrency apps on the device.
- Add and manage accounts for multiple blockchains.
- Send and receive cryptocurrencies while verifying transactions with your hardware device.
- Check portfolio balances and transaction history.
Advanced tips
Once comfortable with the basics, consider these advanced tips to level up security and convenience:
- Use a passphrase: optional—but powerful—an additional word added to your recovery phrase to create hidden wallets. Use with caution and make sure you remember it.
- Consider multi-sig: for very large holdings, multi-signature setups split control across multiple devices or parties.
- Cold storage habits: for long-term holdings, keep the device disconnected and only connect it when initiating transactions.
Who should use Ledger?
Ledger is a solid option for users who want stronger protection than software wallets provide, especially if you hold significant crypto value or plan to store assets long-term. It’s equally useful for anyone who values private key ownership and wants an offline-first approach to custody.
Summary
Ledger.com/start is the official gateway to set up your Ledger hardware wallet safely. It centralizes downloads, clear setup steps, and security reminders so you can initialize your device with confidence. Use official resources, secure your recovery phrase, and verify transactions on-device — these habits protect your crypto long after the initial setup is complete.