Ledger.com/start | Official Getting Started Guide
A Complete, User-Friendly Introduction to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
Cryptocurrency ownership gives you freedom, independence, and complete control over your digital assets — but it also comes with responsibility. Unlike traditional banking, your crypto security rests entirely in your hands. That’s why millions of users worldwide trust Ledger hardware wallets to protect their digital wealth.
If you’ve just purchased a Ledger device or are preparing to unbox it, Ledger.com/start is the official, verified, and secure onboarding page that ensures you complete the setup correctly and safely. This guide expands on that onboarding experience and walks you through every step, making your start with Ledger smooth, secure, and stress-free.
1. Why Ledger?
Ledger is known globally for offering some of the most secure hardware wallets on the market. These devices use a Secure Element chip, similar to the technology found in passports and high-security banking cards. By storing your private keys offline, Ledger creates a protective shield against hacking, malware, spyware, and phishing attempts.
Key advantages of Ledger hardware wallets include:
Cold storage protection for private keys
Full ownership of your digital assets
Compatibility with 5,500+ cryptocurrencies
Easy management through the Ledger Live app
Backup and recovery using a 24-word recovery phrase
Durable and portable hardware designed for long-term use
Whether you are new to crypto or already investing, Ledger provides trusted, battle-tested security for your portfolio.
2. Visit the Official Ledger Start Page
Your very first step is to go to the official setup URL:
This page ensures that you:
Use only verified Ledger software
Avoid fraudulent or malicious imitation websites
Follow the correct process for your specific device model
Learn how to manage your wallet safely
Once on the page, you’ll select your Ledger model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax) and begin the guided instructions provided.
3. Download Ledger Live — Your Crypto Management App
Ledger Live is the central dashboard for all your crypto activities. It’s available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
What you can do with Ledger Live:
Set up and initialize your wallet
Install crypto applications
Create and manage crypto accounts
Buy, sell, or swap assets (via partnered services)
Send and receive crypto securely
View your portfolio value in real time
Stake supported assets for rewards
Manage NFTs on Ethereum and Polygon
After visiting Ledger.com/start, download Ledger Live and install it on your computer or smartphone. When asked, choose "Set up a new device."
4. Unbox and Connect Your Ledger Device
Once you launch the setup:
Connect your Ledger device using the USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X/Stax).
Follow the instructions displayed on both Ledger Live and your device screen.
Confirm that your device is genuine — Ledger Live will run an automatic authenticity check.
If your device fails the authenticity test, stop immediately and contact Ledger support. Authenticity verification is one of the most crucial safety steps in protecting your crypto.
5. Create Your PIN Code
Your Ledger wallet will prompt you to set a PIN code, typically between 4 and 8 digits. This PIN prevents unauthorized access to your wallet in case your device is lost or stolen.
Tips for creating a strong PIN:
Avoid birthdays, repeated numbers, or predictable patterns
Do not share your PIN with anyone
Write it down and store it in a secure, offline location
If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device and restore access using your Recovery Phrase.
6. Secure Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will generate a unique 24-word Recovery Phrase.
This phrase is the master key to your crypto.
It can restore your wallet and funds on any Ledger device if yours is lost, damaged, or reset.
Follow these essential safety rules:
Write down all 24 words on the Recovery Sheet provided
Do not store it in your phone, computer, cloud storage, or email
Do not take photos or screenshots
Do not share it with anyone — ever
Store it in a fireproof, waterproof, and secure place
If someone else gains access to your 24-word phrase, they can control your entire crypto portfolio. Ledger will never ask you for it.
7. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
After writing down the phrase, your device will ask you to confirm the words in the correct order.
This ensures accuracy and avoids future recovery issues.
This step is critical — a single incorrect word or wrong spelling can prevent recovery later.
8. Install Crypto Apps on Your Device
Each cryptocurrency requires a specific application installed on your Ledger wallet.
To add apps:
Open Ledger Live
Navigate to My Ledger
Unlock your device
Install the apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, etc.)
Your Ledger device can store multiple apps depending on available storage. You can uninstall and reinstall apps at any time without affecting your assets.
9. Add Crypto Accounts in Ledger Live
Crypto “accounts” help organize and view your holdings.
To add an account:
Go to Accounts → Add Account
Choose your cryptocurrency
Open the matching app on your Ledger device
Allow Ledger Live to synchronize
Add the account
You will now see your balances, history, and portfolio overview.
10. Receive Crypto Securely
To receive crypto:
Select an account
Click Receive
Generate your wallet address
Verify the address on both Ledger Live and your Ledger device
Only send funds after confirming that both addresses match precisely. This prevents tampering or malware-based address manipulation.
11. Send Crypto Safely
Sending is just as secure:
Choose Send
Enter the recipient’s address
Enter the amount
Review fees
Confirm the transaction physically on your Ledger device
Physical confirmation ensures no transaction can occur without your approval.
12. Manage, Grow & View Your Portfolio
Ledger Live gives you several powerful features to enhance your crypto experience:
Swap between currencies
Buy or sell crypto through integrated partners
Stake assets like ETH, SOL, ATOM, and more
View historical charts
Track NFTs
Monitor your portfolio growth over time
Ledger empowers you with complete visibility and control.
13. Keep Your Wallet and Software Updated
Ledger regularly releases updates to improve security, compatibility, and functionality.
Keep both updated:
Ledger Live updates
Device firmware updates
When updating, always use the official Ledger site or app and avoid downloads from unknown sources.
Conclusion
Getting started with your Ledger device through Ledger.com/start is the safest and most reliable way to begin securing your cryptocurrency. By following the official steps—setting up Ledger Live, creating a PIN, recording your Recovery Phrase, adding apps, and managing your accounts—you build a strong foundation for long-term digital asset protection.
A Ledger hardware wallet puts you in complete control. Unlike centralized platforms, there is no middleman, no custodian, and no single point of failure. Your private keys, recovery phrase, and financial independence remain fully in your hands.
Whether you're holding crypto for the long term, actively trading, staking, or exploring the expanding Web3 ecosystem, Ledger provides the robust security and convenience you need.
Start with confidence. Manage with clarity. Protect your future — with Ledger.