Ledger.com/start: Complete Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Keeping your cryptocurrency safe is one of the most important steps in your digital-asset journey. Ledger.com/start is the official setup page for all Ledger hardware wallets, including Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, explain the key security principles, and help you begin managing your crypto with confidence.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal created by Ledger. It provides the correct software downloads, device setup instructions, and security information to ensure you activate your Ledger wallet safely and correctly.

Visiting this URL guarantees you are using authentic, official resources, helping protect you from phishing websites or fake wallet software.

IMPORTANT: Always type Ledger.com/start manually into your browser. Never click random links from emails or messages.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

A Ledger hardware wallet is one of the safest ways to store crypto because:

Your private keys stay offline
Your device requires physical confirmation for every transaction
You get strong protection against malware and phishing
Ledger supports thousands of coins and tokens

This makes Ledger an essential tool for anyone holding crypto long-term.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device

Open your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X package. You should see:

The Ledger device
USB cable
Recovery phrase cards
Instruction sheets
Keychain or accessories (depending on model)

HIGHLIGHT: Your recovery sheets must be blank. If anything is pre-written, DO NOT USE THE DEVICE. Return it immediately.

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/start

On your computer or phone:

Open a browser
Type Ledger.com/start
Choose your device model
Follow the setup instructions provided

This page will guide you to download Ledger Live, the official app used to manage your crypto.

Step 3: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

NEVER download Ledger software from any source other than Ledger.com/start.

Once installed:

Open the app
Select “Get Started”
Choose your device
Begin the setup process

Ledger Live will help you initialize the device securely.

Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device

Connect your device to your computer or phone using the USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X).

You will be prompted to:

1. Create a PIN Code

Choose a 4–8 digit PIN.

HIGHLIGHT: Your PIN must be known ONLY to you. Never share it.

This PIN is required every time you use the device.

2. Generate Your Recovery Phrase (24 Words)

This is the most important part of the setup.

Your Ledger will show 24 words in order. Write them down on the provided recovery sheets.

CRITICAL WARNING:
– Do NOT take pictures.
– Do NOT store the words digitally.
– Do NOT share the words with ANYONE.
– Ledger will NEVER ask for your 24 words.

Your recovery phrase is the master key to all your crypto. Anyone who gets it can steal your assets.

Step 5: Confirm the Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm several words from your 24-word list. This ensures you wrote it down correctly.

Double-check your handwriting. The words must be EXACT.

Once confirmed, your device becomes fully initialized.

Step 6: Set Up Ledger Live

In Ledger Live:

Complete the security checklist
Install the apps for the crypto you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
Add your accounts
Receive your first crypto safely

Ledger Live provides:

Balance tracking
Portfolio reports
Secure transaction signing
Staking and swap options (supported assets only)

Step 7: Receive Your First Crypto

To receive assets:

Choose an account (e.g., Ethereum)
Click “Receive”
Verify the address on your Ledger device
Copy and share the address ONLY with the sender

ALWAYS verify the address on the device screen — this protects you from malware that can alter crypto addresses.

Step 8: Send Crypto Securely

When sending assets, Ledger Live will:

Prepare the transaction
Ask you to verify it on your hardware device
Require physical confirmation before it can be broadcast

This ensures no transaction can occur without your approval.

Security Tips for Using Ledger

Here are essential security rules:

✔ Keep your recovery phrase offline and protected

Store it in a secure location. Consider a metal backup for fire/water resistance.

✔ Never share your 24 words

If someone asks, it is a scam.

✔ Use ONLY Ledger.com/start

Do not trust other websites.

✔ Check the device screen every time

Your Ledger’s screen cannot be hacked remotely.

✔ Keep Ledger Live updated

Updates improve security and compatibility.

Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/start is the safest way to activate and use your Ledger hardware wallet. By following the steps above—installing Ledger Live, securing your recovery phrase, verifying addresses on the device, and using proper security practices—you gain full control and protection over your digital assets.