Ledger.com/Start — Complete Setup & Secure Guide

Follow this authoritative, SEO-optimized walkthrough to safely set up your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, create and protect your recovery phrase, keep firmware current, and apply best-in-class security practices for your crypto holdings.

What is Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding portal for Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X). It provides step-by-step, device-verified instructions to initialize a new device, update firmware, install Ledger Live, and create your 24‑word recovery phrase in a secure, trusted environment.

Before You Begin

  • Only use the official URL: https://www.ledger.com/start — avoid links from search results or email.
  • Make sure your computer is updated and free from malware.
  • Have a pen and the recovery sheet ready (do not use your phone camera or take a digital copy of the seed).

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

1. Unbox & Verify

Inspect the outer packaging for tamper-evident seals. Ledger devices ship sealed; never use a device with broken seals.

2. Connect Device & Visit Ledger.com/Start

  1. Connect your Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X).
  2. Open a browser and type ledger.com/start manually to begin.
  3. Follow on-screen prompts — the site will detect your device and guide the secure flow.

3. Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official app for managing your crypto: install it from the link on Ledger.com/Start. Use Ledger Live to install coin apps, manage accounts, perform swaps, and apply firmware updates.

4. Create Your Recovery Phrase (Critical)

The device generates a 24-word recovery phrase (seed). This seed is the ultimate backup of your private keys—losing it means losing access to funds.

  • Write the words on the supplied recovery sheet—no photos, no cloud storage.
  • Store copies in separate secure locations (consider a metal backup for fire/water protection).
  • Never share your seed with anyone; Ledger will never ask for it.

5. Set a Strong PIN and Optional Passphrase

Choose a secure PIN to prevent physical access. Advanced users may enable a passphrase (acts like a 25th secret word) for hidden wallets — powerful but requires careful management.

6. Firmware & App Management

  • Apply firmware updates only through Ledger Live and verify update details on the device screen.
  • Install coin-specific apps via Ledger Live—avoid third-party app installers.

Security Best Practices

  • Always confirm recipient addresses on the device screen before approving transactions.
  • Store recovery phrase offline using fireproof/secure hardware backups.
  • Use Ledger Live and avoid browser extensions for critical operations.
  • Enable a passphrase only if you understand how to manage it properly.
  • Regularly update firmware and apps to receive security patches.

FAQs

Can I recover my Ledger wallet on another device?

Yes — using the 24‑word recovery phrase you can restore your wallet on another Ledger device or any compatible hardware/software wallet that supports the same standards.

What if my recovery phrase is lost or stolen?

If lost — funds cannot be recovered. If stolen, transfer funds to a new wallet with a new seed immediately.

Is Ledger.com/Start free to use?

Yes — Ledger.com/Start and Ledger Live are free. Only the Ledger hardware device is a paid product.

Important: Beware of phishing. Always verify the URL and never provide your recovery phrase to any website, email, or phone call.