Ledger.com/Start | Official Guide to Initialize Your Ledger Device

Why Start at Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the **official onboarding portal** provided by Ledger for safely setting up your hardware wallet. This ensures you use verified software, proper instructions, and avoid phishing or fake links.

Skipping this and relying on random guides or downloads can expose you to fake applications, malicious sites, and compromised devices. Always begin at the official source.

Through Ledger.com/start, you’ll get clear steps to:

Download the authentic Ledger Live application
Initialize your hardware wallet
Install apps for specific cryptocurrencies
Add accounts and manage assets
Learn best practices for keeping your funds safe

Setup Steps: From Unboxing to Wallet Ready

1. Unbox & Verify

When your Ledger device arrives, make sure the packaging is sealed and intact. Ledger devices are shipped in tamper-evident packaging. If anything looks suspicious, do not proceed.

2. Visit Ledger.com/start

Open your browser and type ledger.com/start manually (do not click unknown links). Ensure the page is secured (check for HTTPS and a valid SSL certificate).

3. Download Ledger Live

Ledger.com/start will prompt you to download the official companion software, **Ledger Live**, which is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Only download the app from the official site—never from random third-party sources.

Download Ledger Live

4. Initialize Your Device

After installing Ledger Live, connect your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax). Follow the prompts to either:

Set up as a new device
Restore from an existing recovery phrase (if upgrading or migrating)

You will be asked to choose a **PIN code** (4–8 digits). Then the device will generate a **24‑word recovery phrase**, which you must write down on the provided sheet.

Important: Never store your recovery phrase digitally (photo, text, cloud). This phrase is your only backup.

After writing it down, confirm the phrase by selecting words in the correct order on the device to ensure accuracy.

5. Install Cryptocurrency Apps & Add Accounts

Using Ledger Live’s “Manager” section, install the specific app(s) you want – e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.

Then go to “Accounts → Add Account” and choose the currency. Ledger Live will detect your wallet and show balances (if funds exist).

6. Send & Receive Crypto

You are now ready to use your Ledger wallet:

Receive: In Ledger Live, click “Receive,” verify the address on your device, then share it with the sender.
Send: Click “Send,” input the recipient and amount, confirm transaction details on your device, and approve.

Every transaction must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device, which protects against remote malware.

Using Ledger Live & Additional Features

Once your hardware wallet is set up, Ledger Live becomes your control hub. Through it, you can:

Track your portfolio across multiple assets
Swap and trade coins via integrated partners
Buy crypto using fiat on supported regions
Connect to DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 apps (via extensions)
Stake supported cryptocurrencies and earn rewards
Install and remove coin apps on the device

Ledger Live is available for desktop and mobile – giving you flexibility to manage assets on the go.

Security Tips & Best Practices

Ledger and the wider community emphasize security as the foundational pillar. Here are key practices to maintain:

Always type ledger.com/start manually or use a trusted bookmark.
Check for HTTPS and valid SSL certificate before trusting the page.
Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone — not even Ledger support.
Ledger or Ledger Live will never ask you to input your recovery phrase in software or website.
Update firmware and Ledger Live software only through the official app.
Use a strong PIN and never reuse obvious codes (e.g. “1234”, “0000”).
Consider using a metal seed backup or fireproof storage for your phrase.

⚠️ Beware of fake apps or phishing sites. Some users have reported malicious clones asking for the seed phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

For instance, one user reported: > “The real Ledger Live version will never ask you to enter your 24 word recovery phrase. If a Ledger Live application ever asks for this, it’s 100% a scam version designed to steal your funds.” :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Device Not Detected?

Try a different USB cable or port.
Restart your computer and reconnect the device.
Ensure USB drivers are up to date.

Ledger Live Won’t Install / Launch?

Re-download the latest version from ledger.com/start.
Check if your OS version is supported.
Close conflicting apps that might block USB access.

Lost or Damaged Device?

If you still have your 24‑word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new, compatible Ledger device or supported wallet.

Ledger.com Start