Ledger.com/start — The Complete Guide to Setting Up and Securing Your Ledger Wallet
Welcome to Ledger.com/start, the official and safest place to begin your journey with a Ledger hardware wallet. This page is designed to help you set up your device correctly, understand the fundamentals of crypto self-custody, and confidently manage your digital assets from day one. Whether you are a beginner taking your first steps into cryptocurrency or an experienced user upgrading your security, starting here ensures you follow best practices every step of the way.
Why Ledger.com/start Matters
In the world of cryptocurrency, security is everything. Unlike traditional banking systems, crypto gives you full ownership of your funds—but with that freedom comes responsibility. If you don’t control your private keys, you don’t truly control your crypto.
Ledger hardware wallets are built to solve this problem by keeping your private keys offline and protected inside a secure chip. Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page that ensures your device is genuine, your setup is secure, and your assets remain under your control.
By beginning at Ledger.com/start, you avoid common risks such as:
Fake apps or counterfeit software
Phishing websites pretending to be Ledger
Improper setup that could compromise your recovery phrase
What You Need Before You Start
Before setting up your Ledger device, make sure you have the following:
A Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X)
A computer or smartphone with a stable internet connection
The official Ledger Live application
A quiet, private space to securely write down your recovery phrase
Taking a few minutes to prepare helps ensure a smooth and secure setup process.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live from the Official Source
Ledger Live is the companion application that allows you to manage your crypto assets securely. From Ledger.com/start, you’ll be guided to download Ledger Live for your operating system, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS.
Ledger Live allows you to:
Set up and verify your Ledger device
Install cryptocurrency apps
Send and receive crypto securely
View your portfolio in real time
Access staking, swapping, and other features
Always download Ledger Live directly through Ledger.com/start to avoid malicious or fake versions.
Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live is installed, connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin initialization.
During this step, you will:
Choose a secure PIN code
Generate a 24-word recovery phrase
Confirm your recovery phrase on the device
Your PIN code protects your device from unauthorized physical access, while your recovery phrase protects your assets in case your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Step 3: Understanding and Protecting Your Recovery Phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the most important element of your Ledger wallet. It is the master backup to all of your crypto accounts.
Key rules for recovery phrase security:
Write it down by hand on paper
Store it offline in a secure location
Never take photos or store it digitally
Never share it with anyone
Never enter it into any website, app, or form
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone who has access to it can control your crypto, so protecting it is critical.
Step 4: Verify the Authenticity of Your Ledger Device
Ledger Live will automatically verify that your hardware wallet is genuine. This process confirms that your device contains authentic Ledger firmware and has not been tampered with.
This authenticity check is a crucial security feature and can only be completed using the official Ledger Live app.
Step 5: Install Cryptocurrency Apps
After your device is verified, you can install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Ledger supports thousands of digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many popular altcoins and tokens.
Each crypto app is installed directly onto your Ledger device via Ledger Live. You can:
Install multiple apps
Remove apps to free space
Reinstall apps without losing funds
Your assets are not stored on the device itself—they remain safely on the blockchain, protected by your private keys.
Step 6: Add Accounts and Start Managing Crypto
Once apps are installed, you can add accounts in Ledger Live. Accounts allow you to receive, send, and track your crypto balances securely.
With Ledger Live, you can:
Receive crypto by generating verified addresses
Send crypto with on-device transaction confirmation
Monitor your portfolio performance
Buy, sell, or swap crypto (availability depends on region)
Stake supported assets and earn rewards
Every transaction must be physically approved on your Ledger device, ensuring full control and protection against unauthorized actions.
Using Ledger with Web3 and DeFi
Ledger devices are not limited to basic storage. They also provide secure access to the broader Web3 ecosystem.
By connecting your Ledger wallet to compatible third-party applications, you can:
Interact with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols
Manage NFTs securely
Use decentralized exchanges
Access blockchain games and Web3 platforms
Even when using third-party apps, your private keys never leave your Ledger device.
Best Practices for Long-Term Security
To maintain the highest level of security over time, follow these best practices:
Always double-check transaction details on your Ledger screen
Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date
Be cautious of emails or messages claiming to be Ledger support
Never connect your wallet to suspicious websites
Store your recovery phrase securely and privately
Ledger’s design ensures that even if your computer or phone is compromised, your crypto remains safe.
Why Millions Choose Ledger
Ledger is trusted by millions of users worldwide and is recognized as a leader in hardware wallet security. Its combination of certified secure hardware, transparent processes, and user-friendly design makes it one of the most reliable solutions for crypto self-custody.
Starting at Ledger.com/start ensures that you are following the official, secure, and recommended setup process.
Take Control of Your Crypto Today
Your crypto represents freedom, ownership, and financial independence. By starting at Ledger.com/start, you take a powerful step toward protecting that future.
Set up your Ledger wallet, secure your recovery phrase, and manage your digital assets with confidence—knowing your keys are protected and your crypto is truly yours.
Self-custody starts here.