Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Your Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Device

In the world of cryptocurrency, security is everything. Whether you're holding a few hundred dollars in digital assets or managing an extensive portfolio, protecting your private keys is essential. Ledger.com/Start® exists to guide new users through the process of setting up their Ledger device safely and confidently—ensuring complete control over their assets from day one.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essentials of getting started, explain the role of Ledger hardware wallets, and help you understand how to use Ledger Live, manage crypto assets, and keep your wallet safe.

Why a Hardware Wallet Matters

Unlike software wallets, browser extensions, or exchange-based accounts, a hardware wallet stores your private keys offline. This reduces exposure to online threats such as phishing, malware, and remote hacking attempts.

Ledger devices use a secure element chip—the same technology used in passports and banking cards—to isolate your private keys from potential digital risks. When pairing your device with Ledger Live, you gain a powerful combination of usability and security.

Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start®

Your journey begins at the official setup portal: Ledger.com/Start®.
This is the safest place to begin because it ensures:

You are following the official onboarding steps

You install authentic Ledger Live software

You verify your device and packaging

You follow anti-phishing and security best practices

Always double-check that you are on the correct URL before entering any information. Bookmark the page to avoid spoofed websites or advertisements that redirect you elsewhere.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the central hub where you manage your crypto assets. It provides:

Portfolio tracking

Secure transaction signing

Buy, sell, and swap integrations

Staking options for certain assets

Firmware updates

App installation for different blockchains

Ledger Live is available for:

Windows®

macOS®

Linux®

iOS® (mobile)

Android® (mobile)

Make sure to download only from Ledger.com/Start®—never from third-party sources.

Step 3: Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

Inside your Ledger package, you should find:

Your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X device

USB cable (type varies by model)

Recovery phrase sheets

Instructional cards

Packaging that appears clean, sealed, and untampered

Ledger devices never come with a pre-filled recovery phrase.
If yours includes one already written down—stop immediately; it is unsafe.

Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device

Once connected to your computer or mobile device, your Ledger will guide you through:

1. Creating a new wallet

You will generate a new 24-word recovery phrase directly on the device.

2. Writing your recovery phrase

This phrase is the single most important part of your wallet.

Keep it:

Offline

Private

Secure

Away from phones, cloud storage, and computers

Never share it with anyone—not even support agents.

3. Setting a PIN code

Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized access.

Step 5: Pair with Ledger Live

With your device initialized, Ledger Live will help you:

Verify your recovery phrase

Install the necessary blockchain apps

Add accounts to track your holdings

Synchronize your portfolio

Enable additional security features

Your private keys remain on the device, not in Ledger Live.

Step 6: Add Your Crypto Accounts

Each blockchain requires its own app on your Ledger device. For example:

Bitcoin app → Bitcoin accounts

Ethereum app → Ethereum & ERC-20 tokens

Solana app → Solana accounts

Polygon app → Polygon assets

Ledger Live will walk you through:

Installing the required app

Creating an account

Viewing your balance

Sending and receiving assets securely

Step 7: Sending & Receiving Crypto Safely

When sending or receiving crypto, always verify transaction details:

Address

Amount

Network

Ledger devices require you to confirm transactions physically on the device’s screen, ensuring no malware can alter outgoing transactions without your awareness.

Step 8: Keep Your Device Updated

Firmware updates improve security and add support for new assets.
Through Ledger Live, you can safely:

Update the device firmware

Add or remove blockchain apps

Optimize storage

Never update using unofficial tools.

Best Security Practices for Ledger Users

✔ Keep your 24-word recovery phrase offline

Digital copies can be compromised.

✔ Use a secure location (or multiple) to store backups

Fireproof, waterproof safes are ideal.

✔ Never share your recovery phrase

No legitimate service, support representative, or platform will ever ask for it.

✔ Verify URLs before entering sensitive data

Bookmark Ledger.com/Start® and use it consistently.

✔ Beware of impersonators, fake apps, and phishing

Double-check every download.

What You Can Do with Ledger Live

With Ledger Live and your hardware wallet, you can:

Track portfolio performance

Stake assets like Ethereum, Polkadot, Cosmos, and more

Buy or swap select cryptocurrencies

Connect to Web3 dApps via Ledger extensions and integrations

Securely sign transactions offline

All while keeping your private keys protected.

Troubleshooting Tips

❗ Device not recognized?

Try a different USB cable or port, or update your OS.

❗ Ledger Live not syncing?

Restart the app and ensure you're using the latest version.

❗ Lost your device?

Your assets are still safe if you have your recovery phrase—restore it on a new Ledger.

Final Thoughts: Your Crypto, Your Control

Ledger.com/Start® is the official starting point for securing your digital assets with Ledger. A few minutes of careful setup can give you long-term protection, complete control, and confidence in your crypto journey.

Whether you're a beginner or managing an advanced portfolio, Ledger hardware wallets empower you to interact with the world of digital assets safely.