What is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet — such as the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X. Ledger is one of the most trusted brands in the crypto security industry, offering hardware wallets that securely store your private keys offline, protecting your cryptocurrencies and digital assets from hacks, malware, and online threats.
Using the official setup page is critical because it ensures you follow the legitimate steps and avoid counterfeit devices or phishing sites. Ledger.com/start provides step-by-step guidance, downloadable software links, and important security reminders to help you securely initialize your device.
Why Should You Use Ledger?
Storing your crypto on an exchange or software wallet exposes you to risks like exchange hacks, phishing attacks, or malware that can steal your private keys. A Ledger hardware wallet isolates your keys from the internet. This means even if your computer is compromised, your crypto remains safe.
Ledger wallets use a certified Secure Element chip (like the ones used in passports and payment cards) and have a custom OS (BOLOS) to protect your keys. Pairing this hardware security with the official Ledger Live app ensures you have full control over your crypto while being able to manage it easily.
Getting Started: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Unbox and Inspect Your Device
When you open your Ledger package, make sure it hasn’t been tampered with. The device should come in a sealed box with no pre-set recovery phrase — Ledger never provides one. If you find a recovery sheet with words already written, stop immediately and contact Ledger support.
2. Go to Ledger.com/start
Visit Ledger.com/start — only use the official URL. Here, you’ll select your device model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other) to get tailored instructions.
3. Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion app that lets you initialize your wallet, install crypto apps, and manage assets. Download it only from the official site to avoid fake versions. Ledger Live is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.
4. Set Up Your Device
Connect your device to your computer or phone using the provided USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X). Follow the on-screen steps: choose “Set up as new device” to generate new keys.
5. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase — this is your master backup. Write it down on the recovery sheet provided and store it securely offline. Never share it with anyone, and never store it digitally. Anyone with these 24 words can access your crypto.
6. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
The device will ask you to verify your recovery phrase by selecting each word in order. This ensures you wrote it down correctly.
7. Install Apps and Add Accounts
Using Ledger Live, install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Add accounts so you can receive, send, and track balances.
8. Stay Up-to-Date and Safe
Ledger frequently releases firmware updates for security. Always check Ledger Live for updates and never disclose your recovery phrase — not even to Ledger support.
Final Tips
By starting at Ledger.com/start, you reduce the risk of falling victim to fake sites or unsafe instructions. Take your time, double-check each step, and make sure your recovery phrase is backed up safely.