Ledger.com/start – The Official Setup Guide for Ledger Hardware Wallets

Setting up a new Ledger hardware wallet begins at the verified onboarding page Ledger.com/start. Whether you have a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Nano S, this page directs you to the correct instructions and ensures your device is initialized securely. Below is a completely updated guide to walk you through the process step by step.

Why Start at Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/startis the only official location where new users can access secure setup instructions for their Ledger devices. By using this page, you ensure you're not interacting with fake sites, altered software, or phishing platforms designed to steal recovery phrases.

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Ledger will never ask you to type your 24-word recovery phrase into any website, chat window, or support form. Only your Ledger device should display or verify the recovery phrase.

Before You Begin: Inspect Your Ledger Package

Ledger devices come in sealed packaging designed to prevent tampering. Make sure your box includes:

  • Your Ledger hardware wallet
  • USB cable (varies by model)
  • Recovery sheets for writing your 24-word phrase
  • User and information cards

Ledger devices no longer use tamper-evident stickers. Instead, integrity is verified through secure hardware elements during activation.

Step 1 — Visit Ledger.com/start

Open your browser and type the address manually: Ledger.com/start

This page will route you to the official download link for the Ledger Live application — the software used to initialize your device, install crypto apps, and manage your accounts.

Step 2 — Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is available for:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android & iOS (mobile version)

Download only from the official Ledger website. Avoid downloading Ledger Live from third-party platforms, file-sharing sites, or social media links.

Step 3 — Open Ledger Live and Choose "Set Up a New Device"

After installation, open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger device using the USB cable. Ledger Live will automatically detect your model and provide step-by-step instructions.

Choose the option:
"Set up a new Ledger device"

You will be guided to create a PIN and write down your unique recovery phrase.

Step 4 — Create a Secure PIN

Your device will display on-screen instructions for setting a PIN code. This PIN protects your Ledger from unauthorized access.

Choose a PIN that:

  • Is not easily guessable
  • Has no personal dates or repeating numbers
  • Can be remembered without writing it down

Step 5 — Write Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will now generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is your ultimate backup and must be protected with extreme care.

⚠️ Never store your recovery phrase on a phone, computer, cloud storage, or online notes.
⚠️ Never share it with anyone — not even Ledger support.

Write the words down exactly as shown and keep them offline in a secure location.

Step 6 — Confirm the Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm the words in the correct order. This ensures you copied the phrase accurately.

Step 7 — Install Crypto Apps in Ledger Live

With your wallet initialized, Ledger Live will allow you to install specific cryptocurrency apps depending on which coins you want to manage. Examples include:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • USDT, USDC
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Ripple (XRP)
  • Cardano (ADA)

Each asset requires its own dedicated app on your Ledger device.

Step 8 — Add Accounts and Start Managing Crypto

Once apps are installed, add accounts through Ledger Live. This allows you to:

  • Receive cryptocurrency safely
  • Send crypto using PIN + device confirmation
  • Track your portfolio
  • Use staking features (depending on the asset)

Security Best Practices

  • Always double-check URLs before entering sensitive information
  • Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen
  • Keep your 24-word recovery phrase offline and hidden
  • Enable additional security options like password locks and passphrases
  • Only update firmware through Ledger Live

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet through Ledger.com/start ensures you follow the official and safest onboarding process. With Ledger Live installed, your recovery phrase secured, and your device activated, you gain full control over your digital assets with industry-leading hardware protection.