Ledger.com/Start — Setup That Puts You in Control

Welcome to the easiest and most secure way to start using your Ledger hardware wallet. This guide walks you through initializing the device, safeguarding your recovery phrase, and connecting with Ledger Live to manage your crypto confidently.

What is Ledger Start?

Ledger Start (accessible via Ledger.com/start) is the official onboarding flow that helps you transform a brand-new Ledger device into your secure portal for managing digital assets. Whether you own a Ledger Nano, Stax, or another model, the steps remain consistent: initialize your device, generate a recovery phrase, verify it, install the Ledger Live companion app, and begin adding accounts. The process is built to be approachable for newcomers while incorporating strict security measures to minimize common setup errors.

Before You Begin

Before you get started, ensure you have everything you need: your Ledger device, a reliable USB cable or compatible connection, and pen and paper for recording your recovery phrase. Double-check that the packaging is sealed and untampered. Use only trusted computers or mobile devices—never public or shared machines. When prompted, download Ledger Live exclusively from Ledger.com/start to avoid fraudulent or malicious versions. Finally, prepare to follow all on-screen prompts and verify every action on your Ledger device’s screen to ensure authenticity.

Step-by-Step Setup Overview

1. Power on your Ledger and choose “Set up as new” (unless recovering).
2. Choose a PIN you will commit to memory but others cannot guess.
3. Write down the recovery phrase exactly as displayed—never type or photograph it.
4. Confirm the phrase when prompted by the device.
5. Install Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start and pair it with your device.
6. Update the firmware if prompted to ensure you have the latest security fixes.
7. Add accounts for the cryptos you plan to use and test receiving a small amount first.
8. Verify every receiving or sending address directly on your device screen before confirming.

Why Use a Hardware Wallet?

When you own your private keys, you control your crypto. Software wallets are convenient but vulnerable to malware or phishing attacks. A hardware wallet like Ledger isolates your keys inside a secure element that never leaves the device. Even if your computer is compromised, attackers cannot sign transactions or move funds without physical access and your PIN. Ledger Start supports you in cultivating safe habits—checking addresses on the device, keeping firmware updated, and storing your recovery phrase offline.

Best Practices for Your Recovery Phrase

Treat your recovery phrase as the master key to your assets. Store it offline in multiple secure locations, and consider writing it on fire- and water-resistant materials. Never digitize it or share it with anyone—even if someone claims to be support. Remember: if someone obtains your phrase, they can control your funds. Ledger.com/start emphasizes these practices to help you avoid common pitfalls and threats.

Connecting Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the essential companion application that lets you view balances, add accounts, and approve transactions safely. After you complete the device initialization via Ledger Start, open Ledger Live (downloaded from Ledger.com/start), pair it, and select which asset apps to install. When sending or receiving, always verify addresses on the device display before approving. The app will also guide you through firmware updates, security reminders, and optional features based on your usage.

Recovering an Existing Wallet

If you already own a Ledger recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet instead of setting up from scratch. During initialization, select “Restore from recovery phrase,” enter each word carefully, and connect to Ledger Live to reinstall necessary apps. If your previous phrase was exposed or lost, consider rotating to a new one by moving assets to a newly secured setup. This process can be safely followed via instructions from Ledger.com/start.

Common Questions

What if I forget my PIN? Use your recovery phrase to restore access on a fresh device. Without the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.

Can I use Ledger on multiple computers? Yes. Ledger Live can be installed on multiple machines. Your accounts are restored by connecting your hardware device—private keys never leave the device.

Is Bluetooth safe? On supported models, Bluetooth is used only for transport. All critical approvals still happen on the device itself. Always verify prompts on the hardware.

Troubleshooting Tips

If Ledger Live doesn't detect your device, try using a different USB port or cable, restart your system, or upgrade to the latest version of the software. For firmware update failures, ensure the device remains connected and follow on-screen instructions carefully. If app installation fails, close conflicting background programs and retry. When in doubt, restart the sequence and follow the official Ledger.com/start guidance.

Next Steps

After setup, explore features like staking, integrations with decentralized applications, and advanced configurations. But always return to Ledger.com/start for updated instructions or support. Bookmark it as your trusted source. Safety is not a one-time setup—it’s a continuous practice.

Get Started Now

Ready to secure your crypto? Begin your journey at Ledger.com/start. Follow the official setup steps tailored for your device model. With your hardware device configured, recovery phrase backed up, and Ledger Live connected, you’ll be ready to receive, transact, and grow your portfolio with confidence and control.