Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger Support
Getting started with a hardware wallet can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re new to digital-asset security. Fortunately, Ledger.com/Start® streamlines the process, guiding users step-by-step through setting up their Ledger device and securing their crypto with confidence. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about using Ledger.com/Start®, from unboxing your device to protecting your recovery phrase, managing assets, troubleshooting issues, and adopting best practices for long-term crypto security.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned investor seeking the safest way to manage digital assets, this guide will walk you through the full Ledger onboarding journey and provide valuable insights that go beyond the basic setup instructions.
1. Introduction to Ledger.com/Start®
Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding portal created for new Ledger device users. Instead of jumping between multiple documentation pages, Ledger provides a single centralized hub where users can:
Set up their new Ledger hardware wallet
Install the Ledger Live application
Initialize and secure their device
Learn how to manage crypto assets
Troubleshoot device-related issues
Access helpful tips on digital-asset safety
It is the gateway to everything required to turn your Ledger device from a piece of hardware into a fully functioning crypto-management system.
Why does this matter? Because the security of your crypto depends heavily on how well the hardware wallet is initialized. Ledger.com/Start® ensures that you avoid mistakes, skip scams, and start your journey correctly.
2. Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
Before diving into the onboarding process, it’s worth understanding why Ledger wallets are popular for securing digital assets.
2.1 Offline Security
Ledger devices store your private keys offline, meaning they never touch the internet—dramatically reducing exposure to hackers, malware, phishing sites, and remote attacks.
2.2 User Control
You retain full control over your crypto. Ledger does not hold your keys, seed phrase, or assets. The device simply allows you to generate and use your own private keys safely.
2.3 Multi-Asset Support
Ledger devices support thousands of coins and tokens, making them ideal for investors with diverse portfolios.
2.4 Compatibility with Popular Blockchains and Apps
Ledger integrates with leading DeFi apps, staking platforms, Web3 tools, and third-party wallets, offering flexibility without compromising security.
3. What You Need Before Visiting Ledger.com/Start®
To begin your setup, gather the following items:
Your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Nano series device)
The included USB cable
A computer or smartphone
A secure environment free of prying eyes
Pen and the recovery phrase sheet included in the box
Make sure the package arrived sealed, untouched, and from an official seller.
4. Navigating Ledger.com/Start®
When you visit Ledger.com/Start®, the page guides you through four main stages:
Choose your device model
Download and install Ledger Live
Initialize your device
Add accounts and manage assets
Below, we break down each step with detailed guidance.
5. Step-by-Step: Installing Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion software that allows you to manage and track your cryptocurrency holdings. It also acts as a bridge between your computer and your Ledger device without exposing your private keys.
5.1 Downloading Ledger Live
On Ledger.com/Start®, click the download button that matches your operating system:
Windows
macOS
Linux
iOS / Android (mobile version)
Always ensure you’re downloading from the official site—not a search engine ad or third-party mirror page. Cybercriminals often create fake versions of Ledger Live to steal seed phrases.
5.2 Installing the Application
After the download completes:
Open the installation file
Follow the on-screen prompts
Grant permissions if your OS requests them
Launch Ledger Live
Once open, Ledger Live will guide you through the initial onboarding process, including selecting your device model and starting the setup wizard.
6. Initializing Your Ledger Device
After installing Ledger Live, the next step is initializing your hardware wallet.
You’ll typically be prompted to choose:
Set up as new device
Restore from recovery phrase
Below is the process for setting up as a new device.
6.1 Choose “Set Up as New Device”
This generates a brand-new private key—never shared, never exposed, and stored securely within the hardware wallet.
6.2 Create a PIN Code
The PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access. You will:
Choose a 4–8 digit PIN
Reconfirm it
Never share or store it digitally
If someone enters the wrong PIN multiple times, the device wipes itself, protecting your assets.
6.3 Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
This is the most important part of the setup.
The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly as shown, in order, on the provided recovery sheet.
Never:
Take photos of the phrase
Store it in cloud storage
Type it into websites
Share it with anyone
This phrase is the only way to recover your crypto if the device is lost or damaged.
6.4 Confirm the Recovery Phrase
The device will ask you to re-enter or select certain words from your phrase, ensuring accuracy.
This step prevents errors that could lock you out later.
7. Connecting Your Ledger to Ledger Live
After initialization, connect the device to Ledger Live by USB or Bluetooth (depending on your model). Ledger Live will verify the device and confirm that:
The device is genuine
The firmware is up-to-date
The security elements are intact
If Ledger Live detects any anomaly, it will notify you immediately.
8. Installing Apps on Your Device
Ledger Live allows you to install blockchain apps onto your device. These apps enable your wallet to interact with specific networks.
For example:
Install the Bitcoin app to manage Bitcoin
Install the Ethereum app to manage ETH and ERC-20 tokens
Install other blockchain apps as needed
Your device has limited storage memory, but apps can be uninstalled and reinstalled anytime without losing assets, since coins are managed via private keys, not by the presence of the app itself.
9. Adding Accounts in Ledger Live
To receive or manage assets, you must add accounts. Accounts in Ledger Live correspond to blockchain addresses tied to your device’s private keys.
Steps to add an account:
Open Ledger Live
Go to Accounts
Select Add Account
Choose a blockchain
Connect and unlock your device
Confirm the addition
After adding an account, you can:
View transaction history
Track balances
Receive funds
Send crypto with device confirmation
10. Receiving and Sending Crypto Securely
10.1 Receiving Crypto
To receive funds:
Select an account
Click Receive
Ledger Live will show your address
Verify the address on your Ledger device screen
Always confirm the on-device address visualization to avoid malware-altered addresses.
10.2 Sending Crypto
To send funds:
Select an account
Click Send
Enter the recipient’s address
Confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device
Approve the transaction
The physical button-press approval ensures attackers cannot send funds without your permission.
11. Backing Up and Protecting Your Recovery Phrase
Your recovery phrase is your most critical piece of information. Ledger.com/Start® emphasizes several guidelines for protecting it:
Store the phrase offline
Use a fireproof/waterproof storage method if possible
Never digitize it
Avoid writing it on easily degradable materials
Never share it with anyone—no support agent will ever ask for it
Many users upgrade to metal recovery phrase plates for long-term durability.
12. Keeping Your Device Secure
In addition to securing your recovery phrase, consider these best practices:
Keep your PIN confidential
Update Ledger Live regularly
Update device firmware when prompted
Be cautious of phishing sites and messages
Avoid connecting to untrusted computers
Use passphrase options if you want an additional layer of protection
13. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Ledger.com/Start® also links to support documents covering common onboarding challenges.
13.1 Device Not Recognized
Try:
Using another USB cable
Restarting Ledger Live
Changing USB ports
Updating drivers (Windows)
13.2 Firmware Update Issues
Ensure:
You’re using an official cable
The device is fully charged (if applicable)
You’re using the latest Ledger Live version
13.3 Ledger Live Not Loading
Possible fixes:
Clear cache via settings
Reinstall the app
Ensure antivirus isn’t blocking it
13.4 “Genuine Check Failed”
This can occur due to:
USB issues
Outdated firmware
Outdated Ledger Live
Most issues resolve after updating both the app and device.
14. Safety Tips for Long-Term Crypto Protection
Ledger.com/Start® stresses safe practices that all crypto holders should follow:
14.1 Never Enter Your Recovery Phrase Online
This is the #1 rule. No website, no app, no support agent, and no third-party wallet should ever ask for your phrase.
14.2 Use the Official Ledger Ecosystem
Only download software from the official Ledger site.
14.3 Avoid Phishing Emails and Fake Ads
Cybercriminals often impersonate wallet providers to steal seed phrases.
14.4 Store Your Backup Securely
Keep multiple secure copies, preferably in separate physical locations.
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use Ledger.com/Start® on mobile?
Yes. The page is mobile-friendly and links to the mobile versions of Ledger Live.
Q2: What happens if I lose my Ledger device?
You can recover your assets on a new device using your recovery phrase.
Q3: What if I forget my PIN?
Reset the device and restore it using your recovery phrase.
Q4: Does Ledger store my recovery phrase?
No. The phrase is generated offline and never leaves your device.
Q5: Can someone steal my crypto with my PIN alone?
No. Without the device and the PIN, access is impossible.
16. Final Thoughts
Ledger.com/Start® is designed to simplify the onboarding process for new hardware-wallet users while ensuring the highest levels of security. If you follow the steps carefully—especially around the recovery phrase and device verification—you’ll begin your crypto-security journey in the safest way possible.
Using Ledger hardware gives you full control over your digital wealth, protects you from online threats, and allows you to engage confidently with cryptocurrencies, DeFi platforms, NFTs, and Web3 tools. As long as you maintain proper security hygiene and stay vigilant, your Ledger device can be a long-term fortress for your digital assets.