Ledger.com/start | Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
ledger.com/start is the official, secure gateway to initialize your Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax hardware wallet. This guide provides the definitive, step-by-step process to ensure your cryptocurrency assets are protected from the moment you unbox your device. Following the official procedure at ledger.com/start is non-negotiable for maintaining the security promises of a hardware wallet.
What You'll Need Before Starting
Your new Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax).
A USB cable (included in the box). Note: Nano X and Stax also support Bluetooth setup with the Ledger Live mobile app.
A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or a smartphone (iOS or Android).
A stable internet connection to download Ledger Live.
The recovery phrase sheet from your box and a pen.
Approximately 20-30 minutes of focused time in a private setting.
Your Step-by-Step Setup Guide via ledger.com/start
Step 1: Navigate to the Official Setup Portal
Open your browser and go directly to ledger.com/start.
Critical Security Note: Always type this URL yourself or use a trusted bookmark. Do not click on search ads or links from emails to avoid phishing sites. This is your first and most important security step.
Step 2: Download & Install Ledger Live
The ledger.com/start page will automatically detect your operating system.
Click "Download Ledger Live" to get the official manager application.
Install the application on your computer or phone. Ledger Live is your secure interface to manage your device, install apps, and view your portfolio—it never holds your private keys.
Step 3: Initialize Your New Device
Connect your Ledger device to your computer via the USB cable.
For Nano X/Stax users: You may also choose "Set up with Bluetooth" within the mobile app.
Follow the on-screen prompts in Ledger Live. You will be asked to choose "Set up as new device."
Your device will generate its core security element: a 24-word recovery phrase.
Step 4: Securely Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device screen will display words one at a time.
Using the provided card and a pen, write down each word in exact order on your recovery sheet. Do not type it on a computer or phone. Do not take a photo.
This phrase is your master key. It allows you to recover all your assets if your Ledger is lost or broken. Anyone with this phrase has complete control over your funds.
Triple-check for accuracy. A single mistake will make recovery impossible.
Step 5: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase & Set a PIN Code
Your device will then ask you to reconfirm random words from your list. This verifies you recorded it correctly.
Next, set a secure PIN code (4 to 8 digits) directly on the Ledger device's screen. This PIN is required every time you connect your device, providing a first layer of physical security.
Step 6: Install Blockchain Apps & Add Accounts
With your device set up, use Ledger Live's "Manager" tab to install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polkadot). These small apps allow your device to manage different cryptocurrencies.
After installing an app, go to the "Accounts" tab and click "Add account" to create a receiving address. Your private keys remain secure on the device; only public address information is shared with Ledger Live.
Integrated Features & Security Specifications
Offline Private Key Storage: Your private keys, generated during Step 3, never leave the Secure Element chip of your Ledger device. All transactions are signed internally and only the signed transaction is sent to your online device.
Secure Element (CC EAL5+): The same chip technology used in passports and payment systems protects your seed and PIN from sophisticated physical attacks.
Bluetooth Connectivity (Nano X/Stax): Allows secure setup and management via the Ledger Live mobile app without a USB cable. The Bluetooth connection is encrypted and never transmits your recovery phrase.
Support for 5,500+ Assets: Through the app installation process in Ledger Live, you can manage a vast ecosystem of coins and tokens. The device itself secures the keys; the apps enable the functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is ledger.com/start the only safe way to set up my Ledger?
A: Yes. ledger.com/start is the official source for the genuine Ledger Live application. Downloading software from any other source carries a high risk of installing malicious code designed to steal your recovery phrase and funds.
Q: What if I lose my 24-word recovery phrase?
A: If you lose your recovery phrase and your Ledger device is lost, broken, or becomes unusable, your funds will be permanently inaccessible. No one, including Ledger Support, can recover it for you. Store it like the most valuable item you own, ideally on metal backups in secure locations.
Q: Can I use my Ledger with a mobile phone?
A: Yes. The Ledger Nano X and Ledger Stax support Bluetooth connectivity with the Ledger Live mobile app for iOS and Android. The Nano S Plus can connect to Android phones via USB OTG cable.
Q: What's the difference between the Ledger Nano S Plus and Nano X?
A: The primary differences are connectivity and storage. The Nano S Plus connects via USB only and has storage for 3-10 apps. The Nano X adds Bluetooth for mobile use and has larger storage for up to 100 apps. Both share the same top-tier Secure Element chip.
Q: Is my crypto stored on the Ledger device itself?
A: No. Your cryptocurrency always exists on its respective blockchain. Your Ledger device securely stores the private keys that prove ownership and allow you to sign transactions to spend or move those assets.
Q: What should I do if my Ledger is lost or stolen?
A: Your funds are safe as long as your 24-word recovery phrase is secure. Simply acquire a new Ledger device, select "Restore from recovery phrase" on ledger.com/start, and input your 24 words. Your complete portfolio and all accounts will be restored.
Conclusion
The ledger.com/start process is engineered to establish an unbreakable foundation of security for your digital assets. By meticulously following these official steps—generating your recovery phrase offline, safeguarding it physically, and managing your assets through verified apps—you leverage the full power of Ledger's hardware security. This setup is not just a one-time task; it is the critical implementation of a long-term security strategy for the decentralized world. Welcome to securing your sovereignty.