Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started with Ledger® Wallet
If you've recently purchased a Ledger® hardware wallet, the safest way to begin your setup journey is through Ledger.com/start. This official onboarding page provides step-by-step instructions to help users initialize their Ledger device, install Ledger Live™, secure recovery phrases, and manage digital assets with confidence.
Whether you're using a Ledger Nano S Plus® or Ledger Nano X®, following the official setup process ensures that your device is genuine and configured according to Ledger's recommended security standards.
Why Start at Ledger.com/Start?
The Ledger.com/start page serves as the official setup hub for all Ledger hardware wallets. It guides users through every important stage of device initialization, including:
Downloading Ledger Live™
Verifying device authenticity
Creating a secure PIN code
Generating and backing up a recovery phrase
Installing cryptocurrency applications
Managing and monitoring digital assets
Beginning with the official setup portal helps reduce the risk of phishing attempts and unofficial software downloads.
Step 1: Download Ledger Live™
The first step is installing Ledger Live™, the companion application used to manage your hardware wallet. Ledger Live allows users to:
View account balances
Send and receive cryptocurrencies
Install blockchain applications
Access staking and portfolio tracking features
Receive firmware updates
For complete installation instructions, visit the Ledger Live Setup Guide.
Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device
After connecting your Ledger wallet to your computer or mobile device, you'll be prompted to either:
Set up as a new device
Restore an existing wallet using a recovery phrase
New users should select Set Up as New Device and create a PIN code. This PIN protects access to the wallet and should never be shared with anyone.
For additional security recommendations, see our Ledger Wallet Security Tips.
Step 3: Secure Your Recovery Phrase
One of the most important parts of the setup process is recording your recovery phrase. During initialization, Ledger generates a unique recovery phrase that serves as the backup to your wallet.
Important best practices include:
Write the phrase on the provided recovery sheet
Store it offline in a secure location
Never share it online
Never photograph or upload it to cloud storage
Anyone with access to your recovery phrase can potentially access your assets. Learn more in our Recovery Phrase Protection Guide.
Step 4: Verify Device Authenticity
Ledger Live automatically performs a genuine check to confirm that your hardware wallet is authentic and functioning properly.
This verification process helps ensure:
The device has not been tampered with
Secure Element technology is functioning correctly
Firmware integrity is maintained
For more information, read How Ledger Genuine Check Works.
Step 5: Install Cryptocurrency Apps
Once your device is initialized, you can install cryptocurrency applications directly through Ledger Live. Ledger supports a wide range of digital assets, including:
Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
Litecoin (LTC)
XRP
Polygon
Solana
Many additional supported assets
Visit our Supported Cryptocurrencies Overview to explore available options.
Managing Your Assets with Ledger Live
After setup is complete, Ledger Live becomes your central dashboard for asset management. Users can:
Monitor portfolio performance
Receive and send crypto securely
Add multiple accounts
Track transaction history
Access staking opportunities where supported
For advanced features and portfolio tools, see the Ledger Live Features Center.
Final Thoughts
Using Ledger.com/start is the recommended way to begin your Ledger® hardware wallet setup. By following the official onboarding process, users can establish strong security practices, safely back up recovery information, and gain access to Ledger Live's powerful management tools.
Always verify that you are using official Ledger resources, keep your recovery phrase private, and regularly update your device firmware. With proper setup and security habits, Ledger hardware wallets provide a trusted solution for safeguarding digital assets.