Taking control of your digital assets starts at one verified destination: Ledger.com/Start — the official onboarding portal created by Ledger for setting up your hardware wallet safely. In an industry plagued by phishing websites and counterfeit apps, beginning your journey through the official link ensures every download, instruction, and security tip comes directly from the source. Whether you are unboxing a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, Ledger Flex, or Ledger Stax, this page is your first line of defense against scams.
Gather the following items to ensure a smooth setup process:
Your Ledger hardware wallet with sealed, untampered packaging
The USB cable included in the box (or Bluetooth capability for supported models)
A computer or smartphone with internet access
A quiet, private space free from cameras and onlookers
A pen and the recovery sheet provided, or a certified metal backup solution
Before powering anything on, examine the box for signs of tampering. The packaging should be intact, and the device should display a welcome screen when first connected — not a PIN entry prompt. If the device asks for a PIN immediately, it may have been pre-configured; in that case, fail the PIN three times to wipe the device and contact Ledger support.
Open your browser and navigate directly to https://www.ledger.com/start. Do not click setup links from emails, social media ads, or search engine results, as these are common phishing vectors. Bookmark the official page for future reference.
From the official start page, download Ledger Live — the companion app that bridges your hardware wallet with your crypto portfolio. Ledger Live is available for:
Windows
macOS
Linux
iOS
Android
Critical: Only download Ledger Live from the official start page or verified app stores. Fake versions are designed to steal recovery phrases and drain wallets.
Launch Ledger Live and connect your device via USB or Bluetooth. The app will detect your hardware wallet and guide you through initialization. Choose "Set up as new device" if this is your first wallet.
Set a unique PIN directly on the Ledger device screen. This PIN acts as your physical lock — choose 4 to 8 digits that you do not use anywhere else. If your device is lost, this PIN prevents unauthorized access.
Your device will generate a 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase. This is the master key to your funds. Write each word in order on the recovery sheet:
Use pen and paper, or a fireproof metal backup
Never photograph, screenshot, or type the phrase into any digital device
Store it in multiple secure, offline locations
Never share these words with anyone — Ledger support will never ask for them
The device will quiz you on random words from your phrase to verify accurate recording. Complete this step carefully; a single wrong word can make recovery impossible.
Return to Ledger Live to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more), add accounts, and begin managing your portfolio. Every transaction you authorize is physically confirmed on your Ledger screen, keeping your private keys offline and out of hackers' reach.
Verify addresses on your device screen before approving any transaction
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to benefit from the latest security patches
Consider a passphrase for an additional layer of protection on sensitive accounts
Test your recovery phrase by resetting the device and restoring from backup before depositing significant funds
Setup Portal: https://www.ledger.com/start
Official Website: https://www.ledger.com
Help Center: https://support.ledger.com
Starting your crypto journey through Ledger.com/Start is not just a recommendation — it is a security imperative. Follow these steps, protect your recovery phrase, and take true ownership of your digital wealth with confidence.