Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet and getting familiar with Ledger's wallet-management ecosystem. It guides users toward the appropriate Ledger software and setup instructions for their device.
A Ledger hardware wallet is designed to help protect the private keys associated with cryptocurrency accounts. Ledger Live, now known as Ledger Wallet, provides the software interface used to manage supported assets and interact with the hardware device.
Ledger.com/start is Ledger's official onboarding resource for users who are setting up a Ledger device.
Depending on the device and current Ledger software, the setup process can include:
Installing Ledger's official wallet software
Connecting the Ledger hardware wallet
Setting up or restoring the device
Creating a device PIN
Securing the Secret Recovery Phrase
Installing supported blockchain apps
Adding cryptocurrency accounts
Completing device and software security checks
Always use the official Ledger website when beginning the setup process.
Open the official Ledger website and navigate to the start section.
Before downloading any wallet software, carefully verify the website address. Cryptocurrency users should be especially cautious about fake websites that imitate legitimate wallet providers.
Ledger provides wallet-management software for interacting with its hardware wallets. The application has historically been known as Ledger Live, while Ledger now uses Ledger Wallet branding for its software.
Download the application only from official Ledger sources.
Avoid software offered through unofficial download sites, advertisements, pop-ups, or unsolicited messages.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer or compatible device using the appropriate connection method.
Open the official Ledger Wallet application and follow the instructions displayed on screen.
A new Ledger device can generally be configured as a new wallet, while users with an existing compatible wallet may have recovery options.
Follow the instructions specific to your Ledger model rather than relying on instructions intended for another device.
If you are configuring a new device, the setup process typically includes creating a device PIN and generating a Secret Recovery Phrase.
Your PIN helps protect access to the physical Ledger device.
Choose a PIN that is difficult for others to guess and keep it confidential. Never provide your PIN to someone claiming to be customer support.
The Secret Recovery Phrase is one of the most important security components of your wallet.
Write it down carefully using the method recommended by Ledger. Keep the recovery phrase offline and in a secure location.
Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase with anyone.
Do not enter it into a website, online form, email, social-media message, or chat simply because someone claims it is needed to activate or synchronize your Ledger wallet.
Ledger's wallet software provides an interface for managing supported cryptocurrency accounts and interacting with a Ledger hardware wallet.
Depending on the supported asset and service availability, users may be able to:
View cryptocurrency balances
Manage accounts
Receive cryptocurrency
Send cryptocurrency
Review transaction history
Install blockchain applications
Manage device settings
Access certain buying, selling, or swapping services
Features can vary according to device, cryptocurrency, region, and third-party service availability.
Ledger devices use applications associated with different blockchain networks or cryptocurrency ecosystems.
After connecting your device, Ledger Wallet can guide you through installing the applications required for supported assets.
Only install applications through official Ledger software and follow the instructions displayed by the application and device.
When receiving cryptocurrency, use the appropriate account and network.
Before sharing a receiving address, carefully verify it. For important transactions, reviewing the address using your Ledger device can provide an additional verification step.
Always make sure the sender is using the correct blockchain network and asset.
When sending cryptocurrency, carefully verify:
Recipient address
Cryptocurrency
Blockchain network
Amount
Transaction fee
Never approve a transaction simply because someone tells you to do so. Review the information shown by your Ledger device and wallet software before confirming.
Hardware wallets can provide strong protection, but security also depends on user behavior.
Ledger will not need your complete Secret Recovery Phrase to provide ordinary technical assistance.
Anyone who obtains your recovery phrase may potentially gain control of the associated wallet.
Scammers can create fake Ledger websites, applications, emails, and support accounts.
Be suspicious of messages asking you to:
“Verify” your recovery phrase
“Synchronize” your wallet
“Unlock” your account
“Validate” your device
Transfer cryptocurrency for security reasons
Install unknown software
Do not follow such instructions without independently verifying them through official Ledger resources.
Only obtain Ledger software through official Ledger channels. Fake wallet applications can be designed to steal cryptocurrency or sensitive wallet information.
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, your cryptocurrency is not physically stored inside the device. Your wallet is represented on the relevant blockchain, while the recovery information provides the means to restore access.
If you have securely preserved your Secret Recovery Phrase, you may be able to restore your wallet using a compatible device following Ledger's official recovery process.
Because the recovery phrase is so important, never store it in an easily accessible online account or share it with another person.
If your Ledger device is not detected:
Check the physical connection.
Try another compatible cable if appropriate.
Restart the Ledger Wallet application.
Reconnect the device.
Make sure the official wallet software is updated.
Check that your device is supported.
Follow Ledger's official troubleshooting documentation.
If you encounter a request for your Secret Recovery Phrase during troubleshooting, stop and verify the request through official Ledger support resources.
Ledger.com/start is Ledger's official starting point for users who need help setting up a Ledger hardware wallet and accessing the associated software.
Use the official Ledger website and verify the address carefully before downloading software or entering information.
Ledger Live was the name historically used for Ledger's wallet-management software. Ledger now uses Ledger Wallet branding for its wallet application.
Cryptocurrency balances exist on their respective blockchain networks. A Ledger hardware wallet is designed to protect the cryptographic keys used to control associated assets.
Keep your Secret Recovery Phrase private. Never share it with anyone or enter it into an unknown website or application.
Ledger.com/start provides an official starting point for setting up and using a Ledger hardware wallet. The process generally involves installing Ledger's official wallet software, connecting the device, configuring security settings, protecting the Secret Recovery Phrase, and adding supported cryptocurrency accounts.
For a secure experience, always use official Ledger resources, carefully verify transaction details, protect your recovery information offline, and remain alert for phishing websites and fraudulent support requests.