Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger (Full Beginner’s Guide)

Setting up a hardware wallet is one of the most important steps you will ever take to secure your cryptocurrency. The official onboarding portal at ledger.com/start provides verified download links, setup instructions, and security best practices for new users. Whether you’re unboxing your first Ledger device or upgrading to a new model, understanding the correct setup process ensures your digital assets remain protected from online threats.

This guide walks you through everything from unboxing to your first transaction—giving you clarity, confidence, and security as you begin your self-custody journey.

1. What Is Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/start is the official webpage used to:

• Download the Ledger Live app

• Initialize a Ledger device

• Install or update firmware

• Create and confirm your recovery phrase

• Add crypto accounts

• Perform first transactions

• Access support tutorials

Using this official page ensures you avoid imitation software or malicious phishing links.

2. Before You Start: Inspect Your Device

When unboxing your device, double-check:

• Packaging Integrity

The device should arrive sealed and undamaged. If packaging appears suspicious, stop setup and contact support.

• No Pre-written Recovery Phrase

A legitimate device never comes with a printed recovery phrase. Any pre-written seed card is a red flag.

• Device Displays Setup Prompt

Upon first connection, your device should display an onboarding or welcome message—not an already configured wallet.

3. Step-by-Step: Set Up Your Wallet Through Ledger.com/Start

Step 1 — Visit the Official Start Page

Manually type:

ledger.com/start

Avoid clicking advertisement links or URL variations. Phishing websites often mimic genuine setup portals.

Step 2 — Download the Ledger Live App

At the start page, choose the correct version of Ledger Live for your device:

• Windows

• macOS

• Linux

• iOS / Android (mobile version)

Ledger Live is your central hub for:

• Setup

• Portfolio management

• Sending and receiving crypto

• Staking

• Installing blockchain apps

• Updating firmware

Step 3 — Install and Launch Ledger Live

After installation:

1. Open Ledger Live

2. Select “Get Started”

3. Choose your Ledger device model

4. Follow the guided setup instructions

Ledger Live will walk you through each step in a user-friendly format.

Step 4 — Connect Your Ledger Device

Use the included cable:

1. Connect via USB

2. Follow the on-screen prompts

3. Confirm any device messages

If the device is not recognized, try another USB port or cable and ensure Ledger Live is up to date.

Step 5 — Install the Latest Firmware

If prompted, update firmware.
During this stage:

• Ledger Live downloads the official firmware

• You confirm the update directly on your device

• The secure element verifies authenticity

Never install firmware from any third-party site.

4. Create Your New Wallet

Choose:

“Set Up as New Device”

Your Ledger will then:

• Generate your private keys internally

• Display a recovery phrase word by word

• Ensure no one—including Ledger—sees your private keys

Every wallet created is unique to the user.

5. Your Recovery Phrase: The Critical Backup

Your device will display a 24-word recovery phrase, which acts as your ultimate key to your funds.

DO:

• Write the words down physically

• Keep them in order

• Store them in a secure and private location

• Consider metal backup plates for extra protection

DO NOT:

• Photograph the phrase

• Store it in cloud storage

• Type it into websites or apps

• Share it with anyone

If you lose your device, the recovery phrase is the only way to restore your wallet.

6. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm specific words to ensure accuracy.
This step prevents:

• Spelling mistakes

• Incorrect ordering

• Incomplete backups

Take your time—precision is essential.

7. Create a Device PIN

Next, choose a PIN code to protect your device from unauthorized physical access.

Tips for a Strong PIN:

• Use the maximum length allowed

• Avoid repeating numbers

• Avoid birthdays or patterns

Your PIN should be easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.

8. Add Crypto Accounts in Ledger Live

After setup:

1. Open Ledger Live

2. Navigate to Accounts

3. Select Add Account

4. Choose a cryptocurrency (e.g., BTC, ETH)

5. Let Ledger Live sync the blockchain data

Each account created corresponds to a blockchain app installed on your device.

9. How to Receive Your First Crypto

To receive funds:

1. Open an account in Ledger Live

2. Click Receive

3. Verify the address displayed on your device

4. Make sure the address matches the one on your computer

5. Share the address with the sender

Why verification matters:

Your Ledger’s physical display cannot be tampered with, preventing malicious software from altering your receiving address.

10. How to Send Crypto Safely

To send crypto:

1. Select an account

2. Click Send

3. Enter the receiver’s address

4. Check network fees

5. Confirm the transaction on the device

The device requires physical confirmation, preventing unauthorized remote transfers.

11. Ledger Live Features Worth Exploring

• Portfolio Tracking

View total balance, chart performance, and recent activity.

• Buying & Selling

Purchase crypto through integrated partners.

• Swapping Assets

Swap one crypto for another directly from Ledger Live.

• Staking

Earn staking rewards for supported assets through integrated services.

• App Management

Install blockchain apps (BTC, ETH, SOL, etc.) onto your device with a single click.

12. Advanced Security Options

• Passphrase Wallet (Optional)

Create an additional hidden wallet using a custom passphrase.

• Blind Signing (Advanced Users Only)

Used for smart contract interactions—requires careful understanding of risks.

• Secure Element Protection

Your private keys never leave the hardware device.

13. Troubleshooting Tips

Device Not Recognized

• Use a different USB port

• Try another cable

• Update Ledger Live

• Restart your computer

Firmware Update Errors

• Close and reopen Ledger Live

• Ensure internet stability

• Connect directly without USB hubs

PIN Blocked

After several wrong attempts, the device resets for security.
You can still restore using your recovery phrase.

14. Post-Setup Security Best Practices

To maintain long-term security:

• Keep Your Recovery Phrase Offline

Use safe storage methods like fireproof containers or metal plates.

• Regularly Update Firmware & Ledger Live

Updates deliver new features and enhanced protection.

• Avoid Phishing Attempts

Never share your recovery phrase.
Never enter it into any website or support chat.

• Bookmark the Official Websites

This helps you avoid counterfeit pages.

15. Final Thoughts — Your Journey Begins at Ledger.com/Start

Completing setup at ledger.com/start ensures your device is initialized safely and correctly. With Ledger Live installed, your recovery phrase securely backed up, and your first accounts created, you now hold full self-custody of your assets.