Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started with Ledger Wallet

Ledger Live Setup Guide – Ledger.com/start

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, this page provides the step-by-step process to securely initialize your device, install Ledger Live, and begin managing your cryptocurrency safely.

Using the official setup process ensures your wallet is genuine, your firmware is up to date, and your recovery phrase is generated securely.


What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official setup portal designed to guide users through:

  • Installing Ledger Live
  • Initializing a new device
  • Restoring from a recovery phrase
  • Setting up security features
  • Verifying device authenticity

It is critical to use only the official setup process to avoid phishing scams or counterfeit devices.


Step-by-Step Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup

1️⃣ Unbox and Inspect Your Device

Make sure your Ledger device is sealed and has not been tampered with. Ledger devices do not come with a pre-written recovery phrase. If you see one in the box, do not use the device.

Supported devices include:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus
  • Ledger Nano X

2️⃣ Download Ledger Live

Install Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile device.

Ledger Live allows you to:

  • Manage crypto assets
  • Install blockchain apps
  • Send and receive funds
  • Track portfolio performance
  • Buy, swap, and stake supported coins

Always download Ledger Live from the official source to ensure security.


3️⃣ Initialize Your Device

When you connect your Ledger device:

  • Choose “Set up as new device”
  • Create a secure PIN (4–8 digits)
  • Confirm PIN on the device

Your PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized physical access.


4️⃣ Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase.

Important security rules:

✔ Write it on the provided recovery sheet
✔ Keep it offline
✔ Never share it
✔ Never store it digitally
✔ Never take a screenshot

This recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. If someone gains access to it, they can control your assets.


5️⃣ Confirm Recovery Phrase

You will be asked to confirm selected words from your recovery phrase. This ensures you have copied it correctly.

After confirmation, your device setup is complete.


Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

🔐 Offline Private Key Storage

Your private keys are generated and stored inside the device.

🛡 Physical Transaction Confirmation

Every transaction must be approved by pressing buttons on your Ledger device.

💻 Protection from Malware

Even if your computer is compromised, attackers cannot access your private keys.

🔑 Secure Element Chip

Ledger devices use certified secure element technology to protect cryptographic secrets.


Adding Crypto Accounts

After setup:

  1. Open Ledger Live
  2. Install blockchain apps (e.g., Bitcoin or Ethereum)
  3. Add accounts
  4. Start receiving crypto

Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • XRP
  • ERC-20 tokens
  • Many other digital assets

Restoring an Existing Wallet

If you already have a recovery phrase:

  • Select “Restore from recovery phrase”
  • Enter your 24 words directly on the device
  • Set a new PIN

Your accounts and balances will reappear in Ledger Live once synchronized.


Security Best Practices

✔ Only use official Ledger setup links
✔ Never share your recovery phrase
✔ Verify transaction details on your device screen
✔ Keep firmware updated
✔ Store recovery phrase in a fireproof safe
✔ Consider using a passphrase for advanced security


Common Setup Issues & Solutions

❌ Device Not Recognized

  • Try a different USB cable
  • Update Ledger Live
  • Restart your computer

❌ Wrong PIN

  • After three incorrect attempts, device resets
  • Restore using recovery phrase

❌ Firmware Update Required

  • Follow instructions in Ledger Live
  • Never install firmware from unofficial sources

Ledger Nano S Plus vs Ledger Nano X

FeatureNano S PlusNano X
BluetoothNoYes
Mobile SupportLimitedFull
Storage CapacityHighHigh
BatteryNoYes

Both devices offer the same core security model, with differences in connectivity and portability.


Final Thoughts

Using Ledger.com/start ensures your hardware wallet is initialized securely and correctly. A Ledger device provides industry-leading protection for digital assets by keeping private keys offline and requiring physical confirmation for transactions.

Whether you are a beginner entering crypto for the first time or an experienced investor managing multiple assets, Ledger hardware wallets combined with Ledger Live offer a reliable and secure way to protect your funds.

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