Ledger.com/start – Begin Your Secure Crypto Journey
Welcome to Ledger.com/start, your official step-by-step guide to setting up, securing, and managing your crypto assets with confidence. Whether you're a beginner purchasing your first Ledger device or an experienced user looking to optimize your security setup, this page will walk you through everything you need to get started the right way.
Cryptocurrency security begins with ownership of your private keys, and Ledger devices are designed to help you keep those keys offline, protected from digital threats. Follow the detailed instructions below to install Ledger Live, initialize your device, create your recovery phrase, and start managing your crypto portfolio safely.
1. What You Need Before Getting Started
Before you begin the setup process on Ledger.com/start, make sure you have:,A genuine Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax),A computer or mobile device compatible with Ledger Live,A USB cable for the initial connection,A secure, private environment to write down your recovery phrase,A few minutes of uninterrupted time
Tip: Never use a Ledger device if the recovery sheet already has words written on it. Your 24-word recovery phrase must always be generated by your device during setup.
2. Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the central application for managing your crypto assets, checking balances, installing apps, and sending/receiving transactions.
Steps to Download Ledger Live:
Click “Download Ledger Live” on the Ledger.com/start page.
Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS).
Install the application by following on-screen prompts.
Launch Ledger Live and choose “Get Started.”
Verify Ledger Live
Always ensure you're downloading Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. This prevents phishing risks and ensures your wallet operates securely.
3. Initialize Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live is installed, plug your Ledger device into your computer or open Bluetooth pairing if you're using a Ledger Nano X.
Initial Setup Steps:
Select “Set up as new device.”
Choose and confirm a PIN code (4-8 digits).
Your Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase.
Carefully write the words on the provided recovery sheet in the correct order.
Confirm your recovery phrase on the device.
Important Security Notes
Never share your recovery phrase.
Ledger will never ask for it—not in email, not online, and not through support.
Anyone with your 24 words can access your crypto.
4. Verify Your Device on Ledger Live
After initialization, Ledger Live will ask you to verify that your device is genuine.
This process ensures your Ledger:
Is not counterfeit
Has not been tampered with
Is running secure Ledger firmware
Click “Check My Device” in Ledger Live and follow the instructions.
5. Install Crypto Apps on Your Ledger Device
Your Ledger device supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies. To manage each asset type, you must install the corresponding app.
How to Install Apps:
Open Ledger Live
Navigate to “My Ledger”
Connect and unlock your device
Find the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana)
Click Install
Apps are lightweight and can be removed/added anytime without affecting your funds.
6. Add Accounts in Ledger Live
Apps allow crypto support, but accounts allow you to see balances and manage transactions.
To Add an Account:
Go to “Accounts”
Click “Add Account”
Select an asset
Confirm on the Ledger device
Finish setup and your account will appear in Ledger Live
7. Receive Your First Crypto
To receive cryptocurrency, you’ll generate a unique Ledger-secured address.
Steps:
Click “Receive” in Ledger Live
Select the account
Verify the address on your Ledger screen
Copy or scan the QR code
Send funds to the address
Always verify addresses on the device — this protects you from malware.
8. Send Crypto Safely
Ledger Live allows secure outbound transactions.
To Send Crypto:
Go to “Send”
Enter the destination address and amount
Confirm details
Approve the transaction on your Ledger device
Because your private keys never leave the device, transactions are always signed securely.
9. Buy, Sell, Swap, and Stake Crypto
Ledger Live integrates partners that allow you to:
Buy crypto directly with a card or bank transfer
Swap coins instantly across multiple chains
Stake assets like ETH, DOT, ATOM, and SOL
Grow rewards while keeping keys offline
All operations are protected by the hardware wallet.
10. Secure Your Recovery Phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the ultimate key to your crypto wealth.
Best Practices:
Store it offline in multiple secure locations
Never take photos or type it into a computer/phone
Consider a metal backup for fire/water-resistance
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, the recovery phrase will restore your funds on a new device.
11. Update Firmware Regularly
Keeping firmware updated ensures:
The latest security patches
Support for new cryptocurrencies
Performance improvements
Firmware updates are done safely through Ledger Live > My Ledger.
12. Troubleshooting & Support
Common issues users may encounter:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Device not recognized | Try a new USB cable, different port, or restart Ledger Live |
| PIN forgotten | Reset device and restore using recovery phrase |
| App storage full | Remove unused crypto apps (does not delete funds) |
| Address mismatch | Always trust the address shown on your device |
For additional help, visit the support section or contact official support.
Start Using Your Ledger Securely
You are now ready to explore the world of crypto with enhanced security. Ledger.com/start is your trusted onboarding guide for all device setup steps, best practices, and safe self-custody management.