Why start with Ledger.com/start?
The Ledger hardware wallet is built for long-term, self-custodial storage of cryptocurrency. The dedicated start page is the official on-ramp: it ensures you download Ledger Live (the companion app), follow verified setup instructions, and avoid counterfeit apps or fake downloads. Using the official start flow helps protect your recovery phrase and firmware integrity — critical for keeping your assets safe.
Before you begin: what you need
Unbox your Ledger device and confirm the package seal is intact. You’ll need a modern computer or phone, a USB cable (or Bluetooth if your device supports it), and about 15–30 minutes of uninterrupted time. Have a physical pen and the supplied recovery card ready — do not type your recovery phrase into any website or digital note.
Checklist (quick)
- Genuine Ledger device (check hologram and packaging)
- Official site: ledger.com/start
- Ledger Live app downloaded from the official source
- Paper and pen (or metal backup if you invested in one)
- Patience — never rush the recovery phrase step
Step-by-step: setting up your Ledger hardware
1. Visit Ledger.com/start
Open your browser and type https://www.ledger.com/start — do not click an unsolicited link. The start page walks you through the exact firmware and Ledger Live download you need for your device model. Follow the prompts on-screen.
2. Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile app that manages your accounts and firmware updates. Install it from the official link on the start page, then open the app and create a new profile. Ledger Live will ask whether you’re setting up a new device or restoring an existing wallet.
3. Initialize your device
Power the device and choose “Set up as new device.” You’ll create a PIN (keeps the device locked) and then receive a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). The device displays the recovery words one by one — write them down exactly and in order. Ledger never asks for this phrase over the internet.
PIN and recovery best practices
Create a PIN you can remember but that others can’t guess. Write your recovery phrase on physical media — a notebook, the included card, or a metal backup plate for fire/water resistance. Store at least one copy in a secure location (safe deposit box, home safe); consider geographic redundancy for long-term protections.
Connect Ledger to Ledger Live and add accounts
Once your device is initialized and secured, open Ledger Live. Use the “Add account” flow to add Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other supported assets. Ledger Live communicates with your hardware device to display addresses for verification — always confirm the address shown on the device screen matches the one in the app before sending funds.
Receiving and verifying funds
To receive crypto, generate a receiving address inside Ledger Live. The address appears in the app and on the hardware screen — always check both. This prevents address-replacement attacks by malicious software on your computer.
Tip: small test transfers
When sending funds for the first time, send a small test amount first. Confirm it arrived before moving larger sums. This reduces the risk of mistakes or misconfigured addresses.
Troubleshooting & updates
Firmware and app updates
Keep both your Ledger’s firmware and Ledger Live app up to date. Ledger Live will prompt updates when necessary — updates may include security fixes. When updating firmware, ensure the device remains connected and never power it off mid-update.
Lost device or forgotten PIN
If you forget the PIN, the device can be reset — but your funds are still recoverable with your recovery phrase. If your recovery phrase is lost, the situation is critical and restoration is impossible; that’s why the phrase backup is the single most important step in the setup.
Security note
Ledger employees or official support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If someone asks for it — it’s a scam. Use the official support page if you need help: Ledger Support.
Advanced tips: multi-account, passphrase, and backups
Using a passphrase (optional)
Ledger devices support adding an extra passphrase on top of the recovery seed. This creates a hidden account. Use passphrases only if you understand how they work — losing the passphrase is equivalent to losing access.
Organizing multiple accounts
Create separate accounts for different purposes (savings, trading, staking). Ledger Live makes it easy to label and organize accounts so you can track balances without cross-contamination of private keys.
Backups: paper vs metal
Paper backups are cheap, but vulnerable to fire, water, and time. Metal backups are more resilient. Whichever media you choose, ensure redundancy and secure storage (locked safe, safe deposit box, or distributed trusted locations).
Everyday security hygiene
Phishing awareness
Always check the URL for Ledger resources, and don’t click suspicious links. Bookmark ledger.com/start and ledger.com/ledger-live. Consider adding browser extensions that warn of malicious sites, but don’t rely on them exclusively.
Safe device usage
Only connect your Ledger device to trusted computers. Avoid public or untrusted machines. If you must use a public computer, consider a clean environment (e.g., a freshly booted, offline machine) or use your mobile device with Ledger Live Mobile.
Further learning & official resources
Explore Ledger Academy for deeper guides, or reach out through official channels when in doubt. Below are the same official links listed above so you can click through for more in-depth instructions, downloads, and support.
Quick troubleshooting checklist
- Device not recognized — try another USB cable/port and ensure Ledger Live is updated.
- Firmware update stuck — keep device connected, do not power off; consult support if unsure.
- Recovery phrase missing — attempt to locate physical backup; use any metal/paper backups first.
- Suspected scam — immediately move funds to a new wallet if you're worried your recovery phrase was exposed.
Final words
Setting up your Ledger hardware with care is the most important step toward secure self-custody. Use the official start page, protect your recovery phrase, update firmware, and verify addresses on the device screen. With these practices, you’ll drastically reduce the chance of losing access or falling victim to scams.