Ledger.com/Start: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Ledger Hardware Wallet

As digital assets continue to grow in popularity, securing them has never been more critical. If you've invested in a Ledger hardware wallet—whether it's the Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or the new Ledger Stax—your first step should be visiting ledger.com/start. This is the official starting point for setting up your device safely and correctly.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire setup process, explain what Ledger Live is, and highlight essential security practices every user should follow.

Why Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal provided by Ledger. It ensures that:

  • You're using a genuine Ledger device
  • You're downloading official software (Ledger Live)
  • You're guided through the secure setup process
  • You're avoiding third-party scams, phishing, or faulty apps

Using unofficial links or software is one of the biggest security risks for crypto users. Ledger.com/start helps eliminate that risk.

What You Need Before Starting

Before beginning the setup, gather the following:

  • Your Ledger hardware wallet
  • A computer (Windows/macOS/Linux) or smartphone (iOS/Android)
  • A secure location to store your 24-word recovery phrase
  • A USB cable to connect your device (or Bluetooth for Nano X)

Once ready, head over to https://www.ledger.com/start and follow the instructions.

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet

Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start

Go to the official site. Select your device model to get tailored setup instructions.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application for managing your crypto. It’s available for both desktop and mobile devices.

Download Ledger Live only from: 👉 https://www.ledger.com/start

Step 3: Connect Your Device

Plug in your Ledger wallet or connect via Bluetooth (Nano X only). Launch Ledger Live and click "Get Started."

Step 4: Set Up as New or Restore

Choose whether to:

  • Set up a new device, or
  • Restore from a recovery phrase if you already have one

You’ll be prompted to set a secure PIN code.

Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is your wallet backup—write it down on paper and store it securely offline.

⚠️ Never take a screenshot, photo, or store it digitally.

Step 6: Confirm Recovery Phrase

You’ll be asked to verify the 24 words on your Ledger device to ensure it’s correctly saved.

Step 7: Verify Device Authenticity

Ledger Live checks that your device is genuine and has not been tampered with during shipping.

Introducing Ledger Live: Your Crypto Management Hub

Ledger Live is your main interface for interacting with your Ledger wallet. Once your device is set up, you’ll use Ledger Live to:

  • Add accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
  • Send/receive crypto
  • Track balances in real time
  • Stake assets (ETH, DOT, ATOM, etc.)
  • Install and uninstall crypto apps on your device
  • Access the Ledger ecosystem (NFTs, DApps, swaps)

Ledger Live supports 5,500+ coins and tokens, including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH) and ERC-20 tokens
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Polygon (MATIC)
  • Avalanche (AVAX)
  • Ripple (XRP), and many more

Advanced Features in Ledger Live

  • Ledger Discover: Access Web3 apps, DeFi protocols, and more—all secured by your hardware wallet.
  • Coin Control: Manage which UTXOs are spent in transactions (for Bitcoin).
  • NFT Management: View and manage Ethereum and Polygon NFTs directly within Ledger Live.

Key Security Tips for Ledger Users

  1. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  2. Only use Ledger Live from official sources
  3. Always verify recipient addresses on your Ledger device screen
  4. Regularly update device firmware and Ledger Live app
  5. Beware of fake support sites and phishing emails

If you lose access to your device, your recovery phrase is your only backup. Ledger does not store your keys—you are your own bank.

Common Setup Questions

❓ Can I use Ledger without Ledger Live?

You can use third-party wallets, but Ledger Live is recommended for the best security and usability.

❓ What if I lose my Ledger device?

You can restore your wallet on a new Ledger using the 24-word recovery phrase.

❓ Is Ledger Live free?

Yes. There are no fees to download or use the Ledger Live app.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your device through Ledger.com/start is the most secure and trusted way to begin your crypto journey. Whether you’re new to hardware wallets or upgrading to the next level of digital asset security, the Ledger ecosystem gives you everything you need—starting with a few simple steps.