Ledger.com/start | Official Site™

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start — the official Ledger onboarding page for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or transitioning from a software wallet, this guide will walk you through every essential step to secure your digital assets with hardware-based protection.

Ledger devices, developed by Ledger SAS, are trusted by millions of crypto users worldwide. They provide offline key storage — meaning your private keys are never exposed to the internet, keeping your funds safe from hackers, scams, and malware.

What Is Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/start is the official website where you begin the initialization process for any Ledger hardware wallet — including the Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, and Ledger Stax. This is where you download the official Ledger Live app, connect your device, and follow verified setup steps.

Security Tip: Always verify you’re on the correct website — https://www.ledger.com/start — before connecting your device or downloading anything.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

Cryptocurrency wallets come in two main forms — software (hot wallets) and hardware (cold wallets). Hot wallets store private keys online, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. Ledger hardware wallets keep your keys offline, inside a secure chip — ensuring your crypto cannot be accessed remotely.

🔒 Offline Key Storage — your private keys never leave your device.
🛡️ Secure Element Chip — certified against tampering and physical attacks.
🪙 Multi-Asset Support — manage 5,000+ coins and tokens in one place.
⚙️ Ledger Live Integration — easy portfolio tracking and management.
💡 Self-Custody — only you control your assets, not exchanges or apps.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet

Setting up your Ledger wallet takes about 10–15 minutes. Follow these steps carefully to ensure maximum security and a smooth start.

Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start

Go to ledger.com/start. This is the only official page for initialization and downloading the Ledger Live app. Avoid third-party links or unofficial stores, as fake clones can compromise your wallet.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Download the Ledger Live app for your computer or mobile device. Ledger Live is the central platform for managing your crypto, installing apps, and verifying transactions.

Windows, macOS, and Linux versions available
Mobile app available on iOS and Android
Verify digital signatures before installation

Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device

Plug your Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax into your computer using the included USB cable. The device will power on and display welcome text. Follow the prompts on both your device and the Ledger Live app.

Step 4: Initialize and Create a New Wallet

You’ll be asked to either create a new wallet or restore an existing one. Choose “Set up as new device” if this is your first time using Ledger.

Choose “Set up as new device” on your Ledger screen.
Pick a PIN code (4–8 digits). Confirm it on the device.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase — this is your ultimate backup.
Confirm the phrase by selecting words in the correct order on your device.

    Important: Never share or store your recovery phrase digitally. 
    Ledger will never ask for it. Keep it offline and secure — anyone who has it can access your crypto.
  

Step 5: Verify Firmware and Security Settings

Once initialized, Ledger Live will verify your device’s authenticity. This ensures that your device runs official firmware directly from Ledger and hasn’t been tampered with.

Step 6: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

Inside Ledger Live, click “Add Account.” Choose the cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana), then install the corresponding app on your Ledger device. You can now generate wallet addresses and manage funds safely.

Understanding Recovery Phrases

The recovery phrase (also known as a seed phrase) is the foundation of your wallet. It’s a human-readable representation of your private keys. Losing it means losing access to your funds permanently.

Write the words on the provided recovery sheet — don’t print or store digitally.
Store it in a waterproof and fireproof location.
Never type your phrase on a website or app.

For enhanced protection, consider using a metal recovery backup like Ledger Capsule or a third-party steel seed storage.

Ledger Live Overview

The Ledger Live application is your control center for crypto management. It provides:

Portfolio overview with real-time market data
Secure send/receive options verified via hardware
Buy, sell, swap, and stake options for supported assets
Integration with DeFi and NFT platforms
Advanced settings for passphrase and developer options

    Pro Tip: Enable “Developer Mode” in Ledger Live only if you know what you’re doing. It allows installation of beta apps not yet audited for production.
  

Security Fundamentals

Ledger hardware wallets are built with a Secure Element (SE) chip, the same technology used in passports and payment cards. It isolates sensitive data and prevents external access. Combined with PIN protection and user confirmation, your assets remain secure even if your computer is compromised.

All transactions must be approved on the device screen.
Firmware updates must be validated by the Ledger signature.
PIN entry uses an anti-keylogger layout to protect input.
Optional passphrase adds another layer of encryption to your recovery phrase.

Common Setup Issues & Fixes

Device not detected: Try a different cable or USB port. Reopen Ledger Live.
Firmware mismatch: Update Ledger Live and your device firmware.
Stuck on “Update in progress”: Unplug, restart your device, and reconnect when prompted.
App not installing: Ensure you have enough device memory and the latest firmware.

Protecting Against Phishing and Scams

The crypto space is filled with fraudulent sites that mimic Ledger.com. Always double-check URLs, SSL certificates, and download sources. Never give your recovery phrase to anyone — not even Ledger support. Official staff will never ask for it.

Official Domains: ledger.com and ledger.com/start

Advanced Features and Integrations

Compatible with MetaMask, Electrum, and MyEtherWallet
Supports staking for ETH, ADA, DOT, and more
Integrates with DeFi and NFT platforms via Ledger Live
Mobile Bluetooth connectivity (Nano X, Stax)
Open-source codebase for transparency

Ledger Stax and Next-Gen Experience

The latest Ledger Stax introduces an e-ink curved touchscreen, wireless charging, and a sleek card-shaped design. Setup steps remain identical — visit ledger.com/start, download Ledger Live, and pair your Stax via Bluetooth or USB-C for maximum convenience.

Ongoing Maintenance and Best Practices

Update your device firmware regularly via Ledger Live.
Back up your recovery phrase securely and verify it periodically.
Do not connect your wallet to public or shared computers.
Keep Ledger Live updated for compatibility and new features.
Consider setting up a passphrase wallet for additional privacy.

Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/Start is your trusted source for initializing your Ledger wallet the right way. By following these official steps and adopting strong security habits, you can take full control of your digital wealth — safe from exchange hacks, phishing scams, and online threats.

Hardware wallets like Ledger represent true financial sovereignty. Once your setup is complete, you become your own bank — managing, storing, and securing your digital assets independently.

Ready to begin? Visit ledger.com/start, download Ledger Live, and take the first step toward secure crypto ownership.