This page is a comprehensive, practical and user-focused guide dedicated to Ledger.com/start®. It walks you step-by-step through initializing a Ledger hardware wallet, connecting to the Ledger Wallet™ app (formerly Ledger Live), protecting your recovery phrase and following best security practices so you own and protect your crypto safely.
Why begin at Ledger.com/start®?
Starting at Ledger.com/start® puts you on the official onboarding path designed by Ledger. The page centralizes everything a new Ledger user needs: the official Ledger Wallet™ download links, precise device setup guidance, compatibility checks and links to the Ledger Knowledge Base and Ledger Blog that explain security decisions in plain language.
Because hardware wallets store private keys offline, the correct first steps matter: download official software only, verify device integrity when you open the box, and secure your recovery phrase offline. Following the official start flow reduces risk and avoids common phishing traps.
Before you visit Ledger.com/start® — checklist
Prepare these items before you start the setup flow: a clean computer or phone with updated OS, stable internet for initial downloads, the official Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other official model), and a private quiet space to write and store your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask you for your 24-word recovery phrase — treat it like the key to a safe.
Step-by-step: Using Ledger.com/start® to set up your device
1. Open your browser and go to https://www.ledger.com/start. The official page provides the Ledger Wallet™ (desktop and mobile) downloads, quick start videos, and compatibility details for each Ledger model. From that hub, download the Ledger Wallet™ appropriate for your platform.
2. Connect the device and power it on. Follow the on-device prompts to create a new wallet or restore an existing one. Creating a new wallet generates a new seed phrase (24 words) on the device — never enter the seed into a computer or phone.
3. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the physical card or stainless backup you received with the device. Keep multiple physical copies in secure, separate locations. Do not photograph or store the phrase digitally.
4. Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you will manage using the Ledger Wallet™ app. The app displays recommended providers for buy/swap/stake and shows supported currencies and tokens.
5. Confirm that your device firmware and the Ledger Wallet™ app are up to date via official update checks presented in the app. Ledger’s support and academy pages explain why firmware updates matter for long-term security.
Security & best practices while using Ledger.com/start®
A few non-negotiable security practices: never share your recovery phrase or enter it on websites; always download Ledger Wallet™ from the official Ledger domain or app stores; confirm Ledger support articles and tutorials from official Ledger documentation; and enable device passcodes to protect local access.
Ledger’s official resources emphasize the importance of verifying your device packaging and readiness. If you suspect tampering, contact official Ledger support rather than proceeding with the device.
For users who want extra protection, consider using a passphrase feature (advanced) that effectively creates a hidden wallet — but only adopt this if you understand the operational and backup implications described in Ledger documentation.
Ledger Wallet™ app (formerly Ledger Live) and services
Ledger’s desktop and mobile application provides a unified interface to view balances, install coin apps, and sign transactions securely with your Ledger hardware device. The app also surfaces third-party partner services (on-ramp providers, swap providers, and staking) and clearly indicates which service is handling a transaction. Always confirm transaction details directly on your device screen before approving.
The Ledger Wallet™ app is the recommended official companion to the hardware device; guides and the knowledge base outline each step of the onboarding flow so you know exactly what to expect.
Troubleshooting & support links
If you run into issues during setup—device not recognized, app errors, or firmware warnings—use the official Ledger support center and tutorial pages to diagnose problems. The support site provides model-specific setup instructions, firmware update troubleshooting and recovery guidance.
For deeper learning, Ledger’s blog and Ledger Academy provide security literature, case studies and tutorials that expand best practices for hardware wallet use.
Final thoughts — starting right at Ledger.com/start®
The path that begins at Ledger.com/start® is the fastest route to a secure hardware-wallet experience that is backed by official downloads, stepwise tutorials and Ledger’s knowledge base. When you prioritize official channels, careful backup practices and device-level confirmations, you minimize your exposure to phishing, counterfeit hardware and other common threats.
This page is intentionally practical: adopt the steps above, link directly to the official resources for downloads and step guides, and treat your recovery phrase with the same care you would a high-value physical key.