Ledger.com/Start – Complete 1000-Word Setup Guide for Ledger Wallets
Setting up a Ledger hardware wallet is one of the most reliable ways to secure your cryptocurrency. Unlike software wallets connected to the internet, Ledger devices store your private keys in a protected, offline environment. This greatly reduces the risk of hacking, phishing, or unauthorized access. If you’re new to Ledger or want a detailed walkthrough, this guide will help you understand the entire process of using Ledger.com/Start to configure and activate your device.
1. Understanding What Ledger.com/Start Is
When you purchase a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or any other Ledger device, the recommended first step is to visit ledger.com/start. This page serves as Ledger’s official onboarding portal. It provides:
The latest version of Ledger Live, the official management application
Device selection and model-specific instructions
Firmware guidance
Tutorials for securing your recovery phrase
Help resources and security tips
Ledger strongly encourages all new users to begin here because it ensures that you’re following authentic instructions and downloading legitimate software—not counterfeit or phishing malware.
2. Preparing for the Setup
Before connecting your Ledger device, make sure you have the following:
Your Ledger device (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax)
USB cable compatible with your computer or mobile phone
A computer or smartphone running a supported operating system
A pen and paper for writing your 24-word recovery phrase
A safe, private environment with no cameras or people around
Your recovery phrase is the most critical security element of a Ledger wallet, so preparing in a distraction-free space helps prevent mistakes.
3. Downloading and Installing Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the hub for managing your crypto assets. From ledger.com/start, click the download button that matches your system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android). Always verify that you’re on the correct website by checking the URL and HTTPS security lock.
Once downloaded:
Install Ledger Live by following the prompts.
Open the application after installation.
Choose "Get Started" to begin the initialization process.
Ledger Live will guide you through pairing your device, installing apps, and managing accounts.
4. Choosing Your Device and Starting the Setup
Inside Ledger Live, you’ll select the model of your wallet. The app will provide step-by-step prompts that synchronize with what you see on your Ledger device screen.
Click "Set up a new device" if your wallet has never been used. If you are restoring a device, select "Restore from recovery phrase" instead.
If setting up a new device, Ledger will walk you through:
Initializing the wallet
Creating a new PIN
Generating your 24-word recovery phrase
Proceed slowly and follow each prompt carefully.
5. Creating a Secure PIN Code
Your PIN code protects your Ledger device from unauthorized access. You’ll be asked to choose a PIN between 4 and 8 digits.
Important PIN tips:
Do not use predictable numbers such as 1234 or your birthday.
Never share your PIN with anyone.
If someone gets your PIN and your recovery phrase, they can take your crypto.
You will confirm the PIN by entering it twice.
6. Writing Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
Once your PIN is set, your Ledger device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to all cryptocurrencies stored on your wallet. If your device is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can recover your assets using this phrase.
During this step:
The device will display each word one at a time.
Carefully write each word in the correct order.
Double-check spelling and accuracy.
Store the phrase offline in a very secure place.
Critical rules:
Never take a photo of the phrase.
Do not store it on your phone or computer.
Never share it with anyone—not even Ledger’s support team.
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase under any circumstance.
After writing down all 24 words, the device will ask you to confirm several of them to ensure accuracy.
7. Finishing Device Initialization
When you’ve completed the PIN and recovery phrase steps, the device will finish initializing. Ledger Live will verify that the device is genuine by performing a secure authentication check.
Once confirmed, you can begin installing crypto-specific apps.
8. Installing Apps on Your Ledger Device
Ledger devices use a modular app system. Each cryptocurrency—such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana—requires its own app to be installed on the hardware wallet.
To install apps:
Open Ledger Live.
Navigate to the "My Ledger" section.
Connect and unlock your device.
Browse the list of supported apps.
Click Install next to the desired apps.
While apps take up some space on the device, removing an app does not remove your funds; it simply removes the interface. Your private keys remain stored safely in the secure element chip.
9. Adding Crypto Accounts in Ledger Live
After installing apps on your device, you must add accounts in Ledger Live to view and manage your assets.
To add an account:
Navigate to "Accounts".
Click "Add Account".
Select the cryptocurrency you want to add.
Ledger Live will prompt you to open the corresponding app on your device.
Once the account is added, you’ll see your balances and can receive crypto directly into your hardware wallet.
10. Receiving Cryptocurrency Safely
To receive crypto:
Go to "Receive" in Ledger Live.
Select the account you want to receive funds into.
Ledger Live will display your address.
Your Ledger device will also show the same address.
Always verify that the address on your computer matches the one shown on the device.
This prevents man-in-the-middle attacks or malware from altering your address.
Once verified, you can share your receiving address with the sender.
11. Sending Cryptocurrency
To send crypto:
Go to "Send" in Ledger Live.
Enter the recipient's address and amount.
Confirm transaction details.
Your Ledger device will display the transaction for verification.
Physically approve the transaction on your device.
The physical confirmation ensures no one can send funds without access to your Ledger.
12. Updating Firmware and Apps
Ledger occasionally releases firmware updates to improve security and add features. To update:
Connect your device.
Open Ledger Live → "My Ledger".
Follow prompts to update firmware.
Always ensure your recovery phrase is stored safely before updating.
13. Best Practices for Ongoing Security
Keep your recovery phrase hidden and offline.
Never share PINs or passwords.
Regularly update Ledger Live and firmware.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi during transactions.
Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start.
Conclusion
Setting up a Ledger wallet through Ledger.com/start is a straightforward process designed to protect your digital assets with industry-leading security. By following each step—downloading Ledger Live, initializing your device, securing your recovery phrase, and managing your crypto through verified apps—you create a robust and secure environment for all your cryptocurrency holdings.