Introduction: What is Ledger.com/Start?
Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding landing page used when you first set up a Ledger hardware wallet. It provides step-by-step instructions and downloads needed to initialize your device securely and connect it to Ledger's applications (like Ledger Live or Ledger Suite). Whether you're brand-new to hardware wallets or switching from another wallet, Ledger.com/Start is where you begin the secure setup process.
Using a hardware wallet like Ledger ensures your private keys never leave a physical device — a critical security improvement over software-only wallets. This guide expands each stage found on Ledger.com/Start into plain directions you can follow and explains the reasoning behind recommended security practices.
Before you begin: What to prepare
Preparation reduces mistakes during setup and protects your funds. Before visiting Ledger.com/Start, prepare the following:
- A clean, secure computer or smartphone. Avoid public or untrusted devices when initializing a hardware wallet.
- Your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X) and its USB cable or Bluetooth-capable phone if using Nano X.
- A pen (or two) and the supplied recovery sheet. Many users prefer a pencil for erasable markups, but permanent ink is recommended for long-term durability.
- A safe place to store the recovery sheet (preferably a fireproof safe or secure deposit box). Never photograph the recovery phrase or store it digitally in an obvious format.
- Patience — carefully follow each on-screen instruction without skipping steps.
Step-by-step setup from Ledger.com/Start
Below is a consolidated step-by-step walkthrough that mirrors the flow you will encounter at Ledger.com/Start. Follow these steps carefully.
1. Go to the official site
Open your browser and navigate to Ledger.com/Start. Always verify the domain and ensure you are on the official Ledger website (check the URL for exact spelling and look for the secure padlock icon). If your browser warns that the site is suspicious or the certificate is invalid, stop and check again.
2. Download Ledger's official app
Ledger will prompt you to download Ledger Live (or the appropriate app for your device). Use only the official download links presented on Ledger.com/Start. Install the application following your operating system's normal application installation process.
3. Power on and choose “Set up as new device”
Power up the Ledger device using the included cable (or pair via Bluetooth for Nano X). When prompted, choose to set up as a new device (unless you are restoring from a recovery phrase).
4. Set a PIN code on the device
Create a secure PIN using the device buttons. The PIN protects the hardware wallet if it's lost or stolen. Choose a PIN you can remember but not easily guessable (avoid birthdays or repeated digits). The device will ask you to confirm the PIN by entering it twice.
5. Write down your recovery phrase
The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (sometimes 12 or 18 on older models). The recovery phrase is the ultimate backup of your private keys — write each word accurately on the supplied recovery sheet. Double-check spelling and word order; the order is critical.
6. Confirm your recovery phrase on the device
The device will ask you to confirm a few words from the recovery phrase to ensure you've recorded it properly. This is a safety step to prevent lost funds from a forgotten phrase.
7. Install apps and add accounts with Ledger Live
Open Ledger Live and follow the prompts to add your device. Ledger Live will let you install coin-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto the hardware wallet and create accounts. Ledger Live manages interactions with blockchains while the hardware device signs transactions offline.
8. Receive a small test transaction
Before sending large amounts, receive a small test transaction to the newly created address to confirm everything is working. Verify the address on your Ledger device screen and compare it to the address shown in Ledger Live before sharing it.
Security best practices after using Ledger.com/Start
Setting up your device is only the first step. Maintain strong security practices afterward:
- Never share your recovery phrase: Ledger staff will never ask for it. If anyone demands it, treat it as a scam.
- Store your recovery phrase offline: Use metal backups if you want durability against fire and water (there are commercially available steel seed storage products).
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated: Updates patch vulnerabilities and add support for more coins. Only update firmware with your device in your possession and by following official instructions.
- Use a strong PIN and a passphrase (optional): Ledger devices support an optional passphrase (a 25th secret word). This adds security but also increases responsibility because losing the passphrase means losing access to the funds in that passphrase-protected account.
- Be cautious of phishing: Always type the URL yourself or use bookmarks for Ledger.com/Start and Ledger Live downloads. Avoid links sent in emails or social media unless you can verify them.
- Limit device exposure: Only connect your Ledger to trusted computers and refrain from plugging into public or unfamiliar devices.
Common problems on Ledger.com/Start and troubleshooting
Even with careful setup, users sometimes face issues. Here are common problems and how to solve them.
Problem: Ledger Live doesn't detect my device
- Ensure the cable is fully functional and data-capable (some charging cables only provide power and not data).
- Try a different USB port and, if possible, another computer.
- Confirm the device screen is unlocked and the PIN entered — Ledger Live will not detect a locked device.
- On some operating systems, you may need to install drivers (Windows) or grant permission (macOS/Linux). Check Ledger's official support if you see driver-related errors.
Problem: I lost my recovery phrase
If you have lost the recovery phrase but still have access to your Ledger device and accounts, immediately create new wallets, transfer funds to the new wallet(s) with new recovery phrases, and secure the new recovery phrase properly. If you lose both the device and the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.
Problem: Firmware update failed
Follow these steps:
- Disconnect and reconnect the device, restart Ledger Live, and try the update again.
- Use a different USB port or cable.
- If problems persist, consult Ledger's official support pages for device-specific recovery instructions. Avoid using third-party "repair" tips that instruct you to reveal your recovery phrase.
Problem: Wrong addresses shown on the website
Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device's screen — never blindly trust the computer display. Malware on the host computer can replace addresses shown in Ledger Live; visual confirmation on the hardware device prevents this attack.
Advanced tips and features after visiting Ledger.com/Start
Once you're comfortable with basic operations, these advanced practices and features can help you improve security and usability:
Use a passphrase (25th word) for deniability and compartmentalization
A passphrase creates additional hidden wallets accessible only with both the recovery phrase and the passphrase. Use this for compartmentalizing funds (e.g., a savings wallet vs. daily-use wallet). Important: if you forget the passphrase, those funds are irretrievable.
Consider a multisignature setup
Multisig (multiple signatures required to spend funds) spreads risk across devices or custodians. Ledger devices can be part of multisig wallets created with supported wallet software. This is ideal for organizations or high-value personal holdings.
Use metal backups
Paper can be damaged by water, fire, or time. Metal seed storage devices protect the recovery phrase against environmental hazards. Several reputable vendors sell stainless steel products designed for seed phrases.
Test your backups
After creating backups, perform a test restore on a secondary device (if available) to ensure the seed phrase works and the words were recorded correctly. Only test with a device you control and in a secure environment.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q: Can Ledger.com/Start be used to restore an old wallet?
A: Yes. If you're restoring, choose the restore option on the device and follow prompts to enter your previously saved 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger.com/Start provides guidance for both new and restore flows.
Q: Is the recovery phrase ever transmitted to Ledger?
A: No. The recovery phrase is generated and stored only on your Ledger device; it is not transmitted to Ledger's servers. The company emphasizes that they never ask for your recovery phrase.
Q: Can I store crypto on multiple devices using the same recovery phrase?
A: Yes. Importing the same recovery phrase into multiple compatible devices will give access to the same wallets. However, this increases the number of physical points of failure. Preferably maintain a single secure device and backups of the seed phrase.
Q: What happens if Ledger goes out of business?
A: Hardware wallets like Ledger follow open standards (BIP32/BIP39/BIP44). Even if the company disappears, you can recover funds using any compatible wallet that supports your recovery phrase format. Keep your seed phrase safe and note any used derivation paths or passphrase usage.
Conclusion
Ledger.com/Start is the official and trusted beginning of your Ledger hardware wallet journey. Follow the sequence of steps: visit the official site, download Ledger Live, set up your device, record and secure your recovery phrase, confirm, and start using your wallet after small test transactions. Keep firmware and software up to date, follow the security best practices laid out above, and never share your recovery phrase.
By following this guide and staying security-conscious, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of losing your crypto assets to theft or accidental loss. Ledger hardware wallets provide strong protection when used correctly — and Ledger.com/Start is where that secure experience begins.