Ledger.com/Start® — Starting Up Your Device

Official step-by-step landing guide for Ledger hardware wallets
Securely unbox, initialize, and begin using your Ledger device with confidence

Welcome — quick overview before you begin

This guide helps you through the Ledger.com/Start® flow: unboxing, verifying authenticity, installing Ledger Live or using the web start page, initializing your Ledger hardware wallet, creating and safeguarding your recovery phrase, and performing your first transactions. We include practical security advice, troubleshooting tips, and ten official Ledger links you can bookmark for downloads, support, and verification.

Open Ledger.com/Start Download Ledger Live

1. What to prepare

Before setup, gather: your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or other), the official USB cable, a computer or smartphone if using Ledger Live mobile, a clean private workspace, and a secure method to record your recovery phrase (paper card or steel backup). Avoid using unstable public networks during setup.

Authenticity & supply-chain safety

Only purchase Ledger devices from the official shop or authorized resellers. Inspect packaging and device integrity — Ledger devices include tamper-evident features. If anything about the package or device seems off, stop and contact official Ledger support before proceeding.

2. Install Ledger Live or use Start page

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile companion app for managing accounts, installing apps, and updating firmware. For a guided web experience, use the start page. Always verify you are on ledger.com and prefer bookmarks for official pages to avoid phishing links.

Downloads & essential links

3. Initialize your Ledger — step-by-step

  1. Power on the device and connect it to the computer or phone following the start flow.
  2. Choose to set up as new device (creates a new recovery phrase) or restore from an existing recovery phrase if migrating.
  3. Write down the recovery phrase exactly as displayed. Ledger devices show the phrase on-device — never accept entering it into a computer or website.
  4. Create a PIN code on the device to prevent unauthorized physical access. Memorize it; do not store it with the recovery phrase.
  5. Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage via Ledger Live. Each coin uses a dedicated app on the device to handle signing.

Why the recovery phrase is critical

The recovery phrase is the master key that restores access to your accounts. If you lose your device, the phrase is the only way to recover funds. Keep it offline and in a physically secure place. Consider a steel backup if durability is important for long-term storage.

4. First transactions & safety checks

Start with a small test transaction to confirm receive and send flows. Always verify receiving addresses and transaction details on the device screen, not only on the host computer where a clipboard or display could be compromised.

Transaction safety checklist

  • Confirm the full destination address on the Ledger device display before approving.
  • Check fees and network selection in Ledger Live.
  • Use small test transfers before moving large sums.

5. Firmware & app updates

Ledger periodically releases firmware and app updates to improve security and add features. Updates are signed and delivered through Ledger Live; apply them when prompted. Never install firmware or software from unverified sources.

Troubleshooting common issues

If the device is not detected, try a different USB cable or port, restart Ledger Live, and ensure you are on the official start page. If firmware update fails, refer to the official support articles. Avoid community "fixes" that ask you to share your recovery phrase — Ledger support will never ask for it.

6. Advanced tips for power users

Advanced users can leverage features like passphrase-protected accounts (hidden wallets), using Ledger with full nodes, PSBT workflows for air-gapped signing, or multi-sig setups. Each advanced option increases responsibility; document your procedures and backups carefully to avoid irrecoverable mistakes.

Security best practices

  • Never enter your recovery phrase into a website or share it with anyone.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated and only use official downloads.
  • Consider using a separate, clean computer for high-value operations and disable unnecessary browser extensions during signing sessions.

7. Official resources & links (bookmark these)

Here are ten official Ledger links to help you download, learn, verify, and get assistance. Keep these bookmarked for safety:

Ledger.com/Start Ledger Live Ledger Support Official Shop Ledger Learn (Guides) Developers & Docs Service Status Ledger Blog Community Forum Contact & Legal

8. Final notes — protect what matters

Setting up your Ledger device correctly is the foundation of long-term self-custody. Use official channels for downloads and support, treat your recovery phrase as the most sensitive secret, and verify addresses and operations on-device. If you ever suspect compromise, move funds to a newly-initialized device with a fresh recovery phrase as soon as possible.

This landing-style guide is an approachable, practical companion to the official Ledger.com/Start® flow. For device-specific support, consult the official support center linked above.