Secure Your Crypto from Day One
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page for Ledger hardware wallets, providing step-by-step instructions to set up your device securely. Whether you own a Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus, beginning your setup here ensures authenticity and protects your digital assets from the very start.
Cryptocurrency security relies on properly safeguarding private keys. Ledger devices keep these keys offline, completely isolated from the internet, making them resistant to hacking attempts and malware. By following the official setup process, you ensure that your wallet firmware is genuine and your Ledger Live software is properly installed.
Why Ledger Hardware Wallets Are Essential
Unlike online wallets or exchange accounts, Ledger hardware wallets give you complete control of your private keys. Your funds remain under your ownership, and every transaction must be approved physically on your device. This makes it nearly impossible for attackers to move your funds without your consent.
Ledger wallets support thousands of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and a variety of altcoins and tokens. Their versatility allows you to manage a diversified portfolio with confidence.
Step-by-Step Ledger Device Setup Unbox and Inspect Your Device
Carefully check the packaging to ensure the device hasn’t been tampered with. Ledger hardware wallets do not come with pre-filled recovery sheets; any device with a pre-written seed should be considered compromised.
Connect Your Device
Use the included USB cable to connect your Ledger wallet to a computer or mobile device. Then navigate to Ledger.com/start to begin the official setup.
Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official software for managing your wallet and crypto assets. Download it only from Ledger.com/start to avoid phishing attacks and counterfeit software. The desktop version supports Windows, macOS, and Linux, while the mobile version is available for iOS and Android.
Install or Update Firmware
When you first initialize your Ledger device, it will prompt you to install firmware. Confirm all steps directly on the device screen to ensure authenticity.
Creating and Backing Up Your Wallet
During initialization, your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is your master backup and allows you to restore your wallet if your device is lost, damaged, or stolen.
Write Down the Recovery Phrase
Record the words exactly as displayed on the recovery card provided. Never store them digitally, take pictures, or enter them into any software on your computer.
Store Your Backup Securely
Place your recovery phrase in a safe, offline location. Anyone with access to it can access your crypto assets.
Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
Ledger will prompt you to verify selected words to ensure you recorded the seed correctly.
Set a Secure PIN Code
After backing up your recovery phrase, create a PIN code on your Ledger device. This PIN prevents unauthorized access if your wallet is lost or stolen. Make sure it is both secure and memorable. Multiple incorrect PIN attempts will trigger security measures that protect your assets.
Using Ledger Live for Asset Management
Once setup is complete, Ledger Live allows you to send, receive, swap, and stake cryptocurrencies securely. You can install apps for specific coins, monitor balances, and manage multiple accounts—all while keeping your private keys offline.
Every outgoing transaction requires confirmation directly on your Ledger device, adding an extra layer of security. Ledger Live also provides real-time portfolio tracking and fee customization to optimize transaction costs.
Ongoing Security Best Practices
Maintaining the security of your crypto requires vigilance. Always:
Download Ledger Live and firmware updates from the official Ledger.com/start page
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, including Ledger support
Confirm addresses and transaction details on your device screen
Avoid phishing links, emails, or websites claiming to be Ledger support
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Keeping your device and software updated ensures protection against emerging threats.
Start Your Secure Crypto Journey Today
Ledger.com/start is the gateway to safely initializing your hardware wallet. Following the official setup process guarantees authenticity, security, and peace of mind as you manage your digital assets. Take control of your cryptocurrency today and enjoy the confidence of hardware-level protection combined with the convenience of Ledger Live.