How to Set Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet: A Complete Guide to Using ledger.com/start
When it comes to protecting your crypto, security isn’t optional—it’s essential. That’s why millions of users around the world trust Ledger hardware wallets to safeguard their digital assets offline. If you’ve just purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax, your first stop will be ledger.com/start, the official setup portal for all Ledger devices.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what you can expect at ledger.com/start and how to complete your wallet setup step-by-step—even if you’re totally new to hardware wallets.
What Is ledger.com/start?
ledger.com/start is Ledger’s official onboarding page. It provides:
Verified download links for Ledger Live, the companion app for managing your crypto
Step-by-step setup instructions for each Ledger device
Educational resources on recovery phrases, security tips, and how to manage your assets safely
It’s the safest and most reliable place to begin your Ledger journey—never trust third-party websites or unofficial downloads.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Your Ledger Device
1. Go to ledger.com/start
Open your browser and navigate to the official Ledger start page. Select your device model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax).
2. Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the software interface that allows you to:
Create or restore a crypto wallet
Install apps for different blockchains
Send and receive crypto
Check balances
Buy, stake, or swap supported assets
Install Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile device following the instructions provided.
3. Initialize Your Ledger Device
Once Ledger Live is installed:
Connect your Ledger device via USB
Follow the prompts to set up as a new device
Choose and confirm a secure PIN
Your PIN protects the device itself, so choose something secure and memorable.
4. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase—the master key to your crypto.
Important rules:
Write it down carefully and in order
Store it offline and never share it
Do not photograph, type, or upload it anywhere
Ledger will never ask for your 24 words—anyone who asks is a scammer
If your device is lost or damaged, this recovery phrase is the only way to restore your funds.
5. Verify Your Recovery Phrase
The device will ask you to confirm the 24 words. This step ensures you have backed up your phrase correctly before continuing.
6. Install Apps and Add Accounts
Back in Ledger Live:
Navigate to the “My Ledger” or “Accounts” section
Install apps for each blockchain you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
Create accounts for those assets
Apps go on your device; accounts appear in Ledger Live.
7. Send and Receive Your First Crypto
Once your accounts are ready, you can:
Receive crypto by sharing your verified wallet address
Send crypto by confirming transactions on your Ledger device
Monitor your portfolio securely through Ledger Live
Every transaction must be physically approved on your device, ensuring maximum protection.
Why Ledger Is One of the Safest Ways to Store Crypto
Ledger wallets use Secure Element (SE) chips, the same type used in passports and payment systems. This adds an extra layer of hardware-based protection against hacks, malware, and remote access.
Key benefits include:
Offline private keys: Always stored inside the hardware wallet
Tamper-resistant design
Open-source software for transparency
Physical transaction confirmation
This combination of hardware + software is why Ledger remains a trusted name in crypto security.
Tips for Staying Safe While Using Ledger
Bookmark ledger.com/start to avoid phishing websites
Only download Ledger Live from official sources
Keep your recovery phrase offline and never share it
Update your device firmware through Ledger Live when prompted
Beware of unsolicited messages asking you to “verify” your wallet
Staying security conscious ensures your crypto stays protected long-term.