#Ledger.com/Start®| Getting Started — Ledger Support™ Ledger.com/Start – Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
When it comes to securing cryptocurrency, nothing is more important than keeping your private keys safe. Online wallets and exchanges can be vulnerable to hacks, phishing attacks, and malware. That’s why hardware wallets have become the gold standard for crypto security. If you’ve recently purchased a Ledger device, your setup journey begins at Ledger.com/Start.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about setting up your Ledger hardware wallet using the official platform, understanding how it works, and following best practices to secure your digital assets.
What Is Ledger?
Ledger is a leading cryptocurrency security company founded in 2014. Headquartered in France, Ledger specializes in hardware wallets that allow users to securely store private keys offline.
Popular Ledger devices include:
Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X
These devices are designed to protect cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other tokens.
Why Use Ledger.com/Start?
Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding page for all Ledger devices. It ensures that you:
Download authentic Ledger software
Follow official setup instructions
Avoid phishing or scam websites
Initialize your device securely
Using only the official website is critical to protect your funds.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Device Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start
Open your browser and type Ledger.com/Start manually into the address bar. Avoid clicking on unknown links or ads. Always verify the URL before proceeding.
From the homepage, select your device model:
Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
To manage your crypto assets, you’ll need Ledger Live.
Ledger Live is the official companion app that allows you to:
Install cryptocurrency apps
Send and receive crypto
Monitor portfolio balances
Buy, sell, and swap crypto
Ledger Live is available for:
Windows
macOS
Linux
iOS
Android
Download the version compatible with your device directly from the official site.
Step 3: Install and Launch Ledger Live
After downloading:
Install the application.
Open Ledger Live.
Select “Get Started.”
Choose your device model.
You will then be guided through a security checklist to ensure your device is genuine and untampered.
Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device
Now it’s time to set up your hardware wallet.
Option A: Set Up as New Device
Choose this if you are setting up your device for the first time.
Option B: Restore from Recovery Phrase
Choose this only if you previously had a Ledger device and want to recover your wallet.
Step 5: Create a PIN Code
You’ll be prompted to create a 4–8 digit PIN code on your Ledger device.
Important tips:
Choose a unique PIN.
Never share your PIN with anyone.
Enter it carefully each time to avoid device lockout.
Your PIN protects physical access to your device.
Step 6: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
This is the most important step.
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase). This phrase is the master key to your crypto assets.
You must:
Write it down on the provided recovery sheet.
Double-check spelling and order.
Store it in a secure offline location.
Never take a photo of it.
Never store it digitally.
If someone gets access to your recovery phrase, they can steal your funds.
Ledger Live will verify that you wrote it correctly before proceeding.
Installing Cryptocurrency Apps
Once your device is initialized:
Open Ledger Live.
Go to the Manager section.
Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
Each cryptocurrency requires its own app installed on the device.
Adding Accounts in Ledger Live
After installing apps:
Go to Accounts in Ledger Live.
Click Add Account.
Select the cryptocurrency.
Open the corresponding app on your Ledger device.
Ledger Live will synchronize and add the account.
You’re now ready to send and receive crypto securely.
Sending Cryptocurrency
To send crypto:
Click Send in Ledger Live.
Enter the recipient’s address.
Enter the amount.
Confirm transaction details on your Ledger device screen.
Approve the transaction physically.
This physical confirmation is what makes Ledger secure — transactions cannot be approved without your device.
Receiving Cryptocurrency
To receive crypto:
Click Receive.
Choose the account.
Verify the address shown on your device.
Share the verified address with the sender.
Always confirm the address on your Ledger device screen to prevent malware attacks.
Security Best Practices
To keep your crypto safe:
Ledger will never ask for your 24 words.
Only trust communications from official Ledger sources.
Updates often include security improvements.
Avoid public Wi-Fi when managing crypto.
Some users keep a second Ledger device as backup using the same recovery phrase.
Common Issues and Solutions Device Not Recognized
Use the original USB cable.
Try a different USB port.
Restart Ledger Live.
Forgotten PIN
If you enter the wrong PIN three times, the device resets. You can restore using your 24-word recovery phrase.
Lost Device
If your device is lost or damaged:
Buy a new Ledger device.
Choose “Restore from recovery phrase.”
Enter your 24 words.
Regain access to your funds.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Ledger devices support over 5,000 coins and tokens, including:
Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
Binance Coin (BNB)
Cardano (ADA)
Solana (SOL)
This wide compatibility makes Ledger one of the most versatile hardware wallets available.
Advantages of Using Ledger Hardware Wallet
Private keys never leave the device.
Ledger devices use a certified Secure Element chip for enhanced protection.
Transactions must be confirmed on the device.
Manage thousands of digital assets in one place.
Ledger Live makes portfolio tracking simple.
Ledger Nano S Plus vs Ledger Nano X Feature Ledger Nano S Plus Ledger Nano X Bluetooth No Yes Mobile Compatibility Limited Full Storage Capacity High Higher Battery No Yes
If you want mobile flexibility, Nano X is ideal. If you prefer a budget-friendly wired option, Nano S Plus works perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Setting up your hardware wallet through Ledger.com/Start ensures you are following official and secure instructions. With cyber threats constantly evolving, protecting your cryptocurrency investments should be a top priority.
By using a Ledger device and properly securing your recovery phrase, you gain full control over your digital assets while minimizing risks.
Always remember:
Your recovery phrase is your master key.
Never share it.
Only download Ledger Live from official sources.
Verify every transaction on your device screen.
With proper setup and responsible management, your Ledger hardware wallet becomes one of the safest ways to store cryptocurrency in 2026 and beyond.
Secure your crypto. Stay informed. Stay protected.