When you receive your Ledger hardware wallet, the safest first step is visiting ledger.com/start. This official onboarding page provides a clear, step-by-step guide to securely initialize your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X, install Ledger Live, and set up your recovery phrase. Using the official website guarantees that your hardware wallet is authentic, your software is verified, and your private keys remain fully protected from phishing and malware attacks.
Why Use Ledger.com/Start?
Cryptocurrency security begins with proper setup. Phishing websites, fake wallet apps, and malicious downloads are common threats in the crypto space. By starting at ledger.com/start, you ensure that every step, from firmware installation to wallet initialization, is safe and verified by the official Ledger team.
Avoid Phishing and Counterfeit Apps
Always manually type the URL into your browser. Ledger will never request your recovery phrase online. Starting at the official site guarantees that you download only the verified Ledger Live software.
Official Ledger Live Download
Ledger Live is the official desktop application for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. Through Ledger Live, you can send, receive, buy, sell, and track cryptocurrencies while keeping your private keys offline.
Firmware Verification and Security
When you set up your Ledger wallet, Ledger Live verifies the device’s firmware. Installation requires confirmation directly on your device screen, ensuring no unauthorized or malicious modifications occur.
Step-by-Step Setup Process
The instructions on ledger.com/start are designed for simplicity and security, ensuring beginners and experienced users can safely activate their devices.
Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the USB cable included with your Ledger wallet to connect it to your computer.
Install Ledger Live
Download and install Ledger Live for your operating system—Windows, macOS, or Linux. The desktop version is recommended for stronger security than mobile or browser-based alternatives.
Create or Restore a Wallet
Ledger Live guides you through creating a new wallet or restoring an existing one. All private keys are generated inside the hardware device and never leave it.
Record Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Carefully write each word down in order and store it securely offline. This phrase is the only way to recover your funds if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Best Practices for Security
Ledger devices offer multiple layers of protection to keep your funds safe.
Keep Your Recovery Phrase Offline
Do not store your recovery phrase digitally. Avoid taking screenshots or storing it on cloud services. Anyone with access to the seed phrase can control your cryptocurrency.
Set a PIN Code
Create a secure PIN directly on your device to prevent unauthorized physical access.
Optional Passphrase for Hidden Wallets
Advanced users can enable a passphrase to create hidden wallets, adding another layer of security and privacy.
Manage Your Crypto with Ledger Live
After completing setup at ledger.com/start, Ledger Live allows you to manage a wide range of cryptocurrencies safely.
Portfolio Overview
Monitor balances, review transaction history, and track portfolio performance in real time.
Buy, Sell, and Swap
Integrated partners enable secure crypto purchases and exchanges directly within Ledger Live.
Staking Options
Ledger Live supports staking for select cryptocurrencies, allowing you to earn rewards while keeping assets secure.
Firmware and Software Updates
Regular updates are crucial for security and feature enhancements. Always update your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live through official channels.
Automatic Update Notifications
Ledger Live notifies you when firmware or software updates are available, helping protect against emerging threats.
Secure Update Confirmation
Every firmware update requires confirmation on your device, preventing unauthorized changes.
Why Ledger.com/Start Is Essential
Starting at ledger.com/start ensures your Ledger hardware wallet is configured safely and securely. By following the official steps, your private keys remain offline, your recovery phrase is stored safely, and all transactions require on-device verification.
Ledger.com/start provides an easy, verified path to secure cryptocurrency management, giving users confidence to safely send, receive, and track digital assets from day one.