What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page provided by Ledger, the company behind some of the most widely used cryptocurrency hardware wallets in the world. When you’re ready to set up a Ledger device — such as a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or similar model — this is the first web page you should use to begin the process. It guides you step by step through installation, setup, security, and connecting your device to Ledger’s software. (en-ledgercomstart.pages.dev)
In essence, Ledger.com/start is not a place to send or store crypto itself. It is a secure setup and reference portal that helps you configure your hardware wallet properly and safely. (com-strt-ledgor-us.pages.dev)

Why Ledger.com/start Matters

Cryptocurrency security is fundamentally different from traditional banking security. With normal bank accounts, a bank generally holds custody of your assets. With cryptocurrency, you are responsible for keeping your private keys secure. If someone else gains those keys, or if you lose them, access to your crypto can be lost forever. Hardware wallets like Ledger take these keys offline (cold storage), meaning they are not exposed to the internet where most theft occurs. (help-us-ledger-io.teachable.com)
Ledger.com/start exists to ensure your device is set up in the safest way possible — using official Ledger software and firmware checks, rather than unverified third‑party pages. Phishing websites and fake wallets are a common source of scams; Ledger emphasizes never using links from social media ads, emails, or random search results. Always go directly to Ledger.com/start to begin setup. (help-us-ledger-io.teachable.com)

Preparing to Use Ledger.com/start

Before you visit Ledger.com/start, make sure:

  1. You have a genuine Ledger device — purchased from Ledger.com or an authorized reseller. Second‑hand devices are not recommended because they can be tampered with. (en-ledgercomstart.pages.dev)
  2. Your device packaging is intact and untampered. Ledger devices do not usually come in heavy tamper seals, but any signs of interference should be treated with caution and verified with Ledger Support. (ledgr-com-index.pages.dev)
  3. You have a computer or smartphone ready with a secure internet connection. The device will connect via USB or Bluetooth (depending on the model). (en-ledgercomstart.pages.dev)
  4. You have space to write down your recovery phrase physically. A pen and the supplied recovery sheet (or a separate metal backup) will be essential. (start-ledger-help.squarespace.com)

Once these prerequisites are met, you can proceed to set up your wallet.

Step‑by‑Step Setup Via Ledger.com/start

Below is a detailed walkthrough of setup using Ledger.com/start. Each step may look simple, but it’s crucial to do them carefully to protect your assets.

1. Visit the Official Ledger Setup Page

Open your browser and type ledger.com/start directly into the address bar. Do not rely on search engine links or third‑party sites, as scammers often mimic the Ledger branding. (ledgr-com-index.pages.dev)

Once the page loads, it will guide you to download the official Ledger Live app based on your device and operating system. (com-strt-ledgor-us.pages.dev)

2. Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the software interface that connects your hardware wallet to your computer or phone. From Ledger.com/start, choose the appropriate version for your system: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. (Ledger Com Learn)
Install it just as you would any other application — always from the official site. After installation, open Ledger Live to begin setup.

3. Connect Your Ledger to Your Device

Using the USB cable (or Bluetooth for the Ledger Nano X’s mobile setup), connect your Ledger device. The screen on the device will power on and prompt you with initial instructions. (Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup Guide)
At this point, Ledger Live should detect the hardware wallet and begin guiding you through initialization.

4. Initialize the Device

Inside Ledger Live, you’ll be asked whether this is a new setup or if you are restoring an existing wallet from a recovery phrase. If it’s new, select “Set up as new device”. (start-ledger-help.squarespace.com)
The Ledger will then generate a 24‑word recovery phrase. This seed phrase is the most important part of your wallet. It is the master key to all your private keys and assets.
Write the words down exactly as shown, in order, on the recovery sheet provided. Never store this digitally, in screenshots, on your computer, or in cloud storage — those are common vectors for theft. (Start Ledger FAQ)

5. Create and Confirm a PIN Code

You will be asked to set a PIN (usually 4 to 8 digits). This PIN helps protect the device itself if it is ever lost or stolen. After entering your chosen PIN once, you will confirm it by entering it again. (Ledger Start® Setup Guide)
Avoid simple combinations or birthdays to make it harder for attackers to guess.

6. Verify the Recovery Phrase

After writing down the 24 words, the Ledger device will ask you to confirm certain words from the phrase. This ensures you copied them down correctly. (Start Guide Ledger)
7. Verify Device Authenticity Via Ledger Live
Ledger Live performs a check to confirm the firmware and device authenticity. This step helps ensure your device hasn’t been tampered with before it left the factory. (Start Guide Ledger)

After Setup: Managing Your Crypto

Once setup is complete, Ledger Live allows you to add accounts for different cryptocurrencies, send and receive assets, view portfolio balances, stake supported coins, and more. All transactions must be confirmed on the hardware device itself, ensuring that private keys never leave secure offline storage. (Ledger Academy)

Key Safety Reminders

While Ledger.com/start makes setup easier, security relies on you following best practices:

  • Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it. (Ledger Com Learn)
  • Avoid entering your recovery words into any website or software. Only the hardware device should ever see them. (help-us-ledger-io.teachable.com)
  • Do not download Ledger Live from unofficial sources. Scammers have distributed fake apps that try to steal seed phrases. (TechRadar)
  • Backup your recovery phrase physically, and consider a metal backup for longer durability. (start-ledger-help.squarespace.com)

Summary

Ledger.com/start is the official beginning point for Ledger hardware wallet onboarding. It takes you from unboxing your device to securing it with a PIN and recovery phrase, installing companion software, and ensuring everything is genuine and secure. Always use only the official site, never share sensitive information, and follow documented steps carefully. This helps protect your cryptocurrency from theft and loss, giving you true self‑custody of your digital assets. (en-ledgercomstart.pages.dev)
If there’s anything more specific you’d like help with — for example, how to send crypto once your wallet is set up — just let me know!