Ledger.com/Start: Your Secure Crypto Setup Guide
If you’ve purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, you’ve made a smart move toward securing your cryptocurrency. Ledger devices like the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X are highly trusted tools for cold storage. To get started, Ledger provides a simple yet secure onboarding at ledger.com/start. This step-by-step guide will help you understand what to expect and how to set up your device properly.
Step 1: Verify Your Ledger Device
Before you do anything else, visit ledger.com/start and check your device’s authenticity. This ensures your wallet hasn’t been tampered with during shipping. Follow the instructions to inspect the packaging and device hologram seals. Ledger will never ship a device with a pre-set PIN or recovery phrase — if yours comes with one, do not use it.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is Ledger’s official companion app. It’s your secure interface for managing crypto assets, updating firmware, and installing apps for different blockchains. From ledger.com/start, you can download Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile (iOS/Android). Always download it from the official site — never trust third-party links.
Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Wallet
Connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone using the provided USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X only). Power it on and follow the device’s on-screen prompts. You’ll choose whether you’re setting up as a new device or restoring from an existing recovery phrase.
When setting up a new device, the Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the ONLY backup of your private keys. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it securely offline — never digitize it or share it. Anyone with this phrase can access your crypto.
Step 4: Set a Secure PIN Code
Next, you’ll create a PIN code on your Ledger. This PIN unlocks your device and protects it from unauthorized physical access. Memorize your PIN and never share it with anyone.
Step 5: Pair Ledger Live with Your Device
Open Ledger Live, select ‘Initialize as new device’, and follow the instructions. After your device is initialized, Ledger Live will ask you to add accounts for the coins you want to manage — like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other supported assets. You’ll install the appropriate apps on your Ledger device via Ledger Live. Each app corresponds to a specific blockchain.
Step 6: Make Your First Transaction
Once your accounts are set up, you can receive crypto into your wallet. Generate a receiving address in Ledger Live and verify it on your device screen. Always double-check addresses — your Ledger device will show the true address to avoid phishing or malware tricks.
Best Practices for Using Ledger
Backup Your Recovery Phrase: Store it in multiple secure offline locations. Consider a fireproof safe or metal backup.
Keep Ledger Live Updated: Firmware and app updates patch vulnerabilities.
Beware of Scams: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word phrase. If someone does, it’s a scam.
Stay Offline: Your private keys never leave the device. That’s the power of hardware wallets.
Final Thoughts
Ledger.com/start makes it simple to secure your digital assets. By carefully following each step — verifying your device, backing up your recovery phrase, and managing your crypto through Ledger Live — you’re taking control of your financial security in the crypto world. Stay vigilant, keep your keys safe, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with cold storage protection.