Welcome to your official guide for setting up and using your Ledger hardware wallet via the Ledger.com/Start onboarding portal. Ledger is one of the most trusted brands globally for securing cryptocurrency assets using offline hardware wallets combined with the Ledger Live software. This complete Getting Started guide walks you through everything from unboxing to secure usage. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Ledger.com/Start is the official entry point for all new users. By using only this official website, you avoid fake software downloads, phishing sites, and compromised tools that could put your crypto at risk. Always ensure you are on the official Ledger domain when installing software or following setup steps. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Ledger.com/Start® is Ledger’s official getting started hub that provides step-by-step instructions and verified downloads for setting up your hardware wallet and Ledger Live companion app. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or future models, this page guides you through each essential setup stage to ensure secure initialization and management of your digital assets. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Your Ledger wallet should arrive sealed and untampered. Check that the packaging is intact and that accessories such as the USB cable and recovery card are included. If anything looks suspicious or pre-initialized, do not use it and contact official support. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Ledger devices are never shipped pre-configured. Any pre-written recovery phrases, USB alterations, or suspicious packaging often signal a counterfeit device, which puts all your funds at risk.
Open your browser and type https://www.ledger.com/start directly into the address bar.
Avoid clicking links in emails, ads, or messages that claim to help with setup. Only trust URLs that
begin with https://www.ledger.com. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
The next step is to download the official Ledger Live app, the secure companion software that allows you to manage your wallet, install blockchain apps, and view your portfolio. Ledger Live is available for:
Download links are provided directly on the Ledger.com/Start page under the verified Ledger Live section. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Once Ledger Live is installed, launch the app and connect your device using the USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Choose “Set up as new device” and follow the on-screen prompts to create a secure PIN. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Write the phrase down on the provided recovery sheet and store it offline somewhere safe. Do not take screenshots or store it digitally.
After setup, Ledger Live allows you to install apps for supported currencies (such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) and add corresponding accounts. These apps let you manage, send, and receive each asset securely from the Ledger hardware. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Ledger Live is an all-in-one dashboard that enables:
Ledger Live bridges your offline keys with the blockchain in a secure way, using the Ledger hardware to sign every transaction physically. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Security is critical when managing crypto. Ledger hardware wallets keep private keys offline, safeguarded in secure hardware elements. Here’s how to protect your wallet:
You need internet to download Ledger Live and firmware updates, but your private keys always stay offline on the Ledger device itself.
Yes—using your 24-word recovery phrase you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device. Never share your recovery phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Yes, the Ledger Live app and setup process are completely free. Be sure to download only from the official Ledger site. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Try using a different USB cable or port, update Ledger Live, or check official support if issues persist. Never enter your recovery phrase into any software. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Yes. Ledger Live supports many NFTs and DeFi features, but always confirm on the device screen before signing transactions. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}