Ledger.com/start: The Simple Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet
If you’ve just bought a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, the first thing you should do is visit Ledger.com/start. This official setup page walks you through the correct steps to install Ledger Live, initialize your device, and safely store your crypto. Whether you’re brand new to hardware wallets or simply upgrading, this guide explains everything in clear, easy-to-understand language.
Why Ledger.com/start Matters
There are many unofficial guides, fake apps, and scam websites online pretending to be Ledger. To stay safe, you should always begin at the official setup page—Ledger.com/start. This page ensures:
You download the real Ledger Live app
You follow accurate setup steps
You avoid dangerous phishing links
You protect your recovery phrase properly
Simply put, Ledger.com/start is the secure doorway into the Ledger ecosystem.
Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device
When you open your Ledger box, you should find:
Your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X
A USB cable
Empty recovery phrase sheets
A quick-start guide
Your recovery sheet must always be blank. Ledger devices never come pre-set with a recovery phrase. If you find printed 24 words inside the box, the device is unsafe—stop using it immediately.
Step 2: Go to the Official Setup Page: Ledger.com/start
Open your browser and type Ledger.com/start manually. This protects you from fake links or pop-ups.
On the page, select your Ledger model. You’ll then be guided to download Ledger Live, the official software that lets you manage your device and your crypto. Ledger Live is essential for:
Installing apps for each cryptocurrency
Managing balances
Sending and receiving crypto
Updating firmware
Viewing your portfolio
Everything begins with this app.
Step 3: Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Download the version that matches your device.
After installation, open Ledger Live. The app will ask whether you want to “Set up a new device” or “Restore using recovery phrase.” Since this is a new wallet, choose “Set up a new device.”
You will then see a checklist that keeps you on track—no guesswork needed.
Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the USB cable to connect your Ledger wallet to your computer. When it powers on, the small screen will guide you through the initial steps.
You will complete two important tasks:
Set Your PIN Code
Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized access.
Choose a secure PIN
Do not use simple combinations
Memorize it or store it safely
Never share it with anyone
If someone enters the wrong PIN three times, the device will reset to protect your crypto.
Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
The recovery phrase is the heart of your wallet. It is the only backup of your crypto.
The Ledger device will display 24 words. Write them neatly on the provided recovery sheet.
Very important rules:
Never store the phrase online
Never photograph it
Never type it into websites
Never share it with anyone—not even support teams
Anyone with your 24 words can access your crypto. Ledger does not store or know your recovery phrase. You are the sole owner of it.
Step 5: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
The device will ask you to confirm several of the words to make sure you wrote them down correctly. Take your time and double-check each word. One mistake can prevent you from recovering your wallet in the future.
Once confirmed, your device is officially set up.
Step 6: Install Crypto Apps in Ledger Live
Your Ledger wallet doesn’t come with any crypto apps installed. To manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other assets, you must install each app manually.
In Ledger Live:
Go to My Ledger
Install the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana)
Add accounts for each cryptocurrency
Each app allows your Ledger to communicate with that blockchain securely.
Step 7: Receive Your First Crypto
Once you’ve added accounts, you can receive crypto into your Ledger-secured address.
Steps to receive:
Open Ledger Live
Select the account
Click Receive
Ledger Live will show your address
Your Ledger device will display the same address
Make sure both addresses match. This safety check prevents malware from changing your receiving address.
After confirming, you can transfer funds from exchanges or other wallets.
Step 8: Follow Ongoing Security Best Practices
Hardware wallets are extremely secure, but your habits matter too. Follow these simple rules:
Store your recovery phrase in a safe place
Never give the recovery phrase to anyone
Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com
Keep your device firmware updated
Always verify addresses on the device screen
Beware of fake “support agents” asking for your 24 words
These habits ensure your crypto stays protected.
Conclusion
Ledger.com/start is the safest and easiest way to begin using your Ledger hardware wallet. It guides you through installing Ledger Live, setting your PIN, writing down and confirming your recovery phrase, installing apps, and receiving your first crypto—all with clear steps and built-in security checks. Whether you're new to crypto or simply looking for stronger protection, this setup process gives you peace of mind and full control of your digital assets.