Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started Wallet Setup

Introduction & Why Ledger.com/Start

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start® — the official and trusted entry point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. This page guides you step-by-step through unboxing, initialization, security best practices, and how to use Ledger Live to manage your crypto assets.

In a world full of phishing scams, clone sites, and malicious software, using the official portal is crucial. Ledger.com/Start ensures you download genuine software, follow verified steps, and safeguard your funds from day one. (Source: “Welcome to Ledger.com/start — Your Guide to Getting Started with Ledger Wallet”) :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Step 1: Unbox & Check Device Authenticity

Once your Ledger device arrives, perform a careful inspection before proceeding with setup:

Verify that the packaging is sealed and shows no signs of tampering.
Ensure the box includes all components: the hardware wallet (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X), USB/USB-C cable, recovery phrase cards, and documentation.
If the device already shows a pre‑written recovery phrase or is preconfigured, do not use it — this is a red flag. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Important: A genuine Ledger device will always prompt you to set it up as new. It should never come pre-initialized. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/Start & Download Ledger Live

Type https://www.ledger.com/start directly into your browser’s address bar (do not click unknown links). This is the only safe starting point for setup. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

From that page, download the official Ledger Live app for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android). The portal provides verified download links so you avoid counterfeit software. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Save the installer and run it.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install.
Do not run any Ledger Live version obtained from untrusted sources. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Device

With Ledger Live installed, it’s time to set up the hardware wallet:

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile via the supplied USB cable (or via Bluetooth if supported, e.g. Nano X). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
When prompted, choose “Set up as new device”. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Create a PIN code (4–8 digits) directly on the device. This PIN will protect access to your wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write this phrase down carefully (in order) on the provided recovery card. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
You’ll then be asked to confirm a few randomly selected words to verify you recorded the phrase correctly. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Warning: Do not take a photo of your recovery phrase, do not store it in digital form, and never share it with anyone — Ledger (or any legitimate party) will never ask for it. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Step 4: Verify & Prepare Wallet

After initialization, complete these steps to ensure your wallet is secure:

Verify that the device prompts you to confirm the recovery phrase words exactly as written. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Open Ledger Live, go to the Manager tab, and install apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to use (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum). :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Add accounts for each coin or token in the Accounts section. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Consider enabling optional security features (e.g. passphrase) if your device supports them. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Step 5: Send, Receive & Manage Crypto

You are now ready to use your Ledger wallet to manage digital assets:

To receive funds: open the account in Ledger Live, click “Receive,” and verify the address on your device before sharing it. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
To send funds: click “Send,” enter destination address and amount, then confirm the transaction on your device screen. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Monitor balances, transaction history, and portfolio performance directly in Ledger Live. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Use built-in features like staking (where supported), swapping, or connecting to DeFi apps. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

Security Best Practices

To keep your crypto safe, always follow these advice points:

Only ever use Ledger.com/Start for official setup instructions and downloads. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Never share your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN with anyone. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Do not enter the recovery phrase on your computer or phone. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Be wary of phishing sites and clone apps. Always verify the URL (look for HTTPS and the correct domain). :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
Keep your Ledger Live app and device firmware updated for security patches and compatibility. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
Use strong and unique PIN codes, and enable any additional security features your device supports. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
Consider storing your recovery phrase in a fireproof, waterproof, or tamper-resistant medium (paper, metal). :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

Many users in the crypto community stress: “Never type your phrase into anything on your computer” — it’s a common way scammers trick people. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

Troubleshooting & FAQs

My Ledger isn’t recognized by Ledger Live

Use the original USB cable and try a different USB port.
Restart both your computer and the device.
Ensure your computer’s operating system is up to date. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

I forgot my PIN — what do I do?

If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device and restore from your 24-word recovery phrase. However, if the recovery phrase is lost, access to funds is permanently lost. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

Can I restore my Ledger on another device?

Yes. Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger or any compatible hardware wallet. The phrase is your master key. :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

Ledger Live is asking for my seed phrase — is that safe?

Absolutely not. Legitimate Ledger Live never asks for your recovery phrase. If any software or site does, it’s a scam. :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}

Is Ledger.com/Start always safe?

Yes — as long as you verify you’re on the real site (correct URL, HTTPS). Many scams impersonate setup pages, so always double-check before proceeding. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}

Conclusion & Your Next Steps

By following this official setup path via Ledger.com/Start®, you’re ensuring your wallet is initialized securely, your private keys remain offline, and your crypto assets have the best defense against fraud and breaches.

Once setup is complete, Ledger Live becomes your central hub for portfolio tracking, sending and receiving funds, staking, and interacting with Web3 services — all with the guarantee that your private keys never leave your hardware device. :contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}

Bookmark Ledger.com/Start, always update your software, and remain vigilant against phishing attempts. Stay safe, stay in control — your crypto journey starts here.