Ledger.com/Start® | Starting Up Your Device

Why Start at Ledger.com/Start®

Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding portal offered by Ledger to guide you through securely initializing and managing your Ledger hardware wallet. By following this authorized path, you avoid phishing sites, counterfeit software, and incorrect instructions.

Starting here ensures you get the genuine Ledger Live application, step-by-step setup instructions tailored to your device model, and essential security tips that protect your assets from day one.

What You Need Before You Begin

Make sure you have the following ready:

Your Ledger hardware device (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
The provided USB cable (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X / Stax when supported)
A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a secure internet connection
Access to a notebook and pen to write your recovery phrase (no digital storage)
A calm, private environment where you can follow each step carefully

        Important: Ledger devices are never shipped with a PIN or recovery phrase. If your device is already configured, do not use it — contact Ledger support.
      

Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion app that connects your Ledger device to manage cryptocurrencies, perform firmware updates, and install apps. Always download Ledger Live directly from Ledger.com/Start® — never from third-party websites.

Navigate to ledger.com/start in your browser
Select your operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android
Download the installer file and run it
Follow the installation prompts and allow necessary permissions

After installation, launch Ledger Live. It will guide you through selecting your device model and starting setup.

Initializing Your Ledger Device

Once Ledger Live is installed and running, it will detect your connected Ledger device and begin the initialization process.

Click “Set up as new device” (or “Restore device” if you already have a recovery phrase)
Choose a secure PIN (4–8 digits) using the buttons on your Ledger — the layout randomizes each time
Write down the 24‑word recovery phrase that your device displays, in the correct order
Confirm selected words when prompted to verify your backup is correct
Ledger Live may update device firmware — approve any update prompts on the device screen
Install apps for specific cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) via Ledger Live’s Manager tab

The recovery phrase is your only backup. If you lose it, your assets cannot be recovered. Do not photograph, type, or store it digitally.

Adding Accounts & Managing Crypto

After initialization, you can begin managing your crypto assets securely using Ledger Live:

Install the relevant cryptocurrency apps for your Ledger device
Go to “Accounts” and add asset accounts for each coin/token
Use the “Receive” feature to generate deposit addresses — always confirm the address shown on your device screen
Use the “Send” feature to create transactions — review details in Ledger Live and on device before confirming
Use built‑in swap or exchange integrations (if available) within Ledger Live for trading between assets
Track your portfolio, view balances, and monitor transaction history in real time

Each transaction must be approved on the physical device itself — Ledger never signs anything without your explicit confirmation.

Security Best Practices

Security is at the heart of Ledger’s design, but users must also follow safe behavior. Below are essential practices to keep your crypto assets secure:

Always verify that you’re on ledger.com/start and using HTTPS
Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com — never from search engine results or third-party sources
Never share your recovery phrase — Ledger will never ask for it
Confirm all addresses and transaction details on the Ledger device screen, not just in software
Keep firmware and apps updated — Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available
Store your recovery phrase in multiple secure offline locations (e.g. safe, metal backup)
Avoid using public or shared computers when accessing your wallet
Be cautious of phishing emails, fake support accounts, and unsolicited links claiming to be Ledger

Ledger devices include an internal authenticity check during first connection to Ledger Live. If the software flags a problem, stop and contact Ledger Support immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I restore my wallet later if I lose my Ledger device?

Yes — if you have your 24-word recovery phrase. On a new Ledger, use the “Restore device” option in Ledger Live to recover your wallet. Without the phrase, recovery is impossible.

Is Ledger Live mandatory?

Yes for managing your device and assets. Ledger Live is the official interface for firmware updates, app installation, and sending/receiving crypto.

Does Ledger support mobile devices?

Yes. Ledger Live has mobile versions for iOS and Android. For supported Ledger models (e.g. Nano X, Stax), Bluetooth connectivity may be available.

How many cryptocurrencies does Ledger support?

Ledger supports thousands of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, many ERC‑20 tokens, and more. New coins are added regularly.

What if my device isn't recognized?

Try a different USB cable, port, or device. Make sure Ledger Live and your device firmware are up to date. On Linux, you may need to authorize USB permissions.

Can I use Ledger on multiple computers?

Yes. Your private keys never leave the Ledger device. You can install Ledger Live on any trusted computer and connect your device; your wallet data is derived from your recovery phrase.