Welcome to Ledger Start

Your official guide to securely setting up your Ledger hardware wallet

Ledger Start (via ledger.com/start) is the first step in your journey to secure your cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Through this portal, we guide you through every essential step — from unboxing your device, verifying its authenticity, downloading the official software, initializing the wallet, and applying best security practices — so that you can manage your crypto confidently.

It’s critical to always use the official Ledger site and never deviate to unknown pages or links — this helps you avoid phishing, counterfeit devices, or malicious apps. Your security begins at ledger.com/start.

Step 1: Unbox & Inspect Your Device

When your Ledger hardware wallet arrives, carefully inspect the packaging. Ensure the seal is intact, the box hasn't been tampered with, and all components are included (device, USB cable, recovery sheets, user documentation).

If anything appears suspicious or missing, stop and contact Ledger support immediately.

Step 2: Visit ledger.com/start & Download Ledger Live

From ledger.com/start, you’ll find the verified download links for Ledger Live — the desktop/mobile app used to manage your wallet, send/receive crypto, and install apps. Only download Ledger Live from this official source.

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Step 3: Initialize Your Device

Plug your Ledger device into your computer (or connect via Bluetooth if supported). Select “Set up as new device” in Ledger Live. The device will prompt you to choose a 4–8 digit PIN that you’ll use to unlock it.

Next, it will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase (also called your “secret recovery phrase” or “seed phrase”). Write these words down in order on the recovery sheet provided. **Never** store them digitally, photograph them, or share them — these words are the master key to your funds.

Step 4: Confirm Recovery Phrase & Add Accounts

The device will ask you to verify some of the 24 words to ensure you've copied them correctly. Only once you confirm, will the initialization complete.

Then, in Ledger Live you can install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), and add accounts to start managing your assets.

Step 5: Firmware & Application Updates

Ledger periodically releases firmware updates and app updates to enhance security, add features, or support new coins. Always apply updates using Ledger Live. Doing so ensures ongoing protection and compatibility.

Learn More with FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a hardware wallet and why use one? A hardware wallet is a physical device that stores your private keys offline. It protects your assets from online hacks because the keys never leave the device. Ledger is among the leading secure hardware wallet providers. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Why must I only use ledger.com/start? Phishing websites and fake downloads are common threats. Using the official URL ensures you're accessing verified software, genuine instructions, and avoiding malicious clones or fake apps.
Can I install Ledger Live from another website? No — you should only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site via ledger.com/start or Ledger’s official domain. Downloads from third‑party sources risk tampering.
What happens if I lose my device? If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, you can recover your funds using your 24‑word recovery phrase on a new device. That’s why the safe storage of the phrase is vital.
Is Ledger Recover feature safe? Ledger Recover is an optional service where your private key is split and encrypted into fragments held by separate parties, and can be reconstructed if needed. The system is designed so that no single party holds enough to reconstruct your key on its own. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Why can’t I share or digitize my recovery phrase? Anyone with access to your recovery phrase can reconstruct your private keys and steal your funds. Digitized copies (screenshots, photos, text files) are vulnerable to hacks, backups, or leaks. Ledger strongly advises storing your recovery phrase offline. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Is the Ledger device ever “online”? No. Even when connected to a computer or smartphone, the private keys stay inside the secure element chip and are never exposed to the internet. Transactions are signed internally, then broadcasted via the host device. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
What if I skip firmware updates? Skipping updates is risky: updates patch vulnerabilities, support new blockchains, and improve performance. Not updating could expose you to security flaws or make your device incompatible with new coins.
How do I spot counterfeit devices? Genuine Ledger devices have tamper-evident packaging, verified seals, warranty cards, and certain product identifiers. Always inspect packaging and follow Ledger’s authenticity checks before setup.