Ledger.com/Start® | Log In | Getting Started*

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start® – your official gateway to secure crypto asset management. Whether you're a first-time hardware wallet user or transitioning from another platform, this guide offers a step-by-step walkthrough to help you get started safely and confidently with your Ledger device and the Ledger Live app.

Introduction to Ledger®

Ledger® is a global leader in hardware wallet technology, offering unmatched security for digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies. Using a Ledger device helps protect your private keys offline, away from hackers and malware. The companion app, Ledger Live, enables you to manage your assets, check balances, send/receive crypto, and interact with Web3 dApps — all in one place.

Start now at Ledger.com/Start — the only official platform to begin securely.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Begin by visiting https://www.ledger.com/start.

⚠️ Important: Always ensure you're on the official Ledger site to avoid phishing scams. Check for the padlock symbol and correct URL spelling in your browser’s address bar.

Step 2: Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

When your Ledger hardware wallet arrives:

  • Check the box for tampering. A genuine device should be sealed and free from prior use.
  • Verify authenticity. Use Ledger Live during setup to automatically verify the device is original.
  • Inside the box, you'll find:
  • Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other)
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheet (for writing down your secret phrase)
  • User guide and stickers

Step 3: Download Ledger Live

Go to the official site or use this direct link: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live/download

Ledger Live is available for:

  • Windows, macOS, Linux
  • iOS and Android (mobile version)

Avoid third-party downloads. Always download Ledger Live directly from Ledger’s official site.

Step 4: Install and Launch Ledger Live

Once downloaded:

  1. Install Ledger Live by following your system’s installation instructions.
  2. Launch the app and choose “Get Started”.
  3. Select your device model (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X).
  4. Choose between:
  • Set up as a new device (if this is your first use)
  • Restore from recovery phrase (if migrating from an older device)
  • Skip device setup (only to access view-only mode or advanced features)

Step 5: Set Up Your Ledger Device

For New Users:

  1. Power on your device using the side buttons.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions on the device.
  3. Set a secure PIN code (minimum 4 digits, up to 8).
  4. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase in exact order. This phrase is your only backup. Store it offline and never share it.

Do not take photos or store the phrase online.

Step 6: Verify Recovery Phrase

After writing down the recovery phrase:

  • Your device will ask you to verify a few random words from the phrase.
  • This step ensures you copied the correct words in the right order.
  • Once verified, your Ledger is initialized securely.

Step 7: Connect Ledger to Ledger Live

  1. Plug your Ledger device into your computer or connect via Bluetooth (for Ledger Nano X).
  2. Open Ledger Live and select “Connect Your Device”.
  3. Choose the appropriate Ledger model and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Ledger Live will check device authenticity and confirm secure connection.

Step 8: Install Apps on Your Ledger

Cryptocurrencies require specific apps to be installed on your Ledger:

  1. In Ledger Live, go to Manager.
  2. Allow Ledger Live access on your device.
  3. Search and install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
  4. Each app corresponds to one blockchain network.

You can install multiple apps depending on your device’s memory.

Step 9: Create Accounts in Ledger Live

After installing crypto apps:

  1. Navigate to Accounts > Add Account.
  2. Choose a crypto asset (e.g., Bitcoin).
  3. Ledger Live will sync with your device to generate a secure wallet address.
  4. Once synced, your account is ready to send and receive assets.

Step 10: Buy, Send & Receive Crypto

To Receive:

  1. Go to Accounts > Receive.
  2. Choose the crypto asset.
  3. Connect and verify the wallet address shown on your device screen.
  4. Copy and share the address to receive crypto.

To Send:

  1. Go to Accounts > Send.
  2. Enter the recipient address and amount.
  3. Confirm the transaction on both Ledger Live and your hardware device.

Optional: Buy Crypto with Ledger Live

Ledger Live partners with platforms like MoonPay, Ramp, and Coinify. You can:

  • Buy crypto with credit card, bank transfer, or Apple Pay.
  • Receive assets directly in your Ledger-secured wallet.

Go to Buy > Choose Asset > Choose Provider and follow the KYC process.

Optional: Stake and Earn

Ledger Live supports staking for popular assets like:

  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Tezos (XTZ)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Cosmos (ATOM)

Navigate to Earn > Start Staking and follow on-screen steps.

Log In Safely – Every Time

Each time you want to access Ledger Live:

  1. Open the app.
  2. Plug in your Ledger device.
  3. Enter your PIN.
  4. Approve any actions on the device screen.

Ledger never asks for your 24-word phrase online. If prompted, it’s a scam. Never share it.

Restore a Device (if Lost/Stolen)

If you lose your Ledger device:

  1. Get a new Ledger hardware wallet.
  2. Choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during setup.
  3. Enter the exact 24-word phrase.
  4. Your wallet and assets will be restored safely.

Security Best Practices

  • Only trust Ledger.com/Start – avoid third-party guides or software.
  • Never share your recovery phrase, PIN, or private keys.
  • Enable Ledger Live password lock for extra app-level security.
  • Double-check recipient addresses to avoid phishing or clipboard malware.

Need Help?

Use official support:

  • Visit support.ledger.com
  • Access Ledger Academy for tutorials
  • Submit tickets for technical help

Avoid unofficial Telegram groups, Discord channels, or DMs offering “help.” Ledger support never contacts users first.

Conclusion

With Ledger.com/Start®, getting started with your hardware wallet is simple, secure, and streamlined. By following this official guide, you ensure your digital assets are protected with industry-leading security. Ledger empowers you to own and control your crypto, free from third-party risk.

Start today at www.ledger.com/start and experience secure self-custody with confidence.