Ledger.com/start: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for New Ledger Wallet Users
If you just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet—whether it’s a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X—the first thing you should do is visit Ledger.com/start. This is the official setup page that helps you install Ledger Live, configure your device, and secure your crypto safely. Since hardware wallets protect your digital assets by keeping private keys offline, starting your setup correctly is very important. This guide explains everything in clear, easy language so even beginners can follow along without confusion.
What Is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal created by Ledger. It is designed to guide new users through the right setup steps, reducing mistakes and avoiding security risks. Many fake wallet apps and scam websites exist online, so using this official page ensures you’re downloading the correct Ledger Live app and following verified instructions. Everything you need—downloads, tutorials, safety tips, and device-specific steps—is neatly organized in one place.
Step 1: Check Your Ledger Box
Before you visit Ledger.com/start, take a moment to check what’s inside your package:
Your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X
USB cable
Recovery phrase sheets (blank)
Quick-start booklet
If the recovery sheet is already filled out with a 24-word phrase, stop immediately. Ledger never provides a prewritten recovery phrase. A used or tampered device is unsafe and should not be trusted.
Step 2: Visit the Official Page — Ledger.com/start
Open your browser and manually type Ledger.com/start. This ensures you are on the authentic site. Avoid clicking random links from emails or social media.
Once you’re on the page, you’ll be able to choose your device model. After choosing it, the website will guide you to download Ledger Live, the main software used to manage your Ledger wallet. Ledger Live gives you access to:
Portfolio management
App installations for different blockchains
Secure crypto transactions
Firmware updates
This app is necessary for completing your device setup and managing your assets later.
Step 3: Download and Install Ledger Live
On Ledger.com/start, click the download button for your operating system—Windows, Mac, or Linux. Once downloaded, install the software and open it.
Ledger Live will ask you whether you want to set up a new device or restore an old one. Since you’re starting fresh, click “Set up a new device.” The app will provide helpful checklists and reminders for each step.
Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device
Use the USB cable to connect your Ledger device to your computer. When it turns on, the small screen will display basic instructions.
You’ll now complete two crucial tasks:
Set a PIN Code
Your PIN code protects access to your device.
Choose a secure PIN that’s easy for you to remember.
Write it down privately if needed, but never store it online.
If the wrong PIN is entered three times, the device resets for safety.
Your PIN protects your device, but not your funds—that responsibility belongs to your recovery phrase.
Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
After choosing your PIN, your Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. These 24 words are the ultimate key to your crypto. Anyone with this phrase can access your funds, so treat it with extreme care.
Important rules to follow:
Write the words exactly in the order shown.
Use the blank recovery sheets provided.
Never take a photo of the phrase.
Never upload it to cloud storage.
Never share it with anyone—not even Ledger support.
Ledger does not store or see your recovery phrase. Only you have access to it.
Step 5: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
Next, the device will ask you to confirm certain words from your 24-word phrase. This ensures you wrote everything correctly. Take your time—accuracy here is crucial. If even one word is wrong, you may not be able to recover your wallet later.
Step 6: Install Crypto Apps in Ledger Live
Return to Ledger Live. The app will now guide you through installing apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to store.
Here’s how it works:
Open Ledger Live.
Go to My Ledger.
Install the apps you need—Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.
Add accounts for each cryptocurrency.
Each crypto requires its own app. These apps allow your Ledger to interact with different blockchains in a secure way.
Step 7: Receive Crypto Safely
With your accounts added, you're ready to receive crypto.
To receive funds:
Open the specific account in Ledger Live
Click Receive
Ledger Live will show you a receiving address
Your Ledger device will display the same address
Confirm that both match
This important verification step protects you from malware that could alter addresses. Once confirmed, you can transfer crypto to your Ledger wallet from exchanges or other wallets.
Step 8: Keep Your Ledger Wallet Secure
After setup, follow these long-term safety practices:
Keep your recovery phrase stored privately and securely
Never enter your recovery phrase online
Only download updates from Ledger Live
Keep your device firmware updated
Beware of phishing emails or fake “support agents”
Crypto security is a shared responsibility—Ledger provides secure hardware, but your habits protect your funds.
Conclusion
Ledger.com/start is the safest and easiest way to set up your Ledger hardware wallet. By following its official instructions—installing Ledger Live, choosing a PIN, writing down your recovery phrase, installing apps, and verifying addresses—you ensure your crypto stays protected with one of the most trusted devices in the industry. Even if you're a complete beginner, the process is simple, guided, and designed with security at every step.