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

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start®: your official onboarding portal for configuring your Ledger hardware wallet safely and securely. This guide walks you step by step—from unboxing your device to managing crypto via Ledger Live—to ensure you begin your crypto journey with confidence.

Why Start at Ledger.com/Start®?

Using the official setup portal matters. Many phishing or counterfeit sites mimic Ledger, attempting to trick users into installing malicious software or entering recovery phrases. By beginning at the verified Ledger.com/Start®, you:

• Download genuine versions of Ledger Live and firmware updates
• Follow guided, official instructions tailored to your device
• Avoid malicious or tampered downloads from unknown sources
• Receive security tips and warnings curated by Ledger

Important: Always verify that the URL is https://www.ledger.com/start (or your local variant) and not a lookalike. Phishing attacks are common in the crypto space.

What You’ll Find on Ledger.com/Start®

The setup portal provides a unified starting place for:

• Verified downloads for Ledger Live (desktop & mobile)
• Firmware update and device validation tools
• Step‑by‑step setup instructions for Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.
• Security guidance (seed management, phishing avoidance, etc.)
• Links to support, FAQ, educational resources, and updates

Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide

1. Unbox and Inspect Your Device

Start by carefully opening your Ledger box. Inside, you should typically find:

• Your Ledger hardware (e.g. Nano S Plus or Nano X)
• USB cable and, if relevant, adapter
• Recovery (seed) sheet(s)
• Quick start or instruction booklet

Make sure the packaging is sealed and untampered. If you see any pre‑written recovery phrase or broken seal, do not proceed—contact Ledger support immediately.

2. Navigate to Ledger.com/Start®

Open your web browser and type in ledger.com/start manually or use a trusted bookmark. Avoid clicking links from emails or third‑party sites. The official portal will guide you to the correct setup flow.

3. Download & Install Ledger Live

From the setup portal, choose the version of Ledger Live that matches your system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). The app acts as your secure interface for crypto management.

Follow the installer instructions, install, and then launch Ledger Live. The app will prompt you to begin device setup. Ledger Live does not expose private keys—the device retains them. (This is standard Ledger security architecture.)

4. Initialize Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth, for Nano X). Ledger Live will guide you to:

• Choose “Set up as new device” or “Restore device” (if you already have a seed)
• Create a secure PIN code (4–8 digits, avoid trivial patterns)
• Generate your 24‑word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly, one word per line, in order. Store it offline.
• Confirm your recovery phrase by entering selected words when prompted

Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer, photo, or online form—it must remain offline and private. Ledger support will never ask for it.

5. Verify Device Authenticity & Update Firmware

Ledger Live will prompt you to verify that your ledger device is genuine and up-to-date. Confirm prompts on the device itself. If a firmware update is available, install it through Ledger Live. Do **not** disconnect while updating—the device might reboot. (This ensures your device is not counterfeit or compromised.)

6. Install Asset Apps & Add Accounts

Ledger devices support multiple cryptocurrencies via separate apps installed on the device:

1. Open Ledger Live and go to **Manager**
2. Connect and unlock your device
3. Browse available asset apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and install those you need

After installing, go to **Accounts** in Ledger Live and add accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage. This lets you view balances, transaction history, and manage operations.

7. Receiving & Sending Crypto

Receiving Funds

1. Select your account in Ledger Live
2. Click “Receive” and open the corresponding app on your device
3. Compare the address shown on Ledger Live with the device’s screen—only use it if they match
4. Share the verified address to receive funds

Sending Funds

1. Choose the account from which to send
2. Click “Send” and enter the recipient’s address, amount, and fee
3. Review transaction data carefully
4. Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device (you must physically approve it)

This two-step confirmation (in app + on device) prevents unauthorized or malicious transactions.

Important Security Best Practices

To keep your crypto safe over the long term, follow these essential guidelines:

• Only download Ledger Live and firmware from Ledger.com/Start®
• Never reveal your recovery phrase or PIN to anyone
• Always verify addresses and transaction details on your Ledger device, not just in the app
• Store your recovery phrase securely offline (e.g. safe, metal backup), not digitally
• Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live app updated regularly
• Bookmark the official site and avoid following links from unknown sources
• Consider enabling passphrase / hidden wallet feature for extra protection, if comfortable

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common pitfalls and how to resolve them:

• Device not detected: Try another USB port or cable; ensure Ledger Live and Bridge (if needed) are installed and running.
• Firmware update failed: Don’t unplug mid‑update; reboot and retry; if persistent, seek official support.
• Forgot PIN: After too many wrong attempts, the device wipes itself. Restore using your recovery phrase.
• Missing accounts or balances: Double-check you installed correct apps and added corresponding accounts in Ledger Live.
• Fake software or seed requests: Immediately abort and reinstall only from Ledger.com/Start®. This is likely a phishing attempt.

After Setup: Using Ledger Live & Beyond

With everything set up, Ledger Live (and your Ledger device) enable powerful features:

• Portfolio tracking across multiple assets
• Swapping or exchanging cryptos securely
• Staking of supported assets (e.g. ETH, ADA) for rewards
• Connecting to Web3, DeFi, and NFT platforms using your hardware wallet as signer
• Managing firmware updates and app installations through the same interface

Because your private keys never leave the hardware, even interactions with decentralized apps remain safe.

Final Thoughts & Summary

Getting started with Ledger in the right way is crucial. By beginning at Ledger.com/Start®, you ensure every step—from downloading software to confirming transactions—is guided by Ledger’s official, secure process.

Here’s your quick checklist:

1. Unbox and inspect your Ledger hardware
2. Visit Ledger.com/Start® via HTTPS
3. Download and install Ledger Live
4. Initialize your device (PIN, recovery phrase)
5. Verify authenticity and update firmware
6. Install asset apps and add accounts
7. Receive/send crypto with physical confirmation
8. Follow strict security practices (never share seed, verify everything, use authorized links)

With that in place, your Ledger device becomes your trusted vault, and Ledger Live your gateway to managing crypto—confidently, privately, and securely.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Ledger products, software, and recommended practices may evolve. Always consult the latest official Ledger documentation and support channels. Loss of private keys or recovery phrase cannot be recovered—ensure you follow best practices carefully.

For a visual walkthrough, see Ledger’s official video: How to Get Started with Ledger ::contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}