Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger Support (Full Guide)

Setting up a hardware wallet for the first time is one of the most important steps in protecting your digital assets. The official onboarding page at ledger.com/start guides new users through initializing their device, installing secure firmware, creating a recovery phrase, and connecting to the Ledger Live application. This page serves as the trusted starting point for safely configuring your wallet and taking full control of your crypto.

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know when beginning with a Ledger device—from unboxing to first transactions—so you can secure your crypto with confidence.

1. What Is Ledger.com/Start?

ledger.com/start is the official device initialization portal for all Ledger hardware wallets. It provides:

  • Verified download links for Ledger Live

  • Device setup instructions

  • Firmware installation procedures

  • Recovery phrase guidance

  • Troubleshooting resources

  • Security best practices

Using the official start page ensures that you avoid counterfeit software and malicious clones.

2. Before You Begin: Inspect Your Device

When you first unbox your Ledger device, check the following:

• Packaging Integrity

Ledger devices now ship in a tamper-evident factory box. If the box is badly damaged or looks manipulated, do not continue the setup.

• No Recovery Phrase in the Box

A brand-new Ledger never includes a pre-written recovery phrase. If you find one, the device has been compromised.

• Device Screen Starts Fresh

When connecting for the first time, the device should display a welcome or initialization screen—not a pre-configured state.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Your Ledger via Ledger.com/Start

Step 1 — Go to the Official Start Page

Type the URL manually:

ledger.com/start

Avoid clicking ads or copied links, as fake setup pages are common phishing risks.

Step 2 — Download Ledger Live

At the start page, download Ledger Live, the official application that manages:

  • Device setup

  • Account creation

  • Coin and token management

  • Transaction signing

  • Portfolio monitoring

  • Firmware updates

Supported operating systems:

  • Windows

  • macOS

  • Linux

  • Mobile versions (iOS and Android)

For full functionality, desktop Ledger Live is recommended.

Step 3 — Install and Launch Ledger Live

After downloading:

  1. Install the app

  2. Open Ledger Live

  3. Choose Get Started

  4. Select your device model

  5. Begin the guided onboarding process

Ledger Live will walk you through each action step by step.

Step 4 — Connect Your Ledger Device

Use the USB cable included in the box:

  1. Connect your device

  2. Follow the instructions on both the device and Ledger Live

  3. Do not use unofficial cables or adapters

Your computer should recognize the device immediately.

Step 5 — Install Firmware (If Prompted)

Your Ledger may require a firmware update before initialization.

Ledger Live will:

  • Verify firmware authenticity

  • Download the newest version

  • Prompt you to confirm installation on the device

Firmware is signed and validated by Ledger’s secure element chip.

Step 6 — Create a New Wallet

Choose:

Set Up as New Device

Ledger will then:

  • Generate your private keys inside its secure element

  • Display your recovery phrase word by word

  • Require you to confirm the phrase on the device

This process never shares keys with Ledger or any third party.

4. Your Recovery Phrase: The Most Critical Step

During setup, you will receive a 24-word (or occasionally 12-word) recovery phrase generated entirely inside the secure chip. This phrase is the master key to all your crypto.

Store It Securely Offline

You must:

  • Write the words down on paper or metal

  • Keep them in order

  • Never take photos

  • Never save in cloud storage

  • Never type it on a computer or website

  • Never share with anyone

Anyone with your phrase can access your funds.

Confirm Your Phrase

The device will request confirmation to ensure accuracy.

If you lose the phrase, Ledger cannot recover it for you—this is intentional for maximum privacy and self-custody.

5. Set Your PIN Code

Create a 4–8 digit PIN to unlock your device.

Tips for a secure PIN:

  • Avoid repeating digits

  • Avoid common combinations

  • Choose the maximum length for added protection

This prevents unauthorized access if the device is lost or stolen.

6. Open Ledger Live and Add Accounts

After setup:

  1. Open Ledger Live

  2. Navigate to Accounts

  3. Click Add Account

  4. Select a cryptocurrency

  5. Let Ledger Live synchronize its blockchain data

Each added account creates a dedicated wallet address on your device.

7. Receiving Crypto for the First Time

To receive funds:

  1. Open Ledger Live

  2. Select an account

  3. Click Receive

  4. Verify the address on the computer

  5. Verify the same address on the device screen

  6. Share the verified address with the sender

Always trust the device screen, as it cannot be tampered with by malware.

8. Sending Crypto Safely

To send:

  • Choose an account

  • Enter the recipient’s address

  • Enter the amount

  • Review transaction details

  • Confirm on your Ledger device

The physical confirmation prevents remote theft.

9. Ledger Live Features You Should Explore

• Portfolio Tracking

View performance, asset allocation, and real-time values.

• Coin and Token Support

Ledger supports 5,500+ coins and tokens via native or third-party apps.

• Staking Tools

Stake supported assets (e.g., DOT, ATOM, ETH via partners).

• Buy, Sell, & Swap

Ledger Live integrates with regulated partners for on-ramping and off-ramping.

• Secure Marketplace Access

Install apps for supported blockchains directly from Ledger Live.

10. Advanced Security Features

• Passphrase (Advanced Users)

Adds an optional “25th word” to your recovery phrase, generating an additional hidden wallet.

• Blind Signing

Enables interacting with smart contracts once you understand the risks.

• Secure Element Hardware

Your private keys never leave the chip.

• Anti-Tampering Design

Ledger devices confirm authenticity at each startup.

11. Troubleshooting During Setup

Device Not Recognized

  • Try another USB cable

  • Reboot your computer

  • Update Ledger Live

Firmware Will Not Install

  • Ensure you have the latest Ledger Live

  • Try a different USB port

  • Use a direct connection (no hubs)

PIN Blocked

If too many incorrect attempts occur, the device wipes itself for safety.
You can then restore it with your recovery phrase.

Ledger Live Won’t Sync

  • Restart Ledger Live

  • Clear cache in settings

  • Confirm internet stability

12. Safety Guidelines After Setup

To maintain long-term security:

Always Keep Your Recovery Phrase Offline

Preferably on:

  • Fireproof storage

  • Metal backup plates

  • Separate secure locations

Regularly Update Ledger Live & Firmware

Updates include important security enhancements.

Beware of Phishing

Ledger will never ask for:

  • Your recovery phrase

  • Your private keys

  • Remote access to your computer

Avoid Fake Support Websites

Always navigate manually or use trusted bookmarks.

13. Final Thoughts: Your Crypto Journey Begins at Ledger.com/Start

The onboarding process at ledger.com/start provides a safe, structured, and reliable way to set up your hardware wallet. By following the official steps—installing Ledger Live, generating your recovery phrase, setting up your PIN, and adding your accounts—you build a strong foundation of security.

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