Ledger.com/Start™ – Getting Started Guide
Welcome to the official Ledger.com/Start™ Getting Started Guide, your complete introduction to setting up and securely using your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or transitioning to self-custody, this guide will walk you through every essential step to ensure your assets remain protected.
Developed by Ledger, Ledger hardware wallets are designed to keep your private keys offline, away from hackers, phishing attempts, and malware. The Ledger.com/Start™ portal serves as the official onboarding page where users begin their secure setup journey.
Ledger.com/Start™ is the official initialization page for setting up Ledger hardware wallets, including:
This page guides users through:
• Downloading Ledger Live • Verifying device authenticity • Installing firmware • Creating or restoring a wallet • Learning critical security practices
Using Ledger.com/Start™ ensures you are accessing authentic software and following verified setup instructions.
Cryptocurrency security begins with trusted sources. Many phishing websites attempt to imitate official platforms. Beginning at Ledger.com/Start™ helps protect you from:
✔ Fake firmware downloads ✔ Malicious wallet software ✔ Phishing recovery phrase scams ✔ Unauthorized third-party applications
Ledger strongly emphasizes downloading software only from official channels.
Before visiting Ledger.com/Start™, carefully inspect your device packaging.
Checklist:
• Ensure the box is sealed and untampered • Confirm all components are included • Verify no pre-written recovery phrase is inside
Important: Ledger devices are never shipped with pre-configured recovery phrases. If you find one already filled out, do not use the device.
To begin:
Ledger Live is the official application that connects your hardware wallet to blockchain networks.
After installation, launch the application and follow on-screen instructions.
When prompted in Ledger Live, select:
“Set up as new device.”
Step 1 – Connect Your Device Plug your Ledger device into your computer or mobile device.
Step 2 – Choose a PIN Code Create a 4–8 digit PIN directly on the hardware wallet. Best Practices: ✔ Avoid predictable patterns ✔ Do not reuse PINs from other services
Step 3 – Write Down Your Recovery Phrase Your device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase.
This phrase is:
• The only backup to your wallet • The master key to your funds • Required to restore access if the device is lost or damaged
Write each word carefully in order. Store it offline in a secure place.
The 24-word recovery phrase generated during Ledger.com/Start™ setup is critical.
Security Rules:
• Never take a screenshot of your phrase • Never store it in cloud storage • Never share it with anyone • Never enter it on any website
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.
If someone obtains this phrase, they can control your assets without your device.
During setup via Ledger.com/Start™, Ledger Live automatically verifies your device’s authenticity using cryptographic attestation.
This process ensures:
✔ The device is genuine ✔ The secure element chip is authentic ✔ Firmware is official
This step is automatic and protects users from counterfeit hardware.
Ledger hardware wallets support multiple cryptocurrencies by installing blockchain-specific apps.
To install:
Apps can be installed or removed without affecting your funds because your private keys are derived from your recovery phrase.
Once apps are installed:
Ledger Live will synchronize with the blockchain and display your balance.
To receive funds:
Always confirm that the address shown in Ledger Live matches the one displayed on your hardware wallet screen.
To send funds:
Every transaction must be physically approved on your Ledger hardware wallet, ensuring malware cannot alter transaction details without your knowledge.
Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to enhance security and performance.
To update:
• Open Ledger Live • Go to “My Ledger” • Follow update instructions
Before updating:
✔ Ensure your recovery phrase is securely stored ✔ Keep your device connected ✔ Do not interrupt the update process
If your device is lost, stolen, or reset:
Your crypto balances will reappear after synchronization.
Using Ledger.com/Start™ properly is only the first step. Ongoing security depends on user habits.
✔ Keep Ledger Live updated ✔ Verify website URLs carefully ✔ Avoid using public Wi-Fi for transactions ✔ Store recovery phrase in a fireproof, waterproof location ✔ Consider a secure metal backup for long-term storage
Never:
✖ Share your recovery phrase ✖ Approve unknown transactions ✖ Download Ledger Live from third-party sources
Ledger devices support additional capabilities, including:
• NFT management • Staking supported cryptocurrencies • Connecting to decentralized applications • Multi-account portfolio management
All operations require device confirmation for enhanced security.
When you store crypto on exchanges, you rely on third parties. Hardware wallets provide self-custody, meaning:
• You control your private keys • You reduce exposure to exchange hacks • You maintain full ownership
Ledger.com/Start™ empowers users to take responsibility for their digital wealth.
Device not detected? → Try a different USB cable or port.
Ledger Live not opening? → Reinstall from Ledger.com/Start™ only.
Forgot PIN? → Reset device and restore using recovery phrase.
Sync issues? → Check internet connection and ensure latest app version.
This Ledger.com/Start™ Getting Started Guide is provided strictly for informational and educational purposes. It does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Cryptocurrency markets are volatile and involve significant risk, including the possible loss of capital.
This content is not officially affiliated with or endorsed by Ledger. Always verify information through official Ledger documentation and support resources.
Users are solely responsible for safeguarding their hardware wallet, PIN code, and 24-word recovery phrase. Loss of the recovery phrase may result in permanent loss of access to digital assets. The author assumes no liability for losses resulting from misuse, negligence, phishing attacks, or unauthorized access.
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger representatives will never request it.
Beginning your journey at Ledger.com/Start™ ensures you follow verified steps for setting up your hardware wallet securely. By combining offline private key storage with physical transaction confirmation, Ledger devices provide one of the most trusted environments for cryptocurrency self-custody.