Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started®— Ledger Hardware Wallet®

In the evolving world of digital finance, protecting crypto assets has become more important than ever. With cyber threats, phishing attacks, and exchange vulnerabilities on the rise, self-custody is now the gold standard for crypto security. Ledger hardware wallets provide a trusted solution for securely managing cryptocurrencies while maintaining full ownership of private keys.

This guide walks you through Ledger.com/Start®, the official onboarding portal designed to help users safely set up their Ledger hardware wallet and begin managing crypto with confidence.

What Is Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® is the official setup and education hub for Ledger hardware wallets. It ensures that users:

  • Install authentic Ledger software
  • Configure devices correctly
  • Learn best practices for crypto security
  • Avoid counterfeit apps and phishing scams

By starting at this page, users minimize risks and ensure their device operates exactly as designed by Ledger.

Why Choose a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

Ledger wallets combine offline cold storage with a user-friendly interface, offering one of the highest security standards in the crypto industry.

Key Benefits:

  • Private keys never leave the device
  • Secure Element (CC EAL5+) chip
  • Protection from malware and online attacks
  • Support for 5,500+ cryptocurrencies
  • Full control over funds (self-custody)

Unlike exchanges or software wallets, Ledger ensures you are the sole owner of your digital assets.

Supported Ledger Devices

Ledger.com/Start® supports the latest official Ledger devices, including:

  • Ledger Nano S Plus
  • Ledger Nano X
  • Ledger Stax

Each device follows the same secure onboarding flow while offering different features such as Bluetooth connectivity or touchscreen support.

Step-by-Step: Getting Started with Ledger.com/Start®

1. Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

Ensure the box is factory-sealed. Ledger devices do not come pre-configured and never include a recovery phrase.

If you find a recovery phrase inside the box, do not use the device.

2. Visit Ledger.com/Start®

Using a secure browser, navigate to the official setup page. This guarantees that you download only authentic Ledger software.

From there, select your device model to begin guided onboarding.

3. Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app that allows you to:

  • Install crypto apps
  • Send and receive assets
  • Track portfolio value
  • Stake supported coins
  • Manage NFTs

Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

4. Initialize Your Device

When powering on your Ledger device:

  • Choose “Set up as new device”
  • Create a PIN code
  • Carefully write down your 24-word recovery phrase

This recovery phrase is the master key to your wallet and must be stored offline and privately.

5. Confirm Recovery Phrase

Ledger will ask you to verify random words from your recovery phrase to ensure accuracy. This step confirms that you can restore your wallet if the device is ever lost or damaged.

Best Practices for Ledger Security

  • Never share your recovery phrase
  • Store recovery words offline only
  • Avoid screenshots or cloud backups
  • Verify addresses directly on the device screen
  • Only install apps through Ledger Live
  • Bookmark Ledger.com to avoid phishing

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase—ever.

Managing Crypto with Ledger Live

Once setup is complete, Ledger Live becomes your control center.

You can:

  • Buy crypto securely
  • Swap assets directly
  • Stake coins like ETH, SOL, and ADA
  • View NFT collections
  • Monitor transactions in real time

Every transaction must be physically confirmed on the Ledger device, adding an extra layer of security.

Ledger for Long-Term Investors and Active Users

Whether you are a long-term holder or an active DeFi user, Ledger supports both:

  • Cold storage for long-term holding
  • Web3 connectivity via MetaMask
  • DeFi and dApp interaction
  • NFT marketplaces

Ledger bridges convenience and security without compromising ownership.

Common Setup Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using unofficial websites or apps
  • Skipping recovery phrase verification
  • Storing recovery words digitally
  • Buying second-hand devices
  • Ignoring firmware updates

Starting at Ledger.com/Start® helps prevent these errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Ledger.com/Start® safe to use?

Yes. It is Ledger’s official onboarding portal designed to protect users from counterfeit software and phishing attempts.

2. What happens if I lose my Ledger device?

You can restore access to your funds on a new Ledger device using your 24-word recovery phrase.

3. Can Ledger be used without Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is recommended, but advanced users can connect Ledger to third-party wallets like MetaMask for Web3 access.

4. Does Ledger support NFTs?

Yes. Ledger supports NFTs on Ethereum and other networks via Ledger Live and compatible third-party platforms.

5. How often should I update Ledger firmware?

Firmware updates should be installed when available to ensure security improvements and compatibility with new assets