Ledgér.com/Start® | Start Your Ledgér Hardware Wallet Setup
Cryptocurrency security begins with understanding how to store your digital assets in the safest possible environment. As crypto continues to grow, so does the importance of protecting your keys. Software wallets offer convenience, but lack the security needed for long-term storage. That’s where a hardware wallet like Ledger® becomes essential. If you are new to the Ledger ecosystem, starting correctly at ledger.com/start ensures you follow the official, authentic, and secure setup process.
This comprehensive guide walks you through device setup, installing ledger live, configuring ledger live desktop, verifying your recovery phrase, securing your accounts, and understanding how to use the Ledger ecosystem safely from day one. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus™ or Ledger Nano X™, the steps remain simple, safe, and consistent when you begin through ledger.com/start.
Why You Should Always Begin at Ledger.com/Start
The official onboarding process at ledger.com/start ensures your Ledger hardware wallet is configured securely with verified tools. This prevents risks associated with:
Fake apps
Phishing sites
Malicious software
Unauthorized firmware
Starting at ledger.com/start guarantees that you're downloading the authentic ledger live application and following correct safety practices. Ledger never asks for your recovery phrase online, and beginning with the correct onboarding page reinforces these important security habits.
Introducing Ledger Live — The Core of Your Hardware Wallet
Once you connect your hardware wallet through ledger.com/start, you’ll be prompted to download ledger live, the official companion application. Everything you do with your wallet—tracking assets, installing apps, sending crypto, staking, or buying—happens inside ledger live or ledger live desktop.
What Ledger Live Does:
Manage multiple crypto accounts
Send and receive assets
Install blockchain apps on your Ledger device
Stake supported cryptocurrencies
Buy or swap through integrated third-party providers
Track your portfolio in real time
Update firmware and device software
Ledger Live is available for:
Desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Mobile (iOS & Android)
Both versions connect directly to your hardware wallet for secure, offline verification.
Ledger Live Desktop — Recommended for Maximum Security
Although Ledger Live mobile is convenient, ledger live desktop offers enhanced functionality, deeper device integration, and the highest level of control. Many users prefer ledger live desktop because:
It supports more blockchains
It has quicker firmware update processes
It reduces remote attack vectors
It provides more advanced portfolio tools
Ledger recommends new users begin with ledger live desktop for initial setup via ledger.com/start.
How to Start Your Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup — Step-By-Step Guide
Below is the complete onboarding process that you’ll follow when starting at ledger.com/start.
Step 1: Access the Official Setup Portal
Visit ledger.com/start to begin. You’ll choose your Ledger model:
Ledger Nano S
Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X
Ledger Flex (if applicable)
Each model follows the same core setup steps, but interface and features vary slightly.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
You will be prompted to download ledger live or ledger live desktop. Choose the desktop option for highest security.
Only download the software from the link provided via ledger.com/start.
Step 3: Install the Ledger Live Application
Run the installer and allow Ledger Live to set up your environment. Once the application opens, select:
➜ Set up a new device
Ledger Live will guide you step-by-step with visuals, tutorials, and security reminders.
Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device
Connect your device using the USB cable and follow the instructions:
Power on the device
Choose Set up as new device
Create a secure PIN
Generate your recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase is the most important part of your Ledger security. Ledger Live will show recovery phrase education, but the actual words appear only on your Ledger device screen.
The Recovery Phrase — Your Lifeline to Your Crypto
Ledger generates a 24-word recovery phrase during setup. This phrase:
Is the only way to restore your wallet
Grants full access to your crypto
Must never be typed online
Must be written down and stored safely
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase in Ledger Live, email, or messages.
Once you confirm the 24-word phrase on your device, Ledger Live will perform a security check to make sure you understand the importance of safeguarding it.
Step 5: Install Blockchain Apps
Ledger devices support many cryptocurrencies, but each blockchain requires its own app. Inside ledger live desktop, navigate to:
My Ledger → Install App
Install apps such as:
Bitcoin
Ethereum
Litecoin
Solana
XRP
Polygon
And dozens of others
Ledger Live also supports thousands of ERC-20 and EVM-based tokens.
Step 6: Add Crypto Accounts
After installing blockchain apps, you can add accounts inside ledger live. For example:
Add an Ethereum account
Add a Bitcoin SegWit or Taproot account
Add a Polygon or Binance Smart Chain account
These accounts allow you to view balances, send assets, receive crypto, and track portfolio movements inside ledger live desktop or mobile.
Step 7: Send & Receive Crypto Safely
To receive crypto:
Open ledger live
Select the correct account
Click Receive
Verify the address on your Ledger device screen
Copy and share only after confirmation
This verification step ensures there is no man-in-the-middle attack.
To send crypto, Ledger Live will require:
Confirmation inside the app
Physical approval on your Ledger device
This double verification protects your funds from unauthorized access.
Key Features of Ledger Live & Ledger Hardware Devices
1. Cold Storage Security
Private keys remain offline at all times, secured inside a certified secure chip.
2. Portfolio Tracking
View real-time charts, balances, and performance data.
3. Staking Support
Stake assets like:
Ethereum
Polkadot
Tezos
Solana
Stake safely while holding keys offline.
4. NFT Management
Ledger Live now supports managing NFTs on multiple blockchains.
5. Buy, Sell, Swap Crypto
Ledger partners with trusted third-party service providers.
6. Firmware Updates
ledger live desktop helps you install secure firmware updates directly from Ledger.
7. Advanced Privacy
Use features like:
Hidden accounts
Offline signing
Secure element protection
Best Security Practices for Ledger Users
To maintain long-term protection:
✔ Only download ledger live through ledger.com/start
✔ Store your recovery phrase offline
✔ Never share your 24-word phrase
✔ Enable a strong PIN
✔ Keep firmware updated
✔ Use ledger live desktop for sensitive operations
✔ Avoid using public or unknown computers
FAQ — Ledger.com/Start & Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup
1. What is Ledger.com/start used for?
It is the official setup portal for initializing Ledger hardware wallets safely.
2. What is Ledger Live?
ledger live is the official app for managing your Ledger device, sending crypto, and tracking your portfolio.
3. Is ledger live desktop safer than mobile?
Yes, ledger live desktop provides enhanced access control and more secure update features.
4. Can Ledger be hacked?
Your private keys remain offline, making remote hacks extremely unlikely.
5. Does Ledger store my crypto?
No, your crypto stays on the blockchain. Ledger stores your private keys securely offline.
6. What happens if my Ledger is lost?
You can recover your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase.
7. Will Ledger ever ask for my recovery phrase?
No. Ledger will never ask for it—not in ledger live, emails, or support chats.
8. How do I update firmware?
ledger live desktop guides you through verified firmware updates.
Final Thoughts
Starting your Ledger wallet setup at ledger.com/start ensures that you begin your crypto security journey with verified, authentic tools. With ledger live and ledger live desktop, Ledger provides one of the most secure and user-friendly ecosystems in the hardware wallet market. Whether you're securing Bitcoin, managing NFTs, staking assets, or simply tracking a growing portfolio, the Ledger suite gives you complete control backed by the safety of cold storage. By following the official setup instructions and practicing good security habits, you can confidently protect your digital wealth for the long term.