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Getting started with a Ledger hardware wallet is an important step toward taking full control of your cryptocurrency. Ledger devices are designed to keep your private keys secure while allowing you to manage digital assets through a simple and guided setup process. This guide explains how to begin using a Ledger wallet, what to expect during setup, and how Ledger Support™ resources help ensure a safe and smooth experience.
Whether you are new to crypto or transitioning from an exchange or software wallet, understanding the basics of Ledger’s onboarding process is essential for long-term security.
What Is Ledger.com/Start®?
Ledger.com/Start® is the official starting point for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet. It provides verified instructions, software downloads, and educational resources to help users initialize their devices correctly and avoid common security risks.
Through this starting page, users are guided to install Ledger Live, the official companion application used to manage accounts, install apps for different cryptocurrencies, and update device firmware. Using the official start page reduces the risk of downloading fake software or following incorrect setup steps.
Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
Ledger hardware wallets are designed to protect private keys by storing them inside a secure chip isolated from internet-connected devices. This approach significantly reduces exposure to malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access.
Key advantages include:
Full self-custody of digital assets
Offline protection of private keys
Physical confirmation for transactions
Compatibility with a wide range of cryptocurrencies
By using a hardware wallet, users remain in control of their funds without relying on centralized platforms to safeguard their assets.
What You Need Before You Start
Before beginning the setup process, make sure you have the following:
A genuine Ledger hardware wallet (such as Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X)
A computer or smartphone compatible with Ledger Live
A USB cable or Bluetooth connection, depending on the device
A secure environment to write down your recovery phrase
It is strongly recommended to complete setup in a private location, free from cameras or other people.
Installing Ledger Live
The first step in the setup process is installing Ledger Live, the official Ledger application available for desktop and mobile platforms.
After downloading Ledger Live from the official source, users install it like any standard application. Upon opening Ledger Live for the first time, the app guides users through selecting their device model and choosing whether they are setting up a new wallet or restoring an existing one.
Ledger Live serves as the central interface for managing accounts, tracking balances, and interacting with supported cryptocurrencies.
Setting Up a New Ledger Device
When setting up a new device, users are guided through several important security steps directly on the hardware wallet.
Creating a PIN Code
The device prompts you to create a PIN code, which protects access to the wallet if the device is lost or stolen. The PIN is entered directly on the device, ensuring it is never exposed to your computer or phone.
Generating the Recovery Phrase
The Ledger device then generates a recovery phrase, typically consisting of 24 words. This phrase is the only backup of your wallet and is required to restore access if the device is lost, damaged, or reset.
Users must:
Write the recovery phrase down by hand
Store it offline in a secure location
Never take photos or store it digitally
Anyone with access to the recovery phrase can control the funds, which is why Ledger emphasizes protecting it above all else.
Verifying Device Authenticity
Ledger Live includes a built-in authenticity check to confirm that the connected device is genuine and running official firmware. This verification process helps protect users from counterfeit or tampered devices.
Completing this step ensures that the hardware wallet meets Ledger’s security standards before any funds are managed or transferred.
Adding Accounts and Installing Apps
Once setup is complete, users can begin adding cryptocurrency accounts through Ledger Live. Each supported cryptocurrency requires a corresponding app to be installed on the device.
The process includes:
Selecting the cryptocurrency in Ledger Live
Installing the appropriate app on the device
Creating an account linked to the hardware wallet
Ledger Live supports a wide range of assets, allowing users to manage multiple cryptocurrencies from a single interface.
Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency
Ledger Live makes sending and receiving crypto straightforward while maintaining strong security controls.
Receiving Funds
To receive crypto, Ledger Live generates an address that must be verified on the hardware wallet screen. This verification step ensures that the address has not been altered by malware.
Sending Funds
When sending crypto, users enter the transaction details in Ledger Live and then confirm them on the device. The transaction is signed securely on the hardware wallet before being broadcast to the network.
This confirmation process ensures that no transaction can be completed without the user’s physical approval.
Firmware and App Updates
Keeping firmware and apps up to date is an important part of maintaining security. Ledger Live notifies users when updates are available and guides them through the update process.
Updates may include:
Security improvements
New features
Support for additional cryptocurrencies
All updates should be performed only through official Ledger software to avoid security risks.
Ledger Support™ and Educational Resources
Ledger Support™ provides a wide range of resources to help users at every stage of their journey. These include:
Step-by-step setup guides
Troubleshooting articles
Security education and best practices
Frequently asked questions
Ledger Support emphasizes that it will never ask for your recovery phrase or private information. Any request for such details should be treated as a scam.
Common Security Best Practices
To ensure long-term safety, users should follow these best practices:
Never share your recovery phrase
Always verify transaction details on the device screen
Be cautious of phishing emails and fake websites
Use official Ledger software and links only
Store your recovery phrase in a secure, offline location
Security is a continuous process, and staying informed is a key part of protecting your assets.
Restoring a Wallet
If a Ledger device is lost, damaged, or reset, users can restore access to their funds using the recovery phrase. During restoration, the phrase is entered directly on the device, recreating the wallet exactly as it was.
This process highlights why the recovery phrase is the most critical element of wallet security.
Conclusion
Ledger.com/Start® and Ledger Support™ provide a structured and secure path for users to begin managing cryptocurrency with confidence. By combining a hardware wallet with Ledger Live and clear onboarding guidance, Ledger enables true self-custody without sacrificing usability.
From initial setup to daily transactions, Ledger’s ecosystem is designed to keep private keys protected while giving users full control over their digital assets. By following official instructions and security best practices, users can confidently take ownership of their crypto journey—starting with the right foundation.