What is Ledger.com/Start®?
Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding hub for Ledger hardware wallets. It centralizes downloads for Ledger Live (desktop & mobile), setup instructions, firmware guidance, and links to security resources. Its purpose is simple: help you bring a hardware wallet from box to protected custody in a few clear steps.
Before you begin — quick checklist
- Your Ledger Nano device and the supplied cable.
- A computer or mobile phone with internet access and a modern browser.
- The recovery sheet included in the box and a pen for writing your recovery phrase.
- A clean, private workspace. No photos, no cloud backups for your seed.
- Patience — take your time during seed generation and verification.
ledger.com/start URL. Scammers create fake onboarding pages and downloads—double-check the domain before installing software or entering sensitive information.Step 1 — Unbox and inspect
Open the box and verify packaging integrity. Ledger devices include anti-tamper features; if the box looks opened or damaged, stop and contact the seller or Ledger support. Your kit should include the device, a USB cable (or Bluetooth-capable device for Nano X), and a recovery sheet.
Step 2 — Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts and firmware. Visit ledger.com/start, download the correct Ledger Live build for your OS, and install it. Mobile users can find Ledger Live in the App Store or Google Play — prefer official app store installs.
- Download Ledger Live from the official page; verify HTTPS and the domain.
- Install and open Ledger Live; choose to set up a new device when prompted.
Step 3 — Connect your Ledger device
Connect the Nano to your computer or phone using the supplied cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Unlock the device when it powers on and follow the Ledger Live prompts. Ledger Live may ask you to install device firmware or apps for specific coins — proceed only with official updates and approved apps.
Step 4 — Generate and record your recovery phrase
The device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words) during setup. This phrase is the ultimate backup—anyone with it can restore your funds. Write the words carefully on the provided recovery sheet, in the exact order shown. Do not photograph, screenshot, or type the phrase into a digital device.
- Write each word legibly and in order.
- Double-check spelling and order during verification.
- Store the sheet offline in a secure place (safe, safety deposit box, or durable metal backup).
Step 5 — Choose a PIN
Set a PIN to protect access to your device. The PIN entry uses the device’s screen mapping to reduce the risk of shoulder-surfing, but do not write the PIN on the recovery sheet or store it with the phrase.
Step 6 — Install coin apps & add accounts
Ledger uses small per-coin apps installed on the device for managing different blockchains. Install the apps you need via Ledger Live's Manager tab (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts in Ledger Live to view balances and transaction history. When receiving funds, always verify the address on both the app and the device screen.
Step 7 — Verify and secure
Ledger Live will ask you to verify certain setup steps. Confirm words or addresses as requested. After setup, consider additional security options such as enabling passphrase-protected hidden wallets if you fully understand the recovery implications.
Daily usage and best practices
Once set up, typical tasks are receiving, sending, swapping, and staking (where supported). All signing must be confirmed on the device itself — this is the fundamental security model. Follow these rules every time:
- Verify receiving addresses on the device screen before sharing them.
- Confirm transaction details (amounts, fees, destinations) on-device before approving.
- Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware up to date using official channels only.
- Use the official Ledger.com domain for downloads and support.
Security: extra steps to protect large holdings
If you’re storing significant value, consider the following additional protections:
- Multiple backups: Keep at least two physical backups of your recovery phrase in separate, secure locations.
- Use a passphrase: A passphrase creates extra hidden wallets. It adds security but increases recovery complexity — losing the passphrase makes the hidden wallet inaccessible even with the seed.
- Metal backup: Use a non-corroding metal backup solution to protect the phrase from fire, water, and time.
- Air-gapped setup: For the highest security, perform critical operations on an air-gapped machine you control.
Troubleshooting & common issues
Device not detected
Try a different USB cable or port, unlock the device, and ensure Ledger Live has permission to access USB devices. Rebooting the host device often resolves transient issues.
Firmware update problems
Only install firmware through Ledger Live. If an update fails, reconnect and retry. If the device becomes unresponsive, consult official support — do not install unofficial firmware.
Forgotten PIN
Forgetting your PIN requires a device reset and recovery with your recovery phrase. Without the phrase, funds are unrecoverable.
Lost or damaged recovery sheet
If you lose the seed but still control the device, create a new wallet and transfer funds immediately. If you lose both device and seed, funds cannot be restored.
FAQ
- Do I need Ledger Live to use my device?
- Ledger Live provides the official, user-friendly experience and firmware management. You can also use compatible third-party wallets, but signing always happens on the Ledger device.
- Can I backup my recovery phrase digitally?
- No. Digital backups (photos, cloud notes) are strongly discouraged because they can be stolen. Use offline physical backups.
- Is Ledger secure?
- Ledger devices are designed to isolate private keys in secure hardware and require physical confirmation for all sensitive actions. Security also depends on user behavior like protecting the recovery phrase and verifying official downloads.