Official Site®® | Ledger.com/Start®® | Getting started®™

This official guide walks you through Ledger.com/Start step by step. It’s written for first-time users and returning owners who want a clean, secure setup experience. Keep this page handy while you set up your Ledger hardware wallet.

What is Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/Start is the official starting point provided by Ledger to initialize a Ledger hardware wallet, install the companion app Ledger Live, and secure your recovery phrase. Using the official start page ensures you follow recommended security practices, avoid scams, and download the correct software.

Before you begin — checklist

Read this checklist before touching the device. These simple precautions drastically reduce the chance of setup errors or compromise.

  • Buy only from official Ledger channels or authorized resellers.
  • Use a personal computer you control; avoid public or shared devices.
  • Prepare a pen and the supplied recovery sheet (or a durable backup such as a metal backup plate).
  • Make sure your internet connection is secure and your operating system is up to date.
  • Do not share your recovery phrase with anyone — not Ledger support, not friends, never online.

Step 1 — Visit Ledger.com/Start safely

Open your browser and type the address ledger.com/start manually. Do not click suspicious links from emails, social media, or messages claiming to speed up setup. Confirm the website shows the official Ledger branding and a secure HTTPS padlock in the browser address bar.

If you prefer, search for "Ledger Start" using a reputable search engine and verify the result points to the official Ledger domain before clicking.

Step 2 — Unbox and power on

Carefully unbox your Ledger device. Genuine packaging is sealed; if the device looks tampered with, contact Ledger support or your retailer immediately. Plug the device into your computer with the included cable and follow on-screen prompts on the device display.

Step 3 — Create a new wallet or restore

During the device setup you'll choose between creating a new wallet or restoring an existing wallet using a recovery phrase. If you are new, create a new wallet on the device and choose a secure PIN when prompted. If you’re restoring, carefully enter your recovery words only on the device — never on your computer.

Step 4 — Record your recovery phrase

The Ledger device will display a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). Write these words down in order on the recovery sheet provided; consider copying them to a metal backup for long-term durability. Store the backup in a safe, private place. Never photograph or store the words digitally.

Step 5 — Install Ledger Live

From Ledger.com/Start, follow the download link for Ledger Live and choose the version for your operating system. Install the app, then open it and follow the instructions to connect your Ledger device. Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application for managing accounts, installing apps on your device, and checking balances.

Step 6 — Add accounts and apps

Inside Ledger Live you will add crypto accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and install the small apps that run on your Ledger device. Each cryptocurrency usually requires its own app on the device plus an account in Ledger Live. Only install the apps you need; smaller firmware footprint is better for long-term reliability.

Best practices for long-term security

  • Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it.
  • Enable a strong PIN and consider adding a passphrase for extra privacy.
  • Keep your firmware and Ledger Live updated; updates include security fixes and improvements.
  • Be suspicious of unsolicited messages, websites, and social posts telling you to move funds or reveal your seed words.
  • Consider using a metal backup solution for protection against fire, water, and wear.

Troubleshooting & official support

If you encounter problems, return to Ledger.com/Start and consult the official support articles or contact Ledger Support through the official channels listed on the site. Avoid third-party services offering "fixes" or "recovery" for a fee — those are often scams.

Why a hardware wallet matters

Hardware wallets like Ledger store your private keys in a secure chip that never exposes them to your computer or the internet. That isolation dramatically reduces the attack surface and helps protect your crypto from malware, phishing, and remote theft. Combining Ledger with strong personal habits gives you control and peace of mind.

Final checklist

  • Device genuine and sealed on arrival.
  • Visited Ledger.com/Start manually and securely.
  • Recorded seed words physically and stored securely.
  • Installed Ledger Live from the official site.
  • Verified firmware and app installs.