Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started

Why Use Ledger.com/Start?

The Ledger hardware wallet ecosystem is only as secure as your initial setup. Phishing websites, counterfeit devices, or misconfigured wallets are common attack vectors. Ledger.com/Start ensures you begin your crypto journey on the correct path:

• Authenticity & Trust: You are following the official, verified setup flow from Ledger itself. No risk of fake instructions or malicious software.
• Clarity & Guidance: Step-by-step directions tailored to your device make setup intuitive, even for first-time users.
• Security from the Start: You are guided to establish a secure PIN, generate and safeguard your recovery phrase, and verify your device.
• Access to Ledger Live: You’ll download the official companion app that lets you manage assets, update firmware, and interact with Web3 services.

⚠️ Always type ledger.com/start manually or use a trusted bookmark. Do not follow links from random emails or ads. Ledger warns that only the official site is safe. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

• Your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax or other supported model).
• The USB cable (or Bluetooth connection, if your device supports it).
• A computer or mobile device (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS) with internet access.
• Pen and physical backup paper or recovery card (never digital) for writing down your recovery phrase.
• A calm, interruption‑free environment — setup requires attention to detail.

Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide via Ledger.com/Start

1. Go to Ledger.com/Start Open your browser and navigate to https://ledger.com/start. Confirm you are on the official domain. Avoid search engine redirects or third-party links. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
2. Select Your Device Model Ledger may ask you to choose which hardware wallet you have (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax) so the instructions and firmware files match your device. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
3. Download Ledger Live Ledger Live is the official software companion. Choose the version compatible with your operating system, download it directly from Ledger.com, and install it. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
4. Launch Ledger Live and Begin Device Setup Open Ledger Live and follow the onboarding wizard. You will either set up a new device or restore an existing wallet from a recovery phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
5. Create a PIN Code Your Ledger will prompt you to choose a PIN (typically 4‑8 digits). This PIN guards physical access to your device. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
6. Generate & Write Down Your Recovery Phrase The device shows a 24‑word recovery phrase. You must write it down in order on physical backup sheets (never digitally). Confirm the words when prompted. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
7. Verify the Recovery Phrase As a check, the device will ask you to confirm some words from the phrase to ensure you recorded them correctly. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
8. Update Firmware (if needed) In Ledger Live’s Manager or Settings section, check if there’s a firmware update. If so, follow the official instructions to safely install it. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
9. Install Cryptocurrency Apps Ledger devices support multiple blockchains via apps. Use Ledger Live to install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other coins you intend to use. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
10. Add Accounts & Start Using In Ledger Live, add accounts for your coins, check balances, and begin sending or receiving transactions. Each transaction must be confirmed physically on your Ledger device. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Security Best Practices & Warnings

• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase or PIN with anyone—not even Ledger support.
• Do not enter your recovery phrase into any website or software. The only device that sees it should be your Ledger itself.
• Always download Ledger Live from the official site (ledger.com). Avoid third-party or link‑based installs. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Verify device authenticity when offered, via Ledger Live’s built-in checks.
• Keep your firmware, Ledger Live software, and operating system up to date.
• Use reliable USB cables or Bluetooth (for supported devices)—avoid defective hubs or adapters.
• Be suspicious of any site, email, or message asking for your recovery phrase. Many phishing scams mimic Ledger interfaces. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• If your device ever asks for your seed phrase outside of the setup or restore flow, it is likely a scam.
• Store backups in secure, offline locations (metal backups, safe deposit boxes, etc.).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Detected

If Ledger Live or your computer fails to detect the device:

• Try a different USB cable or port.
• Restart your computer or mobile device.
• Ensure Ledger Live has permission to access USB devices.
• Try a different computer or OS to isolate the issue.

Firmware Update Fails / Device Disconnects

If a firmware installation fails or disconnects:

• Ensure the USB connection is stable (avoid hubs).
• Disable antivirus or firewall temporarily (if safe to do so).
• Retry the update process carefully.
• Consult official Ledger support or documentation if problems persist.

Ledger Live Doesn’t Sync or Show Accounts

If your accounts or balances do not appear:

• Make sure the correct cryptocurrency app is installed on your device via Ledger Live’s Manager.
• Ensure your device is unlocked and connected properly when opening Ledger Live.
• Refresh or restart Ledger Live.
• Clear cache or re-add accounts from scratch.

Using Ledger Live & Managing Crypto Safely

After setup via Ledger.com/Start, Ledger Live becomes your command center:

• Portfolio View — see all your account balances and holdings in one place.
• Send & Receive — initiate transactions in software, but always confirm them physically on your Ledger device.
• Swap & Buy — many integrated partners let you buy or swap assets directly in Ledger Live while your keys stay secure.
• Staking & Rewards — participate in supported staking networks directly from Ledger Live (e.g. ETH, DOT, etc.).
• App Management — install/uninstall cryptocurrency apps on your device via the Manager section.
• Firmware Updates & Security Alerts — Ledger ships updates to improve support and fix vulnerabilities. Always apply updates. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

Real‑World Warnings & Community Insights

Ledger users and forums frequently warn of phishing or scam attempts that mimic the Ledger setup or recovery process. For example:

> “I went to start.ledgerwallet.com … I was forwarded to an address telling me my Mac had viruses … I switched to Chrome and typed the address again and it appeared correct.” :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

> “Fake Ledger Live update! If you see this, do a full reinstall … only install Ledger Live from Ledger.com.” :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Another user reported receiving suspicious “Ledger” emails attempting to trick them into revealing their recovery phrase or private data. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16} The consensus: treat all messages and websites with extreme caution, validate domains and never share your secret words. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

🔒 Always remain vigilant. Ledger’s security is only as strong as the practices you follow.

Why Ledger & What Makes It Trusted

Ledger hardware wallets remain among the most trusted in the crypto industry because they:

• Use a **secure element chip** (certified CC EAL5+), which offers high levels of physical and software resistance. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Keep **private keys fully offline** — only signatures leave the device after confirmation. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Support thousands of **cryptocurrencies**, via add‑on apps on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Offer **firmware updates**, **security patches**, and active development to respond to evolving threats. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
• Provide **Ledger Live**, a unified interface for managing assets, staking, swaps, and connecting to Web3 services. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

All of this combines to give you a balance of usability and robust security—provided the setup is done carefully.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Starting out on the right foot with Ledger.com/Start is crucial. It ensures you avoid counterfeit or misleading guides, set up your device securely, and take full control of your crypto assets with confidence.

After following the setup, you can dive deeper:

• Explore Ledger’s educational resources and guides.
• Learn about advanced uses like hidden wallets (passphrase), multiple accounts, and using a full node backend.
• Keep your firmware and Ledger Live installations updated to benefit from security patches and new features.
• Stay alert to phishing threats and always validate any message or link purporting to be from Ledger.

If you ever face issues, consult Ledger’s official support, community forums, or knowledge base—but only via **ledger.com** or links you trust. Good luck, and welcome to your journey in crypto security!