Ledger.com/Start – Secure Your Crypto Journey with Ledger®

In today’s digital financial landscape, protecting your crypto assets isn’t just a preference—it’s a necessity. With the rise in cyberattacks, phishing scams, and exchange collapses, crypto holders are turning to hardware wallets as the gold standard for self-custody. Among the most trusted names in the space is Ledger®, known for its secure hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X.

If you've recently purchased a Ledger device, your next step is setting it up correctly. The official setup process begins at Ledger.com/start, designed to guide you through every stage securely. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use Ledger’s tools to confidently safeguard and manage your digital assets—without exposing your private keys online.

What Is Ledger®?

Ledger® is a French company specializing in hardware wallets designed to store private keys offline. Its secure chips and proprietary operating system protect your crypto assets from online threats. Unlike software wallets or custodial exchanges, a Ledger wallet ensures only you control your crypto.

The Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X support over 5,000 crypto assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, Cardano, and many ERC-20 and BEP-20 tokens. The devices pair with Ledger Live, the official companion app, allowing you to manage your crypto, stake tokens, access NFTs, and interact with Web3—all with military-grade security.

Why Start at Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/start is the official and only recommended way to begin using your Ledger device. Setting up your hardware wallet through unofficial websites or tools puts your assets at serious risk. The Ledger.com/start portal ensures:

You download genuine Ledger Live software
Your Ledger device is authentic and uncompromised
You receive step-by-step guidance on security best practices
Your firmware is up-to-date

This dedicated setup platform is the cornerstone of a secure onboarding experience. Skipping it or relying on third-party instructions could expose you to fraudulent devices or malicious software.

What You Need Before Setup

Before starting the process, make sure you have the following items ready:

Your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X hardware wallet
A desktop or mobile device with internet access
A USB cable for wired connection (Bluetooth is optional with Nano X)
A quiet, private space for setup
A pen and paper to record your 24-word recovery phrase

Never use a device that comes with a pre-written recovery phrase or setup sheet. These are counterfeit and can compromise your wallet.

How to Get Started with Ledger

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect

Make sure the packaging is sealed and untampered. Ledger devices do not come pre-set. You will generate your unique 24-word recovery phrase during setup.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the only official app to manage your Ledger wallet. It allows you to add crypto accounts, install blockchain apps, and manage your assets. Download it directly via Ledger.com/start to avoid phishing or malware risks.

Step 3: Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone. Choose to "Set up as new device." You’ll be prompted to:

Set a secure PIN code
Generate and write down your 24-word recovery phrase
Confirm your phrase by re-selecting the words in order on the device

This recovery phrase is your only backup. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, the phrase is your key to recovering your funds on a new Ledger device.

Never take photos or store it digitally. Never share it. Ledger will never ask for it.

Step 4: Verify Authenticity

Ledger Live will walk you through verifying your device’s integrity using its secure element chip. This ensures you’re not using a tampered or counterfeit product.

Step 5: Install Crypto Apps and Add Accounts

Ledger Live allows you to install apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana onto your device. Each app supports a specific blockchain. After installing an app, add an account to manage your holdings within Ledger Live.

Top Features of Ledger + Ledger Live

Offline private key storage with secure chip technology
Real-time portfolio tracking
Send, receive, and manage crypto securely
Stake assets like Ethereum and Polkadot to earn rewards
Manage NFTs from Ethereum and other supported networks
Access DeFi, DApps, and Web3 services securely
Firmware and app updates to keep your system secure

Security Best Practices

Only use software and devices from official Ledger sources
Keep your 24-word phrase offline and stored in a secure location
Never share your phrase with anyone—no exceptions
Enable optional passphrase protection for added security
Be cautious of phishing emails, browser extensions, and fake support contacts

Ledger will never contact you to ask for your recovery phrase. Always verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent Ledger.

Final Thoughts

Using Ledger hardware wallets through the official setup process at Ledger.com/start is the foundation of a secure crypto experience. With Ledger, you’re taking full control of your financial future by protecting your assets from theft, loss, or compromise.

Whether you're holding a few hundred dollars in Bitcoin or managing a diverse portfolio across multiple blockchains, Ledger offers the tools you need to safeguard your investments with confidence. Taking a few extra minutes to follow the proper setup steps could protect you from devastating losses down the road.