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Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet via Ledger.com/Start
If you’ve just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, your first and most important step is setting it up correctly. The official setup portal, Ledger.com/Start, is designed to guide you through the process securely and efficiently. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about setting up your Ledger device, installing the required software, securing your recovery phrase, and managing your crypto assets safely.
Ledger hardware wallets are developed by Ledger, a leading company in the cryptocurrency security space. Popular devices like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X are trusted by millions worldwide for secure crypto storage.
Why Use Ledger.com/Start?
When setting up a hardware wallet, security is everything. Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding page created by Ledger to ensure:
You install authentic Ledger software
Your device firmware is genuine
You avoid phishing websites
You follow correct security procedures
Always verify you are visiting the official Ledger website before proceeding. Never use third-party links to set up your hardware wallet.
What You Need Before Getting Started
Before you begin the setup process, make sure you have:
Your new Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) or smartphone (for Nano X)
A stable internet connection
A pen and the recovery sheet included in the box
Avoid setting up your wallet in public spaces. Choose a private and secure location where no one can see your recovery phrase.
Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start
Open your browser and manually type the official Ledger setup URL. Once on the page, you’ll be prompted to:
Select your Ledger device model
Download Ledger Live
Follow on-screen setup instructions
The website will guide you step-by-step to ensure safe installation and configuration.
Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion app for managing your crypto assets. It allows you to:
Install cryptocurrency apps on your device
Check account balances
Send and receive crypto
Buy, swap, and stake supported assets
Update firmware
Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website.
Installation Process
Choose your operating system (Windows/macOS/Linux).
Download the installer.
Run the file and complete installation.
Open Ledger Live.
Once launched, select “Get Started.”
Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Device
After installing Ledger Live, connect your device using the USB cable.
You will see two options:
Set up as new device
Restore from recovery phrase
If this is your first time using the device, select Set up as new device.
Create a PIN Code
You’ll be prompted to create a PIN code directly on the device. This PIN:
Protects your device from unauthorized access
Must be entered every time you connect the device
Choose a PIN that is secure but memorable. Do not share it with anyone.
Step 4: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
This is the most critical step in the setup process.
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase). These words:
Are displayed only once
Must be written down in the correct order
Give full access to your crypto funds
Never:
Take a photo of the phrase
Store it digitally
Share it with anyone
Enter it on any website
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.
If someone obtains your 24 words, they can access and steal your funds.
Step 5: Verify Your Recovery Phrase
After writing down all 24 words, your device will ask you to confirm selected words from the phrase.
This ensures that:
You wrote them correctly
The phrase is secure
The device is properly initialized
Once verified, your device setup is complete.
Step 6: Add Accounts in Ledger Live
Now that your device is initialized:
Open Ledger Live
Go to “Accounts”
Click “Add Account”
Choose the cryptocurrency
Install the corresponding app on your device
For example, if you want to store Bitcoin:
Install the Bitcoin app via Ledger Live
Add a Bitcoin account
You can repeat this process for multiple cryptocurrencies.
Security Tips for Ledger Users
Security doesn’t stop after setup. Here are essential tips:
Access Ledger only through the official website.
Ledger regularly releases security updates.
Ledger will never:
Ask for your recovery phrase
Ask you to enter seed words online
Store your recovery phrase:
In a fireproof safe
In multiple secure locations
On a metal backup plate for durability
Restoring a Ledger Device
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged:
Get a new Ledger device
Choose “Restore from recovery phrase”
Enter your 24-word phrase
Your accounts and funds will be restored automatically.
This is why protecting your recovery phrase is essential.
Common Issues During Setup Device Not Recognized
Try another USB cable
Use a different USB port
Restart your computer
Ledger Live Not Installing
Check system compatibility
Disable antivirus temporarily (if blocking installation)
Download again from official website
Incorrect PIN Entered Multiple Times
If you enter the wrong PIN several times, the device resets. You will need your recovery phrase to restore access.
Why Hardware Wallets Are Safer Than Software Wallets
Unlike software wallets, Ledger hardware wallets:
Store private keys offline
Protect against malware
Require physical confirmation for transactions
Keep crypto isolated from internet threats
This makes them ideal for long-term storage and high-value holdings.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Ledger devices support thousands of cryptocurrencies including:
Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
Litecoin (LTC)
XRP
Solana (SOL)
Polygon (MATIC)
New assets are regularly added through Ledger Live updates.
Final Thoughts
Setting up your Ledger wallet through Ledger.com/Start is a straightforward but critical process. By carefully following each step — especially securing your 24-word recovery phrase — you ensure maximum protection for your crypto investments.
Ledger devices combine offline security with user-friendly management through Ledger Live, making them one of the most trusted solutions in the crypto space.
Remember:
Your recovery phrase = Your crypto If you protect it properly, your assets remain safe.
Take your time during setup, double-check everything, and never compromise on security. Once completed, you’ll have full control over your digital assets with confidence and peace of mind.