Ledger.com/Start | Getting® started

Ledger Start® | Get Started with Your Ledger® Hardware Wallet

In the rapidly evolving world of digital assets, security has become more important than ever. Whether you hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, or a diverse portfolio of tokens, safeguarding your private keys is essential. Ledger Start® provides an intuitive, secure gateway to managing your Ledger® hardware wallet—from setup to daily use. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with your Ledger device and confidently manage your crypto assets.

What Is Ledger Start®?

Ledger Start® is your streamlined entry point to setting up and pairing your Ledger hardware wallet with the Ledger Live application. Designed with beginners and advanced users in mind, Ledger Start® simplifies onboarding by guiding you through device initialization, security steps, app installation, and asset management.
Ledger’s hardware wallets—such as the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X—securely store private keys offline, protecting your assets even if your computer or phone becomes compromised.

Ledger Start® essentially bridges physical device security with the digital interface of Ledger Live, ensuring a smooth and safe onboarding experience.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

Cryptocurrency ownership relies on one crucial concept: control over your private keys. If your private keys are stored on an exchange or online wallet, your assets are vulnerable to hacks, shutdowns, or third-party risks. Ledger devices solve this problem by storing private keys in a secure element chip, completely isolated from the internet.

Key Benefits:

1. Maximum Security

Ledger wallets never expose your private keys to the outside world. Transactions are verified internally on the device and must be physically confirmed by pressing a button.

2. Multi-Asset Support

You can manage more than 5,500 cryptocurrencies and tokens, including:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Ripple (XRP)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Stablecoins
  • ERC-20 tokens
  • NFTs

3. Protection From Phishing and Malware

Even if your computer has malware, the secure element chip in the Ledger wallet prevents unauthorized access.

4. Seamless Integration With Ledger Live

Ledger Live acts as an all-in-one management platform, enabling you to:

  • Buy, sell, and swap tokens
  • Stake supported coins for passive rewards
  • Track your entire portfolio
  • Manage NFT collections

Getting Started With Ledger Start®

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you activate and set up your Ledger device securely.

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect Your Ledger Device

Before beginning setup, check that your hardware wallet is sealed and free from tampering. Ledger devices come in tamper-evident packaging. Make sure the box includes:

  • Ledger hardware wallet
  • USB cable
  • Recovery phrase sheets
  • Quick start guide
  • Keychain accessories (varies by model)

If anything looks suspicious, contact Ledger Support before proceeding.

Step 2: Access Ledger Start®

Go to the official Ledger onboarding portal:

👉 Visit: https://ledger.com/start
(Always verify URLs carefully to avoid phishing websites.)

Here, Ledger Start® will guide you through choosing your device and beginning the setup process.

Step 3: Initialize Your Device

You will be prompted to set up as:

  • New Device, or
  • Restore Existing Wallet (if you already have a recovery phrase)

Follow these steps:

Create a PIN Code

Your device will ask you to set a PIN (4–8 digits).
This PIN protects access to your wallet.

Generate Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

This phrase is the only backup to your wallet. Write it down on the provided recovery sheets and store it offline in a secure location.

⚠️ Never:

  • Take a photo of the recovery phrase
  • Store it in a cloud service
  • Share it with anyone
  • Enter it into any website

Your recovery phrase is the master key to all your crypto assets.

Step 4: Download and Install Ledger Live

Once your device is initialized, download Ledger Live for desktop or mobile.

Available on:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • iOS
  • Android

Ledger Live allows you to connect your device, install apps for each cryptocurrency, and manage transactions.

Step 5: Connect Device + Install Crypto Apps

Each cryptocurrency requires its own app installed on your Ledger device.
For example:

  • Bitcoin App
  • Ethereum App
  • Solana App

Within Ledger Live:

  1. Open My Ledger
  2. Connect your device
  3. Install the relevant apps

Your device may require confirmations during installation.

Step 6: Add Accounts to Ledger Live

To view and manage your assets:

  1. Go to Accounts
  2. Select Add Account
  3. Choose the crypto you want to manage
  4. Follow on-screen instructions

Ledger Live will generate wallet addresses using the private keys stored inside your hardware device.

Step 7: Receive Crypto Into Your Wallet

To receive funds:

  1. Select the account
  2. Click Receive
  3. Connect and unlock your Ledger
  4. Confirm the displayed address on your device screen
  5. Share the address with the sender

Always verify the address on your Ledger’s screen—the device display cannot be tampered with.

Step 8: Send, Stake, or Manage Assets

With your Ledger and Ledger Live, you can:

  • Send crypto safely
  • Swap supported tokens
  • Stake coins (e.g., ETH, DOT, SOL)
  • Claim rewards
  • View real-time portfolio performance
  • Manage NFTs on supported chains

All outbound transactions require physical confirmation on the hardware wallet, ensuring total control and security.

Tips for Staying Secure With Ledger

  • Bookmark ledger.com and only use official URLs
  • Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Beware of fake “Ledger Support” agents
  • Only buy Ledger devices from the official store
  • Regularly update firmware via Ledger Live
  • Store your recovery phrase in multiple offline locations

Is Ledger Start® Safe?

Yes. Ledger Start® is part of the official Ledger onboarding workflow and directs you exclusively to secure Ledger tools and documentation. It is designed to prevent user errors, reduce phishing risks, and ensure you initialize your device correctly.

Conclusion

Ledger Start® makes it easier than ever to begin your crypto security journey. Combined with a Ledger hardware wallet and the Ledger Live app, you gain complete control of your private keys, strong offline protection, and an intuitive interface to manage all your digital assets. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned investor, Ledger’s ecosystem provides peace of mind and world-class security at every step.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk, and you should conduct your own research or consult a professional advisor before making financial decisions. Always use official Ledger websites and tools, and never share your recovery phrase with anyone.