Introduction

Welcome to Ledger.com/start – your official entry point to set up a Ledger hardware wallet securely. Ledger provides industry-leading hardware security combined with the intuitive Ledger Live application, enabling you to manage cryptocurrency assets safely. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crypto enthusiast, Ledger.com/start guides you step-by-step for optimal wallet security.

Why Use Ledger.com/start?

Starting at the official Ledger guide ensures your wallet setup follows the safest path, minimizing exposure to phishing or fake software. Ledger.com/start walks you through proper device initialization, PIN creation, recovery phrase backup, firmware updates, and connecting with the Ledger Live app to manage cryptocurrencies securely.

Ledger Wallet Features

• Advanced offline protection against hacking or malware attacks
• Supports thousands of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins
• Ledger Live integration for portfolio tracking and transaction management
• Physical verification of all transactions on the device
• Regular firmware updates to enhance device functionality and security
• Bluetooth connectivity for Ledger Nano X for cable-free mobile management

Step 1 — Unboxing Your Ledger Device

Upon receiving your Ledger wallet, inspect the packaging carefully. The tamper-evident seal must be intact, and the box should contain:

• The Ledger device itself
• USB cable for connecting to your computer or mobile adapter
• Recovery phrase card for securely recording your seed
• User guide documentation

Never use a device with broken seals. Authenticity ensures your funds remain protected.

Step 2 — Preparing Your Environment

Set up in a secure location with a trusted computer. Update your operating system, close untrusted apps, and avoid public Wi-Fi. A clean environment prevents accidental leaks of your recovery phrase or PIN.

Step 3 — Installing Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start. Verify your download to ensure authenticity. Ledger Live enables wallet initialization, account management, and transaction monitoring.

Step 4 — Initializing Your Ledger Device

1. Connect the Ledger device to your computer or mobile device.
2. Follow Ledger Live to choose “Create a new wallet” or “Restore from recovery phrase.”
3. Set a secure PIN directly on the device.
4. Write down your recovery phrase on the card provided and store offline.
5. Confirm your recovery phrase on the device.

Step 5 — Firmware Updates

Ledger devices may require firmware updates. Only perform updates on a trusted device. Follow on-device prompts carefully to ensure safe updates. Never interrupt the process to avoid device malfunction.

Step 6 — Adding Accounts

Ledger Live allows adding multiple cryptocurrency accounts. Start by adding a test account, perform a small transaction, and verify that addresses match on-device. This ensures smooth, secure management.

Security Best Practices

• Keep recovery phrase in secure, offline storage
• Use a strong, unique PIN
• Confirm all transaction details on the Ledger device
• Regularly update device firmware and Ledger Live software
• Consider a metal backup for extreme durability against damage

Advanced Security

Ledger devices support optional passphrases for hidden wallets and can be part of multisignature setups for institutional security. Only use advanced features after understanding the operational requirements.

Troubleshooting

If Ledger Live does not detect your device, check the USB connection, try another port, unlock the device, or restart the software. On Linux, verify udev rules. For firmware updates that fail, retry on a secure host without interruptions.

Privacy Considerations

Ledger Live connects to public nodes to fetch balances. For privacy, consider using a VPN, Tor, or running your own node. Avoid address reuse to minimize metadata exposure.