What is Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/Start is the official getting-started portal for Ledger hardware wallets. It guides you to download Ledger Live (the companion app), initialize your device, and verify that you’re using genuine Ledger software and firmware. Think of it as the “front door” to a secure crypto setup: you type it in your browser (never click random ads), download the app, and follow the on-screen instructions to move from unboxing to transacting.

Important: Always type addresses like ledger.com/start directly into your browser. Avoid look-alike URLs and sponsored links. If anything feels off, stop and re-type the address.

Before you begin: Safety & sanity checks

Unboxing checklist

  • Packaging is intact; device model matches your order.
  • No pre-printed or typed recovery phrase included (it should be blank cards).
  • USB cable is undamaged; accessories look new.
  • Device powers on and shows the welcome screen.

Security checklist

  • Use a trusted computer (updated OS, reputable antivirus, no unknown browser extensions).
  • Secure, private internet connection (avoid public Wi-Fi for setup).
  • Pen & paper ready for your 24-word recovery phrase (no cameras/screenshots).
  • A quiet space so you won’t be rushed through critical steps.

If someone or some website offers to “back up” your phrase for you, walk away. Your recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. Anyone with it can move your crypto. You never share it—not with support, not with friends, not with anyone.

Pro tip: If you ordered second-hand, always reset the device before use and initialize it as new. Never use a phrase generated by someone else.

Step 1: Install Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start

  1. Open your browser and type ledger.com/start.
  2. Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS/Android for companion mobile).
  3. Download Ledger Live and verify your download if prompted.
  4. Install and launch Ledger Live, then choose Get started.

Why Ledger Live matters

Ledger Live is your control center. It lets you run the Genuine Check, install coin apps on your device, add accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many more), view balances, send/receive transactions, stake certain assets, and connect to Web3 dApps via supported integrations—while keeping your private keys secured on the hardware device.

Step 2: Initialize & secure your Ledger device

Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-screen prompts. The exact wording may vary by model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax), but the flow is similar:

  1. Create a PIN. Choose a strong, memorable PIN (usually 4–8 digits). Confirm it on the device.
  2. Generate your 24-word recovery phrase. Write the words down in order on the provided recovery sheets. Double-check spelling carefully.
  3. Confirm words on device. The device will ask you to verify selected words to ensure you copied them correctly.
  4. Store the phrase securely. Keep it offline in a safe place. Consider a metal backup for fire/water resistance.

Never: take photos/screenshots of your phrase, store it in cloud notes, email it to yourself, or type it into any website or app. The phrase must remain offline.

What if you lose your device?

Your funds are on the blockchain, controlled by your keys. If the device is lost or damaged, you can restore access on a new Ledger (or compatible wallet) using your 24-word phrase—if you stored it safely.

Firmware updates

During setup, Ledger Live may prompt a firmware update. Read the steps carefully, keep the device connected, and never interrupt updates. After updating, your accounts and assets remain intact—they’re derived from your recovery phrase.

Step 3: Pair your device with Ledger Live

Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth for supported models and mobile). In Ledger Live:

  1. Choose your device model.
  2. Run the Genuine Check to verify authenticity.
  3. Follow on-screen prompts to complete pairing.
If Ledger Live ever asks for your recovery phrase, close the app—this is a red flag. The legitimate app only asks you to confirm actions on the device screen, never to type your phrase into your computer or phone.

Step 4: Install coin apps & add accounts

In Ledger Live, go to the My Ledger or Manager section and install coin apps on the device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). Each network may require its own app. After installing, Add accounts so Ledger Live can display balances and addresses.

Storage tips

  • Install only the coin apps you use (you can uninstall later without losing funds).
  • Keep a tidy account list (label accounts for clarity, e.g., “Long-term ETH”).
  • Backup your portfolio export if you track tax lots elsewhere.

Address formats

Some networks have multiple address formats or derivation paths. Use the defaults unless you know you need a specific path (e.g., legacy vs. SegWit for BTC). When in doubt, receive a small test transaction first.

Step 5: Receive & send your first crypto (test first!)

Receiving

  1. Open Ledger Live » Accounts » choose an account » Receive.
  2. Open the corresponding app on your device when prompted.
  3. Verify the address on your device screen. Make sure every character matches.
  4. Copy the address and send a small test amount from your exchange or other wallet.

Sending

  1. Go to Send in Ledger Live and paste the recipient’s address.
  2. Choose a sensible network fee (avoid “zero” fee scams; low fees may take longer).
  3. Confirm the transaction on your device (amount, address, fees).
  4. Wait for confirmations. Bookmark a reputable block explorer if you like to track progress.

Network gotcha: Always match the network. Don’t send ETH on Ethereum to a BTC address, or USDT on TRON to an ERC-20 address. When withdrawing from an exchange, select the correct chain and verify carefully on your device.

Step 6: Explore staking, DeFi & NFTs—safely

Staking through Ledger Live

For supported assets, you can stake directly in Ledger Live or via integrated partners. Read the terms, understand lock-ups or unbonding periods, and stake small amounts first to learn the flow.

Web3 dApps & NFTs

You can connect your Ledger to certain dApps using Ledger Live support or wallet connectors. Verify permissions and smart contract actions on your device screen before approving. For NFTs, confirm the collection, contract, and marketplace authenticity to avoid phishing.

Principle of least privilege: Approve only what’s necessary. Revoke outdated token allowances periodically using reputable tools.

Best practices for long-term security

Recovery resilience

  • Store the 24-word phrase in at least one secure, offline location.
  • Consider a metal backup for disaster resilience.
  • Never split the phrase haphazardly unless you understand the trade-offs.

Operational hygiene

  • Keep your OS and Ledger Live updated.
  • Use unique passwords and a reputable password manager.
  • Enable 2FA on your exchange accounts and email.

Transaction safety

  • Verify addresses on the device screen before receiving/sending.
  • Do test transactions for new addresses or chains.
  • Bookmark official pages; beware of look-alike sites and fake support.

Simple backup strategy (example)

Item Where to store Who knows Rotation
24-word phrase Locked home safe or bank box You (and 1 trusted person if necessary) Verify legibility yearly
Device PIN Memorized (optional sealed envelope) You only Change if exposed
Ledger Live password Password manager You only Rotate every 6–12 months

Troubleshooting & practical fixes

Device not detected by Ledger Live

  • Try a different USB port or cable; avoid hubs during setup.
  • Unlock the device and open the correct coin app when prompted.
  • Update Ledger Live to the latest version and restart both app and computer.
  • Check that other wallet software isn’t running (it may “grab” the device connection).
  • On mobile (Bluetooth-enabled models), ensure Bluetooth is enabled and paired inside Ledger Live.

Firmware update stuck?

  • Do not disconnect mid-update unless instructed. Wait a few minutes.
  • If frozen, close Ledger Live, reconnect the device, and relaunch the update flow.
  • As a last resort, enter bootloader mode (per device instructions) and retry.

Wrong network or token not showing

  • Confirm you installed the correct coin app and added the correct account type.
  • For tokens (e.g., ERC-20 on Ethereum), ensure Ledger Live supports the token—or use a supported dApp while keeping signing on the device.
  • If you sent to the right chain but the token is missing from the UI, add the token contract in a compatible interface and verify safely.

Lost or compromised PIN

  • If you still have access, change the PIN from device settings.
  • If you can’t unlock the device, reset it and restore from your 24-word recovery phrase.
  • If you suspect your phrase is compromised, immediately move funds to a new wallet initialized with a brand-new phrase.
Is Ledger.com/Start the only safe way to download Ledger Live?

It’s the simplest and most reliable entry point. You can also navigate the official site manually, but avoid third-party download sites and search-ad imposters.

Can I import an existing 24-word phrase?

Yes. During setup, choose “Restore from recovery phrase.” Make sure the phrase originated from a trusted, offline device and never from a web form or screenshot.

Do I lose my crypto if I uninstall a coin app?

No. Your assets stay on-chain. The app only enables the device to sign transactions for that network. Reinstall the app anytime to access that network again.

What if Ledger Live doesn’t support my token?

You can often use a compatible third-party wallet or dApp, connecting your Ledger to sign transactions securely. Always verify contract addresses and permissions.

Quick glossary

Recovery phrase

A sequence of 24 words that can regenerate all your private keys. Treat it as the ultimate master key—offline, secret, and secure.

Ledger Live

The official companion app used to manage your hardware wallet, install coin apps, add accounts, and view/send assets.

Genuine Check

A security step in Ledger Live that ensures your device runs legitimate firmware and communicates with official services.

Derivation path

The mathematical “map” used to derive addresses and keys from your recovery phrase for each network and account type.

Staking

Locking tokens to help secure a network and earn rewards. Each chain has different rules for bonding and payouts.

Token approvals

Permissions you grant to smart contracts to move tokens on your behalf. Revoke old approvals to reduce risk.

Wrap-up: Your secure path via Ledger.com/Start

If you follow the steps above—installing Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start, initializing your device correctly, securing the 24-word recovery phrase offline, and verifying everything on your device screen—you’ll have a robust foundation for long-term crypto security. Take your time, do small tests, and keep learning. A little caution goes a long way.

Final reminder: No legitimate support agent will ever ask for your recovery phrase. If someone does, it’s a scam.

Ready to begin? Type ledger.com/start in your browser to get the official installer and follow along with this guide as you go.