Ledger Start Guide
Everything You Need to Know About Ledger.com/start
Ledger.com/start is your official starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from unboxing to securing your first crypto assets.
What is Ledger.com/start?
Official Download Portal
Ledger.com/start is the official webpage where you download Ledger Live, the companion app for your Ledger hardware wallet. It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Setup Hub
This is where your security journey begins. The page guides you through downloading the software, initializing your device, and creating your recovery phrase.
Educational Resource
Beyond just downloads, it provides links to tutorials, security best practices, and resources to help you understand how hardware wallets protect your crypto.
Explore Our Comprehensive Guides
Complete Setup Guide
Step-by-step tutorial covering unboxing, device initialization, PIN creation, recovery phrase backup, and installing your first apps.
Read the full guide →Hardware Wallet Myths
Debunking common misconceptions about hardware wallets, security concerns, and what you really need to know about protecting your assets.
Discover the truth →Recommended Settings
Optimal configuration settings for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major cryptocurrencies. Expert recommendations for different use cases.
View settings →Security Best Practices
Learn essential security tips: never share your recovery phrase, verify device authenticity, use strong PINs, and protect yourself from phishing attacks.
- ✓ Always verify URLs before entering credentials
- ✓ Use official Ledger channels only
- ✓ Keep firmware updated
- ✓ Store recovery phrase offline
What to Expect During Device Setup
Step 1: Unboxing and Initial Check+
When you receive your Ledger device, the first step is to verify the package integrity. Your box should arrive sealed with a Ledger tamper-proof seal.
- Check that the box has not been opened or tampered with
- Verify you received: Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheet(s), and instruction booklet
- Do NOT use the device if it came with a pre-filled recovery phrase
- Never trust a device that arrives with PIN already set
Expert Insight: Ledger devices do not come with pre-installed recovery phrases. If yours does, it's compromised. Contact Ledger support immediately.
Step 2: Downloading Ledger Live+
Visit Ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live for your operating system. This is the only official source.
- Desktop: Available for Windows (10+), macOS (10.14+), and Linux (Ubuntu 20.04+)
- Mobile: iOS 13+ and Android 8+ supported
- File size is typically 100-200MB depending on your platform
- Always verify the URL shows "ledger.com" before downloading
Warning: Never download Ledger Live from third-party websites or app stores other than official Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Fake apps can steal your crypto.
Step 3: Device Initialization+
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. You'll see options to either set up as a new device or restore from a recovery phrase.
- Choose "Set up as new device" for first-time setup
- Select "Restore from recovery phrase" only if you're recovering a previous wallet
- The device will display welcome messages and instructions
- Use the device buttons to navigate: left/right to select, both to confirm
Pro Tip: The device buttons might feel stiff at first. This is normal. Press firmly and directly on the center of each button.
Step 4: Creating Your PIN Code+
Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access. Choose carefully.
- PIN must be 4-8 digits long
- Avoid obvious combinations like 1234, 0000, or your birth year
- After 3 incorrect attempts, your device resets (your recovery phrase will still work)
- You'll need to enter your PIN twice to confirm
Expert Insight: Use a random 8-digit PIN for maximum security. Write it down separately from your recovery phrase, or memorize it.
Step 5: Writing Down Your Recovery Phrase+
This is the MOST CRITICAL step. Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to all your crypto.
- The device will display 24 words, one at a time
- Write each word on the recovery sheet in the exact order shown
- Use only the provided recovery sheets or quality paper
- NEVER take a photo, screenshot, or store digitally
- NEVER share your recovery phrase with anyone, including Ledger support
- Store in a secure location, separate from your device
Critical Warning: Anyone with your recovery phrase has complete access to all your funds. There is NO customer support that can help if your phrase is compromised or lost.
Best Practice: Consider using a Cryptosteel capsule or similar metal backup solution to protect your recovery phrase from fire and water damage.
Step 6: Recovery Phrase Verification+
After writing down your recovery phrase, the device will quiz you to confirm you wrote it correctly.
- The device will ask for specific words (e.g., "Enter word #7")
- Navigate through the word list using device buttons
- Select the correct word from your recovery sheet
- You'll typically verify 3-4 random words
Pro Tip: If you make a mistake during verification, don't panic. You can restart the process. Double-check your recovery sheet for accuracy.
Step 7: Installing Apps and Adding Accounts+
Once setup is complete, use Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency apps and create accounts.
- Open Ledger Live and connect your device
- Go to Manager section to install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
- Each cryptocurrency needs its own app on the device
- Create accounts for each crypto you want to manage
- Your device has limited storage (~10-20 apps depending on model)
- You can uninstall/reinstall apps without losing funds
Expert Insight: Install only the apps you need. You can always add more later. Popular choices to start: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and any specific coins you plan to store.
Ready to Secure Your Crypto?
Follow our comprehensive guides to set up your Ledger hardware wallet correctly and protect your digital assets.