Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started

Ledger.com/start: A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet

Introduction

So, you've finally decided to take your crypto security seriously. Great move! Whether you're new to the world of cryptocurrencies or just switching from a hot wallet to something more secure, Ledger is one of the most trusted names out there.

But before you can start storing your Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other coins safely, you need to visit Ledger.com/start—your one-stop setup hub.

Let’s walk through the whole process, step-by-step, like we’re sitting next to each other at your desk.

What is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official Ledger setup portal. It’s where you:

Download Ledger Live (the companion app)

Follow secure device setup

Access educational materials

Ensure you're on the legit site (and not some sneaky phishing clone)

Think of it as the "start here" button for your new crypto security journey.

Benefits of Using Ledger Wallets

Let’s be real—crypto hacks are everywhere. From fake emails to dodgy websites, your funds are always at risk when stored online.

Ledger wallets fix that. Here’s why they’re awesome:

Cold Storage: Your private keys are stored offline.

Unhackable Hardware: Even if your PC has malware, your Ledger stays safe.

User-Friendly Design: Setup is guided, simple, and beginner-friendly.

Types of Ledger Wallets

There are two main models to choose from:

Ledger Nano S Plus

More affordable

Great for beginners

No Bluetooth

Ledger Nano X

Premium version

Bluetooth enabled

Larger storage capacity for apps

Which one should you pick? If you’re just starting out, Nano S Plus is more than enough. If you're managing multiple cryptos or need mobile Bluetooth access, go for the Nano X.

Preparing for Your Setup

Before diving into Ledger.com/start, make sure you have:

Your Ledger device in hand

A computer or smartphone

A pen and paper (NOT your phone!) to write down your recovery phrase

A quiet space where you won’t be interrupted

Bonus tip: Never take a photo of your recovery phrase. Ever. Not even once.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Ledger.com/start

Step 1 – Unboxing Your Ledger Device

Inside the box, you should find:

Ledger device

USB cable

Recovery sheets

Instructions

If anything looks tampered with—STOP. Contact Ledger support.

Step 2 – Navigating to Ledger.com/start

Open your browser and type: https://www.ledger.com/start

Double-check the URL. Look for the padlock icon and make sure you're not on a fake phishing site.

Step 3 – Downloading Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the app that lets you:

Install wallet apps

View balances

Send/receive crypto

Stake coins

Download the version that matches your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Never download it from third-party sites.

Step 4 – Initializing the Device

Follow the on-screen instructions:

Choose "Set up as new device"

Create a secure PIN (memorize it or write it somewhere private)

Step 5 – Writing Down Your Recovery Phrase

You’ll be shown 24 words—your recovery phrase.

Write. It. Down. In. Order.

Use the provided recovery sheet or your own. If you lose this, you lose access to your crypto. Period.

Step 6 – Verifying Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger will ask you to confirm specific words from your phrase to ensure you wrote it correctly.

This is not optional. It's your safety net.

Step 7 – Installing Apps via Ledger Live

Each crypto you want to manage requires a separate app on your Ledger. For example:

Bitcoin app

Ethereum app

Solana app

Use the “Manager” tab in Ledger Live to install and remove apps.

Step 8 – Receiving and Sending Crypto Safely

To receive:

Select your crypto account in Ledger Live

Click "Receive"

Confirm the address on your device

To send:

Paste the recipient’s address

Confirm transaction details on your device

Done!

Pro tip: Always verify addresses on the physical device, not just your screen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Going to a fake site: Only use Ledger.com/start

Taking photos of your recovery phrase

Not updating firmware: Old firmware can be a security risk

Keeping Your Ledger Wallet Secure

Keep your device offline when not in use

Enable passphrase option for added security

Store your recovery phrase in a fireproof, waterproof location

Never share your 24 words—not even with Ledger support

Troubleshooting Setup Issues

Device not recognized?

Try a different USB cable

Restart your computer

Ledger Live crashes?

Reinstall from Ledger.com/start

Update your operating system

Lost recovery phrase?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to recover your wallet. This is why backing it up properly is critical.

Advanced Features of Ledger Live

Track your portfolio in real-time

Stake crypto (like ETH, DOT, or ADA)

Buy, sell, or swap directly in the app

It’s more than just a wallet—it’s a full crypto management system.

Why Ledger is Trusted in the Crypto Space

Over 6 million devices sold

Used in 200+ countries

Backed by industry audits and open-source technology

Endorsed by influencers and professionals alike

Conclusion

Setting up your Ledger wallet through Ledger.com/start is one of the smartest things you can do for your crypto security. Yes, it takes a bit of time. But it’s worth every second.