What is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page provided by Ledger, the leading manufacturer of hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and Ledger Stax. It’s designed to guide you through the essential steps to securely set up, initialize, and use your device to manage your crypto assets. Using only the official Ledger site is critical to protect yourself from phishing scams or counterfeit devices.
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before you visit ledger.com/start, make sure you have:
- Your unopened Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax).
- A computer or smartphone with an internet connection.
- A pen and your Recovery Sheet (comes in the box).
Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/start
Open your browser and type ledger.com/start. Select your specific device model. The website will direct you to the right setup instructions tailored to your device.
Step 2: Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion app for your Ledger device. Download it directly from ledger.com/start to ensure you’re using the authentic version. Ledger Live lets you:
- Initialize your device
- Install apps for different cryptocurrencies
- Manage your accounts and check your balance
- Send and receive crypto securely
Follow the prompts to install Ledger Live on your computer or smartphone.
Step 3: Set Up Your Device
Connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone using the provided USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X only). Turn it on and follow the instructions on the device screen.
You’ll be prompted to:
- Set up as new device: If it’s your first time.
- Choose a PIN code: Pick a secure 4-8 digit PIN to protect access.
- Write down your Recovery Phrase: The device will display a 24-word Recovery Phrase. This phrase is your master key. Write it on the Recovery Sheet and store it offline in a safe place. Never take a digital photo or share it with anyone.
Step 4: Verify Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger will ask you to confirm your 24 words to make sure you wrote them down correctly. This step is crucial: losing your Recovery Phrase means losing access to your crypto if your device is lost or damaged.
Step 5: Pair with Ledger Live
Once your device is initialized, open Ledger Live. Use it to:
- Install apps for each crypto you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
- Create accounts for each currency.
- Generate receive addresses and check balances.
Ledger Live never stores your private keys — those remain safely in your hardware wallet.
Step 6: Stay Safe
Ledger will never ask for your 24-word Recovery Phrase. Be cautious of phishing emails or fake websites. Always double-check you’re using ledger.com and not a lookalike.
Final Tips
- Regularly update your Ledger device’s firmware via Ledger Live.
- Store your Recovery Sheet in a secure, fireproof place.
- Consider using a backup device for added safety.