Ledger.com/Start Guide

Your Complete Step-by-Step Setup Manual for Ledger Devices

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to Ledger.com/Start
  2. What You Need Before Starting
  3. Supported Devices and Operating Systems
  4. Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet
  5. Installing Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start
  6. Initializing Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
  7. Creating a PIN Code
  8. Backing Up Your Recovery Phrase
  9. Verifying Device Authenticity
  10. Connecting Ledger Wallet to Ledger Live
  11. Installing Apps on Ledger Device
  12. Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts
  13. Sending and Receiving Crypto
  14. Security Best Practices
  15. Firmware Updates via Ledger.com/Start
  16. Troubleshooting Common Issues
  17. FAQs About Ledger.com/Start
  18. Tips for Safe Crypto Management
  19. Support and Resources
  20. Final Thoughts

1. Introduction to Ledger.com/Start

Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding page for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X). It serves as a secure gateway to download Ledger Live, verify your device, and walk through the initialization process. The page is designed to ensure new users are guided safely and correctly through the critical first steps.

2. What You Need Before Starting

Before visiting Ledger.com/Start, ensure you have the following:

  • A genuine Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X)
  • A computer or smartphone (Windows/macOS/Linux or Android/iOS)
  • A secure internet connection
  • Pen and paper for writing down your recovery phrase
  • Time and patience for secure setup

3. Supported Devices and Operating Systems

Ledger Live (which you’ll download via Ledger.com/Start) supports:

  • Windows 10/11
  • macOS 10.14+
  • Linux (Ubuntu-based)
  • Android 8.1+
  • iOS (Nano X only, via Bluetooth)
⚠️ Note: Ledger Nano S doesn’t support mobile apps; use with desktop only.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet

  1. Go to Ledger.com/Start.
  2. Select your Ledger device model.
  3. Click "Get Started" to begin guided setup.
  4. Follow on-screen instructions to initialize your device.
  5. Download Ledger Live, the companion app.

5. Installing Ledger Live from Ledger.com/Start

Ledger Live is the secure app used to manage crypto assets on your Ledger. Here’s how to install it:

On Desktop

  • Click “Download Ledger Live” at Ledger.com/Start.
  • Choose your OS: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  • Install and launch the application.
  • Follow the installation wizard.

On Mobile

  • Use the QR code shown on the site or go directly to Google Play or Apple App Store.
  • Download Ledger Live Mobile.
  • Connect via Bluetooth (Nano X only).
✅ Ensure you download from official sources only to avoid scams.

6. Initializing Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

After launching Ledger Live:

  1. Choose "Set up a new device".
  2. Select your hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano S).
  3. Follow instructions shown on both the Ledger device screen and Ledger Live.
Do NOT use any pre-configured or pre-owned Ledger. If the recovery phrase is already written down, stop and return it immediately.

7. Creating a PIN Code

A 4–8 digit PIN code protects your Ledger wallet. You’ll enter this each time you use your device.

Steps:

  • Rotate the buttons to set digits.
  • Press both buttons to confirm.
  • Re-enter the PIN to confirm.
🔐 Never share your PIN with anyone.

8. Backing Up Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger provides a 24-word recovery phrase—this is your only backup if your device is lost or damaged.

Tips:

  • Write the phrase in order on the Recovery Sheet.
  • Store in multiple secure places, offline.
  • Never take photos or store digitally.
  • If someone gets access, they can steal your crypto.
⚠️ Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

9. Verifying Device Authenticity

Once initialized:

  1. Open Ledger Live.
  2. Connect your device via USB or Bluetooth.
  3. Navigate to Manager.
  4. Ledger Live will check if your device is genuine.
If your device fails the authenticity check, contact Ledger Support immediately.

10. Connecting Ledger Wallet to Ledger Live

  1. Plug in the device.
  2. Open Ledger Live and enter your password.
  3. Allow Ledger Manager access from your device.
  4. Start managing your crypto assets.
💡 Nano X users can also connect via Bluetooth on mobile.

11. Installing Apps on Ledger Device

Ledger devices support various blockchains via apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.

How to Install:

  1. Go to Ledger Live → Manager.
  2. Search for a crypto (e.g., "Bitcoin").
  3. Click Install.
  4. Wait for installation on device.
Space is limited on Nano S – install only the coins you use.

12. Adding Cryptocurrency Accounts

To send/receive crypto, you need to add accounts in Ledger Live:

  1. Go to Accounts → Add Account.
  2. Choose the crypto asset.
  3. Connect your device.
  4. Confirm on the device.
  5. Account appears in Ledger Live.

13. Sending and Receiving Crypto

Receiving:

  • Click "Receive" in Ledger Live.
  • Choose the crypto account.
  • Verify the address on device.
  • Share address to receive funds.

Sending:

  • Click "Send" in Ledger Live.
  • Enter recipient address and amount.
  • Confirm on Ledger device.
✅ Always verify address on your device before confirming.

14. Security Best Practices

  • Always use Ledger Live downloaded from Ledger.com/Start.
  • Enable Ledger Live password lock.
  • Regularly update device firmware and Ledger Live.
  • Keep your Recovery Phrase offline and private.
  • Never use your Ledger on untrusted computers.

15. Firmware Updates via Ledger.com/Start

Firmware updates improve device security and compatibility.

To Update:

  1. Go to Manager in Ledger Live.
  2. If update is available, you’ll see a notification.
  3. Follow instructions (device must be plugged in).
  4. Do not disconnect during update.
⚠️ Confirm that your Recovery Phrase is backed up before updating.

16. Troubleshooting Common Issues

ProblemSolutionDevice not recognizedTry another USB cable/portBluetooth not connecting (Nano X)Reboot device and phone, re-pairPIN blockedReset device, restore with Recovery PhraseLedger Live crashesReinstall or update Ledger LiveMissing cryptoCheck correct network and address


17. FAQs About Ledger.com/Start

Q1. Is Ledger.com/Start safe?
Yes. It’s the official Ledger site to begin setup.

Q2. Can I set up without internet?
Partially. Device setup is offline, but Ledger Live requires internet.

Q3. Can I use my Ledger without Ledger Live?
Yes, you can use it with third-party wallets like MetaMask or Electrum, but Ledger Live is recommended.

Q4. What if I lose my Ledger?
Use your 24-word Recovery Phrase to restore access on a new Ledger.

18. Tips for Safe Crypto Management

  • Use a fireproof safe for recovery phrase storage.
  • Avoid phishing emails—Ledger never contacts you first.
  • Enable 2FA where possible on connected platforms.
  • Use official Ledger accessories for charging/connectivity.

19. Support and Resources

  • Help Center: support.ledger.com
  • Community: Reddit, Twitter, Discord
  • Tutorials & Videos: YouTube @Ledger
  • Email Support: Contact via Ledger Live or website
✅ Only rely on official sources for help.

20. Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/Start is the most important first step in your crypto security journey. By properly setting up your Ledger device and using Ledger Live, you gain full control over your digital assets—securely, offline, and independently.