Ledger.com / Start — Secure Your Ledger

What Is Ledger.com / Start?

Ledger.com / Start is the official onboarding portal provided by Ledger. It acts as your trusted entry point to set up your Ledger hardware wallet securely. Through this page, you can download the genuine Ledger Live application, follow step-by-step instructions for device initialization, install cryptocurrency apps, and get ongoing guidance on security best practices.

In the world of cryptocurrency, security and authenticity are paramount. Many phishing sites masquerade as wallet setup tools, trying to trick users into revealing their recovery phrases or downloading malicious software. Starting your setup via ledger.com/start ensures you're getting authentic downloads and instructions directly from Ledger. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide

Below is a recommended workflow when starting with your Ledger device. Use these steps as your roadmap to a safe setup:

Unbox & Inspect Device
Check that your Ledger device (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or others) comes in tamper‑evident sealed packaging. Do not proceed if the packaging appears opened or altered. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Visit ledger.com/start
Type the address manually or use a bookmark. Always verify HTTPS and the proper domain to avoid phishing pages. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Download Ledger Live
From the Start page, choose the correct version (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and download the installer. Do **not** download from third‑party links. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Install & Launch Ledger Live
Install the app, then open it. You may be prompted to connect your hardware device. Use the official USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Set Up Your Device
Choose “Set up as new device” (or “Restore” if you already have a recovery phrase). Create a secure PIN on your device. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Generate & Record Recovery Phrase
Ledger will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase. Write it down on the recovery sheet (offline). Do **not** save it digitally. Confirm it on the device when requested. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Verify Device Authenticity
Ledger Live will perform an authenticity check to ensure the hardware is genuine and not tampered with. If this fails, stop setup. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Install Apps & Add Accounts
In Ledger Live’s Manager, install apps for the cryptocurrencies you wish to use (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts to begin tracking balances. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Send / Receive / Use Crypto
After setup, you can securely send, receive, swap, or stake assets. All transaction authorizations occur on your hardware device. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Note: The entire process typically takes 10–20 minutes. Take your time, double-check each step, and never skip backing up your recovery phrase.

Key Features & Benefits

Secure Storage

Your private keys never leave your Ledger hardware. Even when transacting, all signing is done offline. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Wide Asset Support

Ledger devices support over 5,000+ coins and tokens, allowing one device to manage many crypto types. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Firmware & App Updates

Ledger periodically releases firmware and app updates to enhance security, performance, and add support. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Integration & Web3

Once set up, you can connect your Ledger to Web3 apps, use DeFi, NFTs, and external wallets like MetaMask — all while keeping your keys secure. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

Security & Best Practices

Even after setup, maintaining security is an ongoing process. The portal at ledger.com/start emphasizes key practices you should continue to follow:

Never share your recovery phrase or PIN. Ledger or support will **never** ask for them. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Verify downloads & checksums. Check the published SHA256 or GPG signatures to ensure Ledger Live you downloaded is genuine. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Update firmware regularly. Firmware updates fix vulnerabilities and improve compatibility. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Use a clean device for setup. Avoid public computers; setup from a machine you trust and control.
Be cautious of phishing & scams. Do not click unverified links or respond to unsolicited recovery requests. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Verify transaction details on the device display. Don’t rely solely on what’s shown in the Ledger Live app. Always confirm on the device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is ledger.com/start?

It’s the official setup portal where new users get genuine downloads, step-by-step initialization guidance, and educational resources to start securely. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

Is Ledger Live safe?

Yes. Ledger Live does not store your private keys or recovery phrase. All sensitive operations (key signing) occur on your hardware wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

What if I lose my Ledger device?

If you have your 24‑word recovery phrase stored securely, you can restore your wallet on another Ledger device or compatible wallet. Without the phrase, you lose access. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

Can I use Ledger with MetaMask or other wallets?

Yes — after setup, you can connect Ledger to supported wallets (e.g. MetaMask) or Web3 applications, with your keys still securely stored on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

Does Ledger support staking, NFTs, DeFi?

Yes — once initialized, Ledger Live and integrations allow you to stake supported assets, manage NFTs, and interact with DeFi protocols—all while maintaining self-custody of keys. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

Why did my authenticity check fail?

An authenticity failure may indicate hardware tampering, counterfeit device, or firmware issue. Stop the setup and contact official Ledger support immediately. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

Can I download Ledger Live somewhere else?

It’s strongly recommended to download only from ledger.com/start so you avoid malicious, tampered or counterfeit installers. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}