Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

Why Begin at Ledger.com/Start®?

In the world of cryptocurrencies, taking the **first step securely** is crucial. Ledger.com/Start® is the **official onboarding portal** provided by Ledger to guide you through setting up your hardware wallet and installing Ledger Live safely. By starting here, you reduce the risk of counterfeit software, phishing pages, and impostor guides.

Here’s what makes this start point essential:

• ✅ Verified downloads from Ledger’s domain only
• ✅ Step-by-step setup for each Ledger model
• ✅ Built-in checks for device authenticity
• ✅ Direct links to educational resources and support
• ✅ Protection from misleading or malicious clones

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

1. Unbox & Inspect Your Device

   Remove your Ledger device from packaging. Verify the anti-tamper seal is intact and all included items are present—device, USB cable, recovery sheets, documentation. If anything seems tampered with, stop and contact official support.

2. Visit Ledger.com/Start®

   Open your browser and navigate to ledger.com/start. Confirm the SSL padlock and exact domain name. Do **not** follow links from unverified sources or emails.

3. Download Ledger Live

   On the official site, select the correct version of **Ledger Live** for your device (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS). Download only from Ledger.com. Avoid third‑party mirrors or copycat pages.

4. Install & Launch the App

   Install Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device. Once installed, open it to begin the onboarding wizard.

5. Initialize Your Ledger Device

   Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth for supported models). In the app, choose “Set up as new device.” Your device displays prompts to choose language and set a PIN (4 to 8 digits). Memorize or store the PIN safely.

6. Write Down the 24‑Word Recovery Phrase

   The device will generate a 24-word seed phrase (recovery phrase). Write these words in order on the recovery sheets—never store them digitally or photograph them. This phrase is your **only backup**.

7. Confirm the Recovery Phrase

   The device will prompt you to confirm random words from the seed to ensure you recorded it correctly. Only after confirmation does the wallet become functional.

8. Verify Device Authenticity

   Ledger Live will perform an integrity check to confirm your device’s firmware and authenticity. This prevents using compromised or pre-configured devices.

9. Install Coin Apps & Add Accounts

   In Ledger Live, go to Manager → install apps for each cryptocurrency you plan to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Then in Accounts, click “Add Account” and follow prompts. Your device must remain connected and unlocked during this.

10. Send, Receive & Explore Features

    You can now receive crypto (confirm address on device), send funds (enter recipient in Ledger Live, confirm on device), swap assets, stake coins, and manage NFTs. Every action requires physical device confirmation.

Key Features of Ledger Ecosystem

Once setup is complete, you gain access to an array of powerful and secure features through Ledger Live (and integrated services). These include:

Portfolio Tracking & Overview

View real-time value, historical charts, and performance across all supported assets in one dashboard.

Send & Receive Crypto

Manage transactions across blockchains. Always validate addresses on your device screen before approving.

Buy, Sell, and Swap In-App

Through verified service partners (e.g., MoonPay, Changelly), you can buy, sell or exchange crypto directly within Ledger Live—without compromising custody.

Staking Rewards

Earn passive income by staking supported coins (e.g. ETH, DOT, ADA) directly from Ledger Live. The staking operations are signed securely on-device.

NFT & Web3 Integration

Manage compatible NFTs (e.g. on Ethereum, Polygon) and connect safely to dApps via WalletConnect, MetaMask integration, or Ledger Live’s built-in modules. Your private keys never leave the device.

Firmware & App Updates

Ledger Live notifies you when firmware or app updates are available. Always apply updates to ensure security patches and new features.

Security Best Practices

• 🔐 Always confirm you're on https://www.ledger.com/start — check URL and SSL padlock.
• 🔐 Never download from third‑party sites, blogs, emails, or social media links.
• 🔐 Write your recovery phrase only on the official recovery sheet—never in digital form.
• 🔐 Use strong, unique PINs and never reuse them elsewhere.
• 🔐 Store backup phrases in secure, offline locations (fireproof safe, metal backup, etc.).
• 🔐 Regularly update firmware and apps to stay current with security improvements.
• 🔐 Beware of phishing: always access Ledger directly via official domains.
• 🔐 When connecting to dApps or DeFi platforms, double-check URLs and never approve suspicious transactions.
• 🔐 If you lose your device, you can restore using your 24-word phrase on a new Ledger—but only if the phrase is safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Ledger.com/Start safe?

Yes — it is the official setup portal by Ledger. Always ensure the URL reads ledger.com/start and uses HTTPS. Avoid links from unverified sources.

Can I use Ledger Live without the hardware wallet?

No — Ledger Live is the companion app; it requires a Ledger hardware device to function. Private keys never leave the hardware wallet.

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

Unfortunately, funds cannot be recovered without your 24‑word phrase. Ledger cannot help recover it. Always make safe backups.

What if my Ledger device is lost or stolen?

Your crypto remains safe as long as the recovery phrase is secure and no one obtains it. You can restore your wallet on another device using the phrase.

How many cryptocurrencies does Ledger Live support?

Ledger Live supports over 5,500 coins and tokens across multiple blockchains (BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA, etc.). It also supports NFT viewing, staking, and swaps.

Can I interact with DeFi platforms using Ledger?

Yes — using integrations like WalletConnect or MetaMask, your Ledger device can securely sign operations on DeFi platforms without exposing private keys.

How often should I update firmware and apps?

Update as soon as Ledger Live notifies you. Regular updates ensure security patches, compatibility, and feature improvements.