Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger

Ledger.com/start: The Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Wallet

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding platform designed to guide users through the secure setup of their Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger hardware wallets are among the most trusted solutions for cryptocurrency storage, providing offline security for digital assets and enabling users to interact safely with the blockchain ecosystem.

This comprehensive guide covers how to start with Ledger, key features, supported cryptocurrencies, security measures, and best practices for managing your crypto.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for new and existing users to:

• Set up a Ledger hardware wallet
• Install Ledger Live, the official management application
• Create or recover a crypto wallet
• Secure recovery phrases
• Connect to supported decentralized applications (dApps)

Using the official onboarding process ensures your hardware wallet and software are authentic, protecting against phishing or counterfeit products.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

Ledger hardware wallets provide cold storage, meaning your private keys are stored offline. This greatly reduces the risk of theft from hackers or malware compared to software wallets or exchange-based storage.

Key Benefits of Ledger Wallets

• Full control over private keys
• Offline storage of assets
• Secure transaction signing
• Compatibility with thousands of cryptocurrencies
• Support for DeFi and Web3 applications

Ledger devices are widely used by beginners and professional crypto investors worldwide due to their robust security features.

Getting Started at Ledger.com/start

Step 1: Visit the Official Setup Page

Go to Ledger.com/start to ensure you download the authentic software and follow verified setup instructions.

Step 2: Choose Your Ledger Device

Ledger offers multiple hardware wallet models:

• Ledger Nano S Plus – Entry-level, supports major cryptocurrencies
• Ledger Nano X – Advanced model with Bluetooth support and a larger screen for enhanced usability

Both devices ensure secure offline key storage.

Step 3: Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application for managing your wallet. Features include:

• Sending and receiving crypto
• Portfolio tracking
• Token swaps and exchanges
• Firmware updates
• dApp and Web3 integration

Downloading Ledger Live from the official Ledger website ensures authenticity and security.

Creating a New Wallet on Ledger

Generating Your Recovery Phrase

During setup, Ledger generates a 24-word recovery phrase, which is the only way to restore your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.

Best Practices for Recovery Phrases

• Write the phrase on the included recovery sheet
• Store it in a secure, offline location
• Never take screenshots or save it digitally
• Do not share it with anyone

Ledger never stores your recovery phrase, keeping your funds completely private.

Recovering an Existing Wallet

If you already own a Ledger device or wallet, you can recover access using your existing 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger.com/start guides you through this process safely:

• Plug in your Ledger device
• Select “Restore from Recovery Phrase”
• Enter your 24 words in order
• Confirm the wallet setup

This allows users to regain access without exposing private keys online.

Ledger Live Features Explained

Secure Portfolio Management

Ledger Live provides a clean interface to monitor balances, view transaction history, and track portfolio performance.

Built-In Exchange and Buy Options

Users can buy, sell, or exchange cryptocurrencies directly within Ledger Live using integrated partners, all while keeping private keys offline.

Web3 and DeFi Integration

Ledger devices can connect to Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and other networks to interact securely with dApps. This allows users to:

• Participate in decentralized finance
• Stake supported tokens
• Access NFT marketplaces

All transactions are signed offline on the Ledger device for maximum security.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Ledger wallets support thousands of digital assets, including:

• Bitcoin (BTC)
• Ethereum (ETH)
• Cardano (ADA)
• Solana (SOL)
• Polygon (MATIC)
• Thousands of ERC-20 and other tokens

This broad compatibility makes Ledger ideal for diversified crypto portfolios.

Security Features of Ledger Wallets

Offline Private Keys

All private keys are stored on the device, never on your computer or mobile device.

PIN Code and Passphrase

• PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access
• Optional passphrase allows creation of hidden wallets for extra security

Recovery Seed

• 24-word phrase used to restore wallets
• Only the user has access
• Critical for disaster recovery

Firmware Verification

Ledger devices verify firmware updates, ensuring authenticity and preventing tampering.

Ledger.com/start vs Software Wallets

Hardware wallets like Ledger provide superior protection for long-term holders.

Avoiding Scams During Setup

Phishing and fake websites target Ledger users. Follow these tips:

• Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start
• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase
• Verify URLs and SSL certificates before entering sensitive information
• Do not follow links from suspicious emails or social media

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase online.

Who Should Use Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is ideal for:

• New cryptocurrency users setting up a secure wallet
• Long-term investors holding significant assets
• Users managing multiple digital currencies
• NFT collectors and DeFi participants
• Security-conscious individuals seeking offline storage

Ledger offers peace of mind and full ownership of crypto assets.

Future of Ledger Hardware Wallets

Ledger continues to innovate by:

• Supporting more blockchain networks and tokens
• Expanding Web3 and DeFi integration
• Enhancing user experience and interface
• Improving firmware security and updates

Hardware wallets will remain a key component for safe crypto management as adoption grows.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/start is the official and safest way to set up your Ledger hardware wallet. It provides a secure, step-by-step guide to creating or recovering wallets, installing Ledger Live, and managing digital assets while keeping private keys offline.

With features like offline signing, PIN and passphrase protection, portfolio management, and Web3 integration, Ledger wallets offer unmatched security for cryptocurrency users. Starting at Ledger.com/start ensures your crypto journey begins safely and securely.