Welcome — Quick Overview

Ledger.com/Start® is the official starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live. This guide walks you through the entire process — unboxing, setup, recovery phrase best practices, using Ledger Live, and troubleshooting. The content below is designed to be colorful, scannable and practical so you can begin managing your crypto confidently.

What is Ledger Start and Why Use It?

At its core, Ledger.com/Start® provides secure onboarding to your Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live app. A hardware wallet stores private keys offline so transactions must be approved physically on the device — a critical security advantage over hot wallets. Using the official start page helps avoid phishing and ensures you download authentic, up-to-date Ledger software.

Official tip: Always type the Ledger URL yourself or use a bookmark. Avoid clicking links in emails or social posts.

Step-by-step Setup (Simple & Secure)

  1. 1

    Unbox & Inspect

    Confirm the package seal is intact. Check the quick start card and recovery sheet are included. Do not use if there are signs of tampering.

  2. 2

    Go to Ledger.com/Start®

    Open a modern browser and navigate directly to the official start page to download Ledger Live Desktop or the mobile app.

  3. 3

    Install Ledger Live

    Download, install, and launch Ledger Live. Choose Desktop or Mobile based on your workflow. Ledger Live guides you through connection steps.

  4. 4

    Initialize Device

    Follow on-device prompts to choose “Set up as new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase.” Create a secure PIN when asked.

  5. 5

    Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

    Ledger provides a recovery sheet. Record your 24-word phrase exactly and store it offline in a safe, fireproof place. Do not photograph it or store digitally.

  6. 6

    Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts

    Through Ledger Live, install the apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on your device and add accounts to begin receiving and sending funds.

  7. 7

    Confirm and Secure

    Make a small test transaction before moving large sums. Keep the device firmware and Ledger Live up to date to receive security patches.

Pro tip: Use a dedicated, clean machine for initial setup when possible — avoid public or shared computers.

Security — What Matters Most

Ledger hardware wallets separate the private keys from your internet-connected environment. That said, security is a system: hardware + user habits. Key points to follow:

  • Never disclose your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it.
  • Do not store your recovery phrase digitally (photos, cloud, notes).
  • Use a strong PIN and enable additional device protections where available.
  • Verify transaction details on the device screen — not just on your computer.

Using Ledger Live — The Desktop & Mobile App

Ledger Live is the companion app for portfolio management, transactions, firmware updates and app installs. Key features include portfolio overview, send/receive flows, staking where supported, and app management for each crypto asset.

Tip: Use Ledger Live’s built-in analytics to monitor portfolio performance and enable notifications for software updates.

Troubleshooting — Common Issues & Fixes

Device not detected by Ledger Live

Try a different USB cable or port, restart Ledger Live, and ensure the device shows the unlock screen. Update drivers on Windows if needed.

Firmware update failed

Do not disconnect during an update. If something goes wrong, follow official recovery instructions on Ledger.com/support. Keep calm and follow steps exactly.

Accidental exposure of recovery phrase

If you suspect the phrase was exposed, move funds to a new wallet with a new recovery phrase generated on a fresh device immediately.

Advanced & Best Practices

For power users and long-term holders:

  • Consider splitting recovery words between multiple secure locations or using a metal backup for disaster resistance.
  • Use passphrase (25th word) for hidden wallets if you need deniability — but understand the complexity and risk.
  • Keep a small “hot” wallet for daily use and the bulk in your hardware wallet for cold storage.
  • Document your recovery plan for heirs/trusted contacts — keep it secure and legal where appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ledger recover my funds if I lose my device?

Yes — as long as you have the recovery phrase you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet that supports the same seed standard.

Is Ledger Live required?

Ledger Live is recommended for most users for account management and firmware updates, but advanced users can use other compatible wallets that support Ledger devices.

How often should I update firmware?

Install firmware updates when released to benefit from security improvements. Only update via Ledger Live or official instructions from Ledger.com.

© 2025 Official Guide — Ledger.com/Start®. This page is an independent guide designed to help you get started safely. Always verify official downloads and support information at Ledger.com.