Ledger.com/start
The official starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Learn how to install Ledger Live, generate a secure recovery phrase on-device, move assets into cold storage, and manage crypto (staking, NFTs, DeFi) with confidence.
Keyword: Ledger.com/start
Why Ledger.com/start matters
When you buy a Ledger device, the most important click is the first one: start at Ledger.com/start. That page leads you to the official Ledger Live app — the secure companion that connects your hardware wallet to the blockchain without ever exposing your private key. Follow the official flow to avoid phishing sites, counterfeit firmware, and other traps that can steal your funds.
Short analogy
Think of Ledger Live as the control room and your Ledger device as the vault. The control room displays information and prepares actions, but the vault (hardware wallet) locks, signs, and releases — only when you physically authorize it.
Quick essentials
What: Official onboarding for Ledger devices.
Why: Prevents phishing; ensures verified Ledger Live & firmware.
Tip: Type the URL manually and bookmark it.
Starter checklist — 5-minute prep
- Ledger device (Nano X or Nano S Plus) & USB cable
- A quiet, offline spot and a pen for your recovery phrase
- A desktop or laptop (Ledger Live desktop recommended)
- Plan two secure physical storage locations for backups
Step-by-step: Setup from Ledger.com/start (safe flow)
1 — Visit Ledger.com/start
Type the URL manually. Confirm HTTPS and the official certificate. Bookmark it for future use.
2 — Download Ledger Live
Select your OS and download Ledger Live. The app is the official interface for Manager, accounts, and firmware updates.
3 — Connect your Ledger
Plug in the device (or pair via Bluetooth for Nano X). Unlock using the PIN you set on-device — never enter the PIN into your computer.
4 — Generate your recovery phrase on-device
Ledger generates a 24-word recovery phrase inside the device. Write each word on paper (or a metal backup) in order. Never photograph or copy digitally.
5 — Confirm & set PIN
Follow the confirm prompts on your device to verify the phrase and then choose a secure PIN to protect the device UI.
6 — Install coin apps & add accounts
Use Ledger Live Manager to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) and add accounts to view balances and history.
7 — Do a small test transfer
Receive a tiny amount from an exchange or another wallet to confirm addresses and spending work as expected. Then migrate larger balances gradually.
How Ledger Live & device keep keys safe
Ledger Live prepares transactions and displays details, but the private key that signs the transaction lives inside the Ledger secure element (a tamper-resistant chip). When you approve on-device, the signature is produced inside the chip and only the signed transaction leaves the device. This model protects against malware, keyloggers, and phishing attempts.
Related terms used naturally:
private key · recovery phrase · cold storage · hardware wallet · staking · NFT
Security quick wins
- Bookmark Ledger.com/start and use that only
- Use desktop Ledger Live (more robust than browser plugins)
- Store recovery phrase offline, in two places
- Consider a metal backup for fire/water durability
Comparison table — Ledger vs Hot Wallets
| Feature | Ledger (hardware + Ledger Live) | Hot Wallet / Exchange |
|---|---|---|
| Private key storage | Offline in secure element | Online, held by app or provider |
| Recovery | 24-word recovery phrase (user-held) | Password reset / provider assistance |
| Phishing & malware risk | Low — on-device signing | High — credentials can be stolen |
| Convenience | Moderate — device required | High — instant access |
| Best for | Long-term holdings, staking, secure DeFi interactions | Frequent trading, small daily amounts |
Quote highlight
“Start at Ledger.com/start not because it’s convenient, but because it is the safe path — the small step that prevents big losses.” — Security designer
Frequently asked questions (concise)
Q: Do I need Ledger Live to use Ledger device?
Ledger Live is the recommended companion app for Manager, firmware, accounts, staking tools and integrations. Third-party wallets exist but Ledger Live simplifies secure management and official updates.
Q: Can Ledger.com/start be bookmarked?
Yes — bookmarking prevents typos and reduces phishing risk. Prefer HTTPS with a valid certificate.
Q: What if I lose my device?
Restore using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. If the phrase may be compromised, move funds to a new seed immediately.
Conclusion — Start smart at Ledger.com/start
The single best habit you can form is to always begin your Ledger journey at the official start page. Download Ledger Live, generate your recovery phrase on-device, use cold storage for long-term holdings, and confirm every action on the hardware screen. With those practices — and periodic firmware checks and secure backups — Ledger becomes a practical fortress for your digital assets: private keys remain private, and you remain in full control.