Ledger.com/Start — Your Complete Guide to Setting Up a Ledger Wallet

The path to secure self-custody begins with Ledger.com/start. Whether you’ve just purchased a Ledger device or are exploring cold storage for the first time, this guide will walk you through the process step by step — from initialization and setup to best security practices.

🔐 What Is Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page provided by Ledger SAS to ensure you begin your Ledger hardware wallet journey safely and securely. It is the trusted point for downloading the official Ledger Live app, initiating your device, and setting up recovery procedures. Ledger themselves emphasize that this is the secure starting point for all new or recovering users. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

🛠 Why Starting at Ledger.com/Start Matters

In the world of crypto, phishing sites and spoofed wallet installers can cause catastrophic loss. When you access Ledger.com/start:

You receive the **authentic, verified Ledger Live** download package.
Your device gets proper initialization instructions to install firmware safely.
You preserve your security by avoiding third-party or malicious software.
You follow guidance directly from Ledger’s support and security teams. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Using any other source for the initial setup risks supply-chain attacks or fake software. Begin at Ledger.com/start and stay on the official path.

🚀 Step-by-Step Setup via Ledger.com/Start

Step 1: Visit the Official Page

Open your browser and go directly to https://www.ledger.com/start. Bookmark it if you will revisit for updates or firmware later.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile software through which you manage accounts, check balances, install coin apps, send/receive tokens, and more. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} Select your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and download the correct version.

Step 3: Install & Launch Ledger Live

Run the installer and open the app. It will prompt you to start the process — whether to set up a new device or restore an existing one.

Step 4: Connect Your Ledger Device

Use the included USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X) to connect the Ledger hardware to your computer or phone. Ledger Live will detect your device and guide initialization. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Step 5: Initialize — New or Recover

Choose “Set up as new device” (or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you already have one). If new, you’ll:

Set a PIN (typically 4–8 digits).
Write down your **24-word recovery phrase** (seed) on the provided card — offline only.
Confirm a subset of the words to verify they were recorded correctly.

Step 6: Add Crypto Accounts

In Ledger Live, go to the “Accounts” section → “Add account” → pick your crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Ledger Live will instruct you to install the corresponding app onto your device if needed. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

💡 Useful Tips & Security Best Practices

Only download Ledger Live via Ledger.com/start.
Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any computer or online form — not even Ledger Live.
Store your recovery phrase card offline, in a secure location (fireproof safe, metal backup, etc.).
Enable passphrase protection (optional) for layered security.
Regularly update firmware via Ledger Live to benefit from security patches.
Always double-check the address shown on your Ledger device before approving transactions.
Beware phishing — Ledger never calls you or asks for your seed. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

📊 Device Comparison & Use Cases

Feature / Use Case	Ledger Nano S Plus	Ledger Nano X
Connectivity	USB-C only	USB-C + Bluetooth
App Capacity	Moderate (fits top coins)	Higher capacity for many coins
Ideal For	HODLers, minimal portfolio	Active users, mobile & trading
Battery / Power	USB powered only	Internal battery support

🧩 Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

A hardware wallet is your personal “cold vault.” Unlike exchange wallets or software