Official Site® • Ledger.com/Start® • Quick Guide

Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started

This colorful, single‑page presentation walks you through getting started with a Ledger hardware wallet—from unboxing to your first secure transaction. You’ll see best‑practice security tips, a checklist for backups, and answers to common questions. Use the official onboarding flow at ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live, check device authenticity, and apply firmware or app updates safely.

Why start at Ledger.com/Start?

The official start page routes you to authentic downloads and device‑specific guides. It’s your safest entry point to Ledger Live and the firmware required by Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or future models. Avoid search‑engine ads and third‑party mirrors; bookmarks help you return to the correct place instantly.

  • ✅ Verified software downloads
  • ✅ Device authenticity checks
  • ✅ Step‑by‑step onboarding
  • ✅ Current firmware and app versions

Step‑by‑Step: First‑Time Setup

Step 1

Unbox and Inspect

Ensure packaging is intact. Ledger devices come without pre‑printed recovery phrases. If any phrase card is pre‑filled or your device appears initialized, stop and contact support.

Step 2

Visit the Official Link

Using a trusted browser, go to ledger.com/start (use the buttons above). Download Ledger Live for your OS, verify the installer signature if you can, then run the setup.

Step 3

Initialize Your Device

Power on the device, choose Set up as new, and create a secure PIN. The device will display your 24‑word recovery phrase one word at a time. Write the words on the blank recovery sheet in order.

Step 4

Secure the Recovery Phrase

Store the recovery sheet offline in multiple safe places. Never type it into a website, camera, cloud, or computer. Anyone with this phrase can control your crypto.

Step 5

Install Apps in Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live and connect your device. Go to Manager to install coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Keep only what you use to save space.

Step 6

Receive and Send Safely

Create an account in Ledger Live, then generate a receive address and verify it on the device screen. For sending, confirm every detail on the device before approving.

Security Essentials (Read Before Transacting)

  • Never share the 24‑word recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it.
  • Bookmark the start page and the support portal to avoid look‑alike domains.
  • Verify receive addresses on the device screen every time.
  • Keep your device PIN secret; enable auto‑lock and update firmware via Ledger Live only.
  • Be cautious with browser extensions and signing unknown smart‑contract prompts.
Backup & Recovery Tips

Consider two geographically separate backups of the recovery phrase. If the device is lost or damaged, a new Ledger or any BIP39‑compatible wallet can restore funds with the phrase. Test a small restore on a spare device before relying on it in production.

For long‑term holdings, keep a fresh, sealed spare device ready. Document your process for your future self or trusted heirs without exposing sensitive details.

Common Questions

Is Ledger Live mandatory?

It’s the recommended companion app for device management, updates, and account tracking. Some advanced users connect via third‑party wallets, but beginners should start with Ledger Live from the official link above.

What if I lose my device?

Funds stay on the blockchain. Use the 24‑word recovery phrase on a new Ledger to restore access. If you suspect the phrase was compromised, move funds to a fresh wallet immediately after recovery.

Should I use a passphrase (25th word)?

A passphrase can add security but increases complexity and loss‑risk if forgotten. Only use it if you fully understand how to back it up and recover it.

Pro Tips for Smooth Onboarding

  1. Use a clean, updated computer profile when installing Ledger Live.
  2. Disable clipboard managers and screenshot tools during setup.
  3. Confirm checksums/signatures where possible for installers.
  4. Practice a dry‑run receive and send with small amounts first.
  5. Write a short, private checklist for future restores.

When in doubt, return to the trusted starting point: ledger.com/start.

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