Setting up a hardware wallet correctly is one of the most important steps in securing cryptocurrency. While Ledger devices are designed with industry-leading security, proper initialization is essential to ensure funds remain protected from the very beginning. Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding page provided by Ledger to guide users through the safe and correct setup of their Ledger hardware wallet.

This guide explains what Ledger.com/Start is, why it is critical to use it, and how it helps users securely get started with Ledger devices while avoiding common mistakes and security risks.

What Is Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® is the official setup and onboarding portal for Ledger hardware wallets. It serves as the trusted starting point for users who have purchased a new Ledger device or need to reinitialize an existing one.

The page provides step-by-step instructions to help users:

• Verify device authenticity
• Download official Ledger software
• Install or update device firmware
• Create a new wallet or restore an existing one
• Secure recovery phrases and device settings

By centralizing the setup process, Ledger ensures users interact only with official tools and instructions, significantly reducing exposure to phishing scams or counterfeit software.

Why Using Ledger.com/Start Is Essential

Many security incidents involving hardware wallets do not result from flaws in the device itself, but from improper setup or interaction with fake websites. Ledger.com/Start is designed to eliminate these risks.

Protection Against Phishing Attacks

Fake Ledger websites and malicious wallet apps are a common threat. Ledger.com/Start ensures users download only genuine software and follow verified instructions.

Secure Device Initialization

Ledger devices are built to generate private keys securely during setup. Starting from the official page ensures that keys are created safely and never exposed.

Firmware Authenticity Verification

Ledger.com/Start guides users through firmware checks, helping confirm that the device has not been tampered with before use.

Supported Ledger Hardware Wallets

Ledger.com/Start supports all current Ledger hardware wallets, including:

• Ledger Nano S Plus
• Ledger Nano X
• Ledger Stax

Each device follows a similar onboarding process, with minor differences in connectivity and screen interaction.

Step-by-Step Overview: Getting Started with Ledger.com/Start®

1. Unbox and Inspect Your Ledger Device

Before connecting your device, check the packaging carefully. Ledger devices are shipped sealed and never come with a prewritten recovery phrase. If a recovery phrase is already included in the box, the device should not be used.

Ledger.com/Start emphasizes this step to help users identify potential tampering.

2. Connect Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the supplied USB cable. For Bluetooth-enabled devices like Ledger Nano X or Ledger Stax, USB connection is still recommended for initial setup.

Once powered on, the device screen will guide you to visit Ledger.com/Start, confirming you are following the official setup path.

3. Download Official Ledger Software

From Ledger.com/Start, users are guided to download Ledger Wallet™ (formerly Ledger Live™), the official software used to manage Ledger devices.

Ledger Wallet is available for:

• Windows
• macOS
• Linux
• iOS
• Android

Using only official software ensures compatibility, security, and access to the latest features.

4. Install or Update Firmware

Ledger devices ship without preinstalled firmware or with a minimal version. During setup, Ledger Wallet will prompt users to install or update firmware.

Key security points:

• Firmware installation must be confirmed on the device
• Ledger verifies firmware authenticity during the process
• Users should never install firmware from third-party sources

This step ensures the device is running trusted, up-to-date software.

Creating or Restoring a Wallet

Once firmware is installed, Ledger.com/Start guides users to choose between two main options.

Create a New Wallet

Creating a new wallet generates fresh private keys securely within the Ledger device. These keys never leave the hardware wallet.

The device then generates a recovery phrase, which is the only backup of the wallet.

Restore an Existing Wallet

Users who already have a recovery phrase can restore access to their crypto by entering the phrase directly on the Ledger device.

Importantly, the recovery phrase is never entered on a computer or phone, preserving security.

Understanding the Recovery Phrase

The recovery phrase is the most critical component of Ledger wallet security.

What Is a Recovery Phrase?

A recovery phrase is a list of 12, 18, or 24 words that acts as the master key to all funds associated with the wallet. Anyone with access to this phrase can control the assets.

Best Practices for Securing the Recovery Phrase

Ledger.com/Start emphasizes the following best practices:

• Write the phrase down on paper
• Never store it digitally
• Never take photos or screenshots
• Keep it offline and private
• Store it in a secure physical location

Ledger will never ask for this phrase under any circumstances.

Setting a PIN Code

During setup, users create a PIN code that protects the device from unauthorized physical access.

Security features include:

• Randomized PIN layout on the device screen
• Increasing delay after incorrect attempts
• Device wipe after multiple failed attempts

This ensures that even if the device is stolen, funds remain secure.

Optional Advanced Security: Passphrase

Ledger.com/Start also introduces users to the optional passphrase feature.

A passphrase adds an extra word to the recovery phrase, creating a hidden wallet.

Benefits include:

• Protection even if the recovery phrase is exposed
• Ability to create multiple hidden wallets
• Additional defense against coercion or theft

Passphrases should be used carefully, as forgetting one makes the associated funds inaccessible.

Completing Setup and First Use

Once setup is complete, users can begin managing their crypto assets through Ledger Wallet.

Typical first actions include:

• Adding cryptocurrency accounts
• Receiving crypto to verified addresses
• Sending test transactions
• Installing blockchain apps on the device
• Exploring staking or portfolio tools

All transactions must be approved directly on the Ledger device screen.

Ongoing Security Best Practices

Ledger.com/Start also encourages users to follow long-term security habits:

• Keep Ledger Wallet updated
• Verify addresses on the device screen
• Be cautious of emails claiming to be Ledger support
• Never share recovery phrases or PIN codes
• Disconnect the device when not in use

Ledger will never contact users to request sensitive information.

Common Mistakes Ledger.com/Start Helps Prevent

By following the official setup process, users avoid common errors such as:

• Using fake Ledger apps or websites
• Entering recovery phrases on computers
• Ignoring firmware verification
• Storing recovery phrases digitally
• Trusting unsolicited support messages

Ledger.com/Start is designed to prevent these mistakes by guiding users step by step.

Ledger.com/Start and Self-Custody

Ledger.com/Start reflects Ledger’s broader mission: empowering users with full ownership of their digital assets. By ensuring secure setup and education from day one, Ledger promotes responsible self-custody without reliance on centralized intermediaries.

In an increasingly digital financial world, starting securely is essential—and Ledger.com/Start provides that foundation.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/Start® is the official and safest way to begin using a Ledger hardware wallet. From verifying device authenticity to securing recovery phrases and installing firmware, the onboarding process is designed to protect users at every stage.

By following the guidance provided through Ledger.com/Start and Ledger Support, users can confidently take control of their cryptocurrency while minimizing risk. Proper setup is not just a recommendation—it is a critical step in safeguarding digital assets for the long term.