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

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start, the official and secure onboarding portal provided by Ledger. If you have recently purchased a Ledger hardware wallet (such as the Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax, or Flex), or are planning to, this is the place to begin. This guide will walk you through each critical step — from setup, security, usage, to ongoing best practices — so you can manage your crypto portfolio with confidence.

Why Ledger.com/Start Exists

In the world of cryptocurrencies, the smallest mistake can lead to significant losses. Ledger.com/Start is designed to be your **trusted beginning** — the sanctioned gateway that ensures each user follows authentic instructions, uses official software, and avoids phishing or counterfeit threats. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

By navigating to Ledger.com/Start, you benefit from:

• Verified downloads of Ledger Live (desktop & mobile) — no third‑party mirrors
• Clear, step‑by‑step setup instructions tailored to your device
• Security checks (e.g. “genuine check”) to detect tampering
• Access to support resources, FAQs, and firmware update links
• Protection from fraudulent setup guides or phishing pages

Step‑by‑Step: How to Get Started at Ledger.com/Start

1. Unbox & Inspect Your Device
   Upon delivery, ensure your Ledger device is sealed and untampered. Check that the packaging is intact, security seals are unbroken, and contents include the device, USB cable, recovery sheet, and documentation. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
2. Visit Ledger.com/Start
   Open your browser and type https://www.ledger.com/start (or click the secure link). Always double-check the URL and avoid clicking on search engine or social media links that might be spoofed. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
3. Download Ledger Live
   From the start page, select your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS) and download the official Ledger Live application. Do **not** download from other sources. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
4. Install & Launch Ledger Live
   Run the downloaded installer and open the application. The interface will guide you to “Get Started” and allow you to set up a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
5. Initialize Your Ledger Device
   - Connect the Ledger with the supplied USB (or via Bluetooth if your model supports).
   - Choose “Set up as new device.”
   - Select a secure PIN (4 to 8 digits).
   - The device will generate a **24‑word recovery phrase**. Write it down exactly (in the right order) on the recovery sheet. Store this offline and securely.
   - The device may prompt you to confirm the recovery phrase by selecting words. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
6. Verify Device Authenticity & Update Firmware
   Once initialized, Ledger Live runs a “genuine check” to confirm the device’s integrity. If the device passes, proceed to install any firmware updates available. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
7. Install Crypto Apps via Ledger Live
   Inside the Manager section of Ledger Live, install apps corresponding to the blockchains or assets you wish to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). These apps allow the hardware wallet to process those assets. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
8. Add and Manage Accounts
   Use the “Accounts” section in Ledger Live to add supported cryptocurrencies. Once an account is added, you can receive, send, and track balances for that asset. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
9. Start Using Your Wallet
   With your Ledger device and Ledger Live ready, you can:
   • Receive cryptocurrencies — funds will appear in your Ledger account.
   • Send funds — each transaction must be confirmed on the device itself.
   • Swap or buy crypto via Ledger’s integrated partner services.
   • Stake or delegate where supported.
   • Interact with Web3, NFTs, or DeFi via connected apps (e.g. MetaMask, WalletConnect). :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Security Tips & Best Practices

Ledger offers strong foundational security, but your diligence is essential. Here are best practices to maintain safety:

• Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase. Ledger will never request this. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Do not store the recovery phrase digitally (no photos, screenshots, text files). Store it on paper or metal backups offline. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Always confirm transaction details on the hardware device display before approving.
• Keep your firmware and Ledger Live app up to date to benefit from security patches.
• Bookmark Ledger.com/Start and always access setup or download pages from that page to avoid phishing clones.
• Be cautious with unsolicited emails, popups, or links claiming “urgent” Ledger upgrades. Always verify via official site. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Use a secure environment (trusted computer or phone) during setup. Avoid public or shared computers.
• Consider enabling a passphrase (25th word) feature for added security (optional advanced protection).

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Many users encounter minor hiccups during setup. Here are solutions to frequent problems:

• Device not recognized: Swap USB ports or cable, restart your computer, ensure drivers are updated.
• Firmware installation fails: Retry or use another USB port; verify you’re using the official Ledger Live installer from Ledger.com/Start.
• Recovery phrase mismatch: If the words don’t align, reinitialize the device and carefully re-write the phrase.
• Forgot PIN: Reset the device and restore via recovery phrase — though funds remain safe. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Missing or tampered package: If the box appears opened, seals broken, or leaflets missing, contact official support before proceeding. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Why This Matters

The cryptosphere is rife with phishing, fake wallet apps, and malicious copycat websites. Initiating your setup via Ledger.com/Start protects you from entering vulnerable paths. It ensures you are downloading the correct, untampered software and are guided through the legitimate initialization sequence. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Ledger hardware wallets place private keys in a secure, isolated environment (a certified secure element), so even if your computer is compromised, your crypto remains protected. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Video Walkthrough

For users who prefer visual guidance, here’s an official video walkthrough showing the initial setup, connecting Ledger, and starting with Ledger Live: ::contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Conclusion

If you've just got your Ledger device, or plan to, the right place to begin is Ledger.com/Start. It’s your official, secure, trusted portal to set up your wallet, install Ledger Live, protect your private keys, and begin managing crypto safely. By following the steps outlined above, adhering to security best practices, and verifying authenticity at each stage, you establish a robust foundation for your digital asset journey.

Ready to begin? Visit Ledger.com/Start now and start your secure crypto journey.