This guide focuses on Ledger.com/start—the typical entry point for people setting up a Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you're new to hardware wallets or revisiting best practices, this page walks through the essential steps: initial device setup, installing Ledger Live, safeguarding your recovery phrase, and maintaining long-term security.
What is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is commonly used to indicate the official starting instructions for Ledger hardware wallets. The goal is simple: give users a single place to begin the setup process, download Ledger Live, and follow verified steps to protect their funds. Always ensure you are on the official site or using official materials to avoid scams.
Step-by-step setup (quick overview)
- Unbox & verify packaging: Confirm the package hasn't been tampered with. Ledger devices come with tamper-evident seals—if in doubt, contact support.
- Go to Ledger.com/start: Use a browser you trust and type the address manually—don't click unexpected links in email or chat messages.
- Download Ledger Live: Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts, installing apps on the device, and sending/receiving crypto.
- Create a new device: Follow the animated prompts on the device. Choose a PIN, and write down the recovery phrase exactly as shown.
- Confirm the recovery phrase: You'll be asked to confirm by selecting words in order—this verifies you copied it correctly.
- Install apps & add accounts: Within Ledger Live, install the coin-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on your device and add accounts to manage balances.
Securing your recovery phrase
The recovery phrase (typically 24 words) is the master key to your crypto. Treat it as the most sensitive secret you own.
- Write the phrase only on the provided recovery card or a durable metal backup—never store it digitally (no photos, no cloud storage, no text files).
- Consider using a metal seed storage solution to protect against fire, water, and degradation.
- Keep the phrase physically separated from where you keep your device, in two or more secure locations if needed for redundancy.
- Never share the phrase with anyone claiming to be "support"—Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Using Ledger Live safely
Ledger Live is the standard, trusted interface for device management. A few best practices:
- Keep Ledger Live updated. Updates often include security patches and new coin support.
- Verify firmware updates on the device screen before accepting them. Firmware updates should be initiated from Ledger Live only.
- When connecting to third-party dApps or wallets, confirm the transaction details on the device screen before approving.
Common troubleshooting
If something doesn't go as planned during Ledger.com/start, here are practical steps:
- Device not recognized: Try a different cable, USB port, or computer. Avoid USB hubs when possible.
- Forgot PIN: A device reset is required; you'll need your recovery phrase to restore accounts.
- Lost recovery phrase: If you lose the phrase and still have the device, create a new wallet and transfer funds to the new wallet immediately.
Advanced security practices
For larger holdings or long-term storage, consider these additional measures:
- Multi-sig wallets: Use multi-signature schemes that require multiple hardware devices or cosigners for high-value vaults.
- Passphrase (25th word): A passphrase acts as an extra word on top of your recovery phrase to derive a different wallet. Use only if you fully understand the risks and backup complexity.
- Air-gapped setup: Some advanced users set up a device in an air-gapped environment. This reduces exposure during sensitive operations.
Checklist: before you finish
- Have you written your recovery phrase on a secure, offline medium?
- Have you tested restoring the device from the phrase in a safe environment (optional but recommended for critical users)?
- Is Ledger Live installed from the official source and updated?
- Do you understand how to verify transactions on the device screen?
FAQ
- Can I use Ledger with multiple computers?
- Yes. Ledger devices can be connected to different computers; your private keys remain on the device. Always plug into trusted machines.
- What if someone offers to help me set up my device remotely?
- Do not accept remote help that asks you to reveal your recovery phrase or enter it into any software. Setup should be completed physically with the device in your hands.
- Is Ledger.com/start the only way to get started?
- It's the recommended starting point for official instructions and Ledger Live downloads, but double-check URLs and use official channels to avoid phishing.
Final safety reminder
Hardware wallets like those started at Ledger.com/start raise the bar for security, but they are not a substitute for sensible operational security. Keep your recovery phrase offline, update firmware responsibly, and verify every transaction on the device screen. If anything feels suspicious—unexpected emails, unknown wallet requests, or pressure to move funds—pause and verify through official channels.
Stay curious, stay cautious, and treat your recovery phrase like the crown jewels. If you follow the steps above, you'll have a strong foundation for managing crypto safely with Ledger.