How to Get Started with Ledger Hardware Wallet – Visit ledger.com/start


What Is Ledger and Why Use It?

Ledger is a leading manufacturer of hardware wallets, with products like the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. These wallets provide a secure offline environment to store your crypto assets, preventing exposure to online threats like hacks or phishing attacks.

Unlike software wallets, which are vulnerable to malware and cyber threats, a Ledger hardware wallet keeps your private keys offline, making it one of the safest ways to manage your crypto portfolio.

Step 1: Visit ledger.com/start

Your journey begins at ledger.com/start – the official Ledger onboarding portal. Here, you can:

  • Download Ledger Live, the companion app
  • Choose and set up your Ledger device
  • Access step-by-step tutorials
  • Learn essential security tips

Always ensure you're on the official Ledger website to avoid counterfeit or phishing scams.

Step 2: Unbox and Check Your Ledger Device

When you receive your Ledger device, inspect the packaging for tampering. Ledger devices are shipped in a secure box and should come with:

  • The Ledger hardware wallet
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheets
  • Quick start guide

Do not use a device if it appears pre-configured or already initialized.

Step 3: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application that allows you to manage your assets, check balances, send and receive crypto, and install apps for various blockchains.

To get started:

  1. Go to ledger.com/start
  2. Select your device model (Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus)
  3. Download Ledger Live for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux)
  4. Install and launch the application

Ledger Live supports over 5,000 coins and tokens including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and many ERC-20 tokens.

Step 4: Set Up Your Ledger Wallet

Once Ledger Live is installed:

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone
  2. Follow on-screen instructions in Ledger Live
  3. Create a new wallet or restore an existing one
  4. Set a secure PIN code on your device
  5. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase and store it in a secure, offline place

Important: Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask you for it. Anyone with access to it can steal your funds.

Step 5: Install Crypto Apps

After setup, install the cryptocurrency apps you wish to use. For example, to manage Ethereum:

  1. Open Ledger Live
  2. Navigate to the “My Ledger” tab
  3. Install the Ethereum app onto your Ledger device

This process can be repeated for any supported blockchain network.

Step 6: Add Accounts in Ledger Live

Once apps are installed:

  1. Go to the “Accounts” section
  2. Click “Add account”
  3. Choose the cryptocurrency and follow the prompts

Now you can view your wallet balance, transaction history, and receive/send crypto.

Step 7: Receive and Send Crypto Securely

To receive crypto:

  • Select the account
  • Click “Receive”
  • Confirm the wallet address on your device and share it with the sender

To send crypto:

  • Select the account
  • Click “Send”
  • Enter the recipient’s address and amount
  • Verify and confirm the transaction using your Ledger device

Every transaction must be manually approved on your hardware wallet, ensuring full control and security.

Benefits of Using ledger.com/start

  • Secure Setup: Avoid scams by using the official Ledger start page
  • Step-by-Step Guidance: Easy instructions make the setup process beginner-friendly
  • Access to Ledger Live: Manage crypto, NFTs, and staking from a single dashboard
  • Regular Updates: Stay current with firmware and security improvements

Additional Tips for Using Ledger Safely

  1. Enable firmware updates: Regular updates improve security and add support for new assets.
  2. Use a secure computer: Avoid using your Ledger device on public or compromised computers.
  3. Store recovery phrase offline: Never store your 24 words digitally or online.
  4. Avoid phishing: Only trust communications from ledger.com and never click suspicious links.

Common FAQs

Is Ledger compatible with all cryptocurrencies?
Ledger supports thousands of coins and tokens. You can check full compatibility on ledger.com/start or within Ledger Live.

Can I use Ledger with mobile devices?
Yes, the Ledger Nano X supports Bluetooth and can be paired with your smartphone using the Ledger Live mobile app.

What happens if I lose my Ledger device?
Your funds are safe as long as your recovery phrase is secure. You can restore your wallet on a new Ledger using the same 24 words.

Final Thoughts

Securing your digital assets is more important than ever. Using ledger.com/start ensures you're setting up your Ledger hardware wallet the right way, avoiding scams and ensuring your crypto stays protected. Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced investor, Ledger provides peace of mind through trusted, industry-leading security.