Ledger.com/Start® – The Ultimate 2025 Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Cryptocurrency ownership continues to grow worldwide, and with that growth comes an even greater need for strong security. As digital assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins become more valuable, cyber threats like phishing, hacking, and exchange failures are also increasing. For this reason, millions of users turn to Ledger hardware wallets, known for providing one of the safest ways to store crypto offline.

If you’ve recently purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X and are ready to set it up, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know by usingLedger.com/Start the official and only secure onboarding page provided by Ledger.

What Is Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® is the official setup portal for all Ledger hardware wallets. Whether you're installing your device for the first time or upgrading your existing setup, this page gives you the correct downloads, security warnings, and step-by-step instructions.

When you visit Ledger.com/Start®, you can:

Download the official Ledger Live app
Initialize a new Ledger device
Restore an existing wallet using a recovery phrase
Understand important security practices
Access official support channels

This page ensures you never accidentally download fake applications, which are one of the most common ways scammers attempt to steal crypto.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

Before beginning the setup, it’s essential to understand why Ledger devices are considered the gold standard for crypto security.

1. Offline (Cold) Storage

Unlike software wallets or exchanges, Ledger stores your private keys offline, making them inaccessible to hackers.

2. Certified Secure Element Chip

Ledger devices use a CC EAL5+ certified chip, commonly used in passports and banking systems.

3. User-Controlled Keys

You—not an exchange—hold the private keys. This means you truly own your crypto.

4. Recovery Phrase Backup

Even if you lose your device, you can recover your funds using your 24-word recovery phrase.

5. Supports 5,500+ Cryptocurrencies

From Bitcoin to emerging altcoins, Ledger Live supports a massive range of tokens.

How to Get Started at Ledger.com/Start®

Below is a detailed walkthrough for beginners.

Step 1: Verify Your Device Packaging

Before anything else, inspect your Ledger’s packaging:

It should be sealed and clean
No pre-written recovery phrases should be included
No tampering should be visible

Ledger never prints or gives your 24-word recovery phrase. If you received one written down by someone else, do not use the device.

Step 2: Visit Ledger.com/Start® (Official Only)

Open a browser and type the URL manually:

Ledger.com/Start

Do not click random links online. Fake setup websites are a common threat.

Once on the page, you’ll be directed to download the Ledger Live app—the main software interface for managing your crypto.

Step 3: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is available for:

Windows
macOS
Linux
iOS
Android

Choose the version for your device and install it. Make sure you download only from the official source linked from Ledger.com/Start®.

After installing, open Ledger Live and select “Get Started”.

Step 4: Choose Your Device Model

Ledger Live will ask which device you are setting up:

Ledger Nano X
Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Stax (if applicable)

Select your model and continue.

Step 5: Initialize Your Ledger Device

You’ll now follow on-screen instructions on your physical Ledger.

1. Power on the device

Use the buttons to navigate menus.

2. Create a new wallet

Choose “Set up as new device”.

3. Create a PIN code

Set a secure PIN, ideally 6–8 digits.

4. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase

This is the most critical step.

Your Ledger will display 24 words, one at a time. Write them on the provided recovery sheet.

Important rules:

Never take a photo
Never store it on the cloud
Never share it
Never type it into a computer or phone

This phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if the device is lost or damaged.

After writing it down, your Ledger will quiz you on a few random words to confirm accuracy.

Step 6: Connect Your Ledger to Ledger Live

Once your device is initialized, return to Ledger Live.

Choose:

“Connect your device” → “Add accounts”

You may need to install apps on the device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) depending on which coins you plan to store.

Ledger Live will automatically detect your device and guide you through installation.

Step 7: Add Crypto Accounts

Ledger Live organizes your crypto into accounts.
To add one:

Navigate to “Accounts” → “Add account” → Choose the cryptocurrency.

Your Ledger device may ask for confirmation during this step.

Step 8: Receive Crypto on Your Ledger Wallet

To deposit funds safely:

Open Ledger Live
Go to Receive
Select a crypto account
Verify the displayed address on your Ledger device
Copy and paste it into the exchange or wallet you’re sending from

Always verify addresses on the Ledger device screen—it cannot be tampered with.

Security Best Practices When Using Ledger

1. Always Protect Your Recovery Phrase

This phrase is the CEO of your wallet. Anyone who has it controls your crypto.

Store it:

In a fireproof safe
On metal backup plates
In multiple secure locations

2. Never Enter Your Recovery Phrase Online

Ledger employees will never ask for it. Ledger.com/Start® will never ask for it. Ledger Live will never ask for it.

3. Only Use the Official Ledger Live App

Fake apps are one of the biggest cyberattack vectors.

4. Keep Firmware Updated

Occasional firmware updates enhance security and performance.

5. Use a Dedicated Clean Computer if Possible

Avoid connecting your Ledger to infected or shared devices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are solutions to frequent problems new users face:

1. Ledger Not Recognized by Ledger Live

Try:

Switching USB cables
Restarting Ledger Live
Unlocking your Ledger with your PIN
Updating the USB drivers (Windows)

2. App Storage Is Full

Older Nano S models have limited capacity. Consider a Nano S Plus or Nano X, which support more apps simultaneously.

3. Recovery Phrase Error

This usually means one of the following:

Incorrect spelling
Incorrect word order
Using a recovery phrase from a different wallet

Double-check carefully.

4. Ledger Live Shows “Sync Errors”

Fix by:

Refreshing accounts
Updating Ledger Live
Switching networks (Wi-Fi/Ethernet)

Why Ledger.com/Start® Is the Only Safe Setup Method

Scammers frequently create fake Ledger websites. These websites:

Ask for your recovery phrase
Offer fake versions of Ledger Live
Trick you into giving them access to your funds

Using Ledger.com/Start® guarantees you’re interacting with the legitimate official website, keeping your crypto secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Set Up Ledger Without Ledger.com/Start®?

Technically yes, but it is not recommended. The official site ensures you download the correct software.

2. Is Ledger Live Free?

Yes, it’s completely free. Ledger never charges setup fees.

3. What Happens If I Lose My Ledger Device?

You can restore everything using your 24-word recovery phrase.

4. Can Ledger Employees Recover My Account?

No. Only you have access to your seed phrase.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Ledger device through Ledger.com/Start® is the safest and most reliable way to begin your crypto security journey. Whether you’re an investor, a trader, or a long-term HODLer, protecting your digital assets should always be the top priority.