Ledger.com/Start – Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

A security-first, step-by-step handbook for getting your Ledger device up and running. This guide walks you through downloading Ledger Live, initializing your hardware wallet, safeguarding your recovery phrase, adding accounts, and transacting safely.

Start Setup Read the full guide

Why Ledger.com/Start matters

A hardware wallet is only as secure as the setup process. Ledger.com/Start is Ledger's official entry point — the curated place to download Ledger Live, confirm device authenticity, and follow best practices for handling your recovery phrase and private keys. Use the official setup flow to avoid counterfeit software, phishing, and common mistakes that place funds at risk.

Overview — What you’ll do

The basic steps you will complete are: (1) download Ledger Live from the official site, (2) verify your device packaging, (3) initialize the hardware wallet and record your recovery phrase offline, (4) install Ledger Live apps and add accounts, (5) send and receive transactions while always verifying addresses on your device, and (6) keep firmware and software up to date.

Step 1 — Download Ledger Live (official)

Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger hub. Click the official link to get the correct binary for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. This prevents tampered installers or fake apps that attempt to steal your credentials. Use this official start point: Ledger.com/Start.

Step 2 — Inspect and verify your device

When your Ledger arrives, inspect the packaging for tamper-evidence. Ledger ships devices in sealed boxes; if the seal is broken or the packaging looks altered, contact Ledger support before powering on. Never rely on unsolicited setup instructions from social media or emails — always use the official guide on Ledger.com/Start.

Step 3 — Initialize your Ledger device securely

Connect the device and follow Ledger Live’s onboarding. During initialization you will create a device PIN and be shown a recovery phrase (seed). Write the recovery phrase on paper (or a metal backup) and store it offline in at least two secure locations. Do not photograph, type, or store the phrase digitally. Confirm the phrase on the device as instructed. For official visuals and walkthroughs open: Ledger.com/Start.

Step 4 — Install Ledger Live and add accounts

After installation, Ledger Live will let you add accounts for supported coins. Add the coins you hold, let the app sync, and verify balances. Always confirm receiving addresses on the hardware device itself before sharing them. Use the official download and setup instructions at Ledger.com/Start.

Step 5 — Sending and receiving safely

When sending funds, Ledger Live constructs the transaction but the final confirmation appears on the device screen — that final check is crucial. Verify both the amount and the recipient address displayed on the Ledger screen before approving. To generate receiving addresses, create them in Ledger Live and verify the same address on the device display. If a mismatch occurs, cancel and re-check. Ledger's official setup hub provides examples and tips: Ledger.com/Start.

Step 6 — Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated

Ledger regularly releases firmware and app updates to improve security and add features. Ledger Live will prompt updates; always install them through the official app. Never install firmware from unknown sources. Confirm update prompts come from Ledger Live downloaded at Ledger.com/Start.

Tip: consider using a metal backup plate for the recovery phrase for fire and water resistance. Keep one backup in a separate, secure location (safe deposit box or trusted physical safe).

Security best practices

  • Never enter your recovery phrase anywhere online — Ledger will never ask you for it. If asked, it's a scam.
  • Use strong, unique PINs and consider enabling an optional passphrase if you need plausible deniability or separation between accounts.
  • Maintain multiple, geographically separated backups of your recovery phrase in secure physical locations.
  • Only download Ledger Live and resources from Ledger.com/Start.

Advanced features — staking, apps & integrations

Ledger Live supports staking, third-party integrations, and DeFi interactions through verified connectors. Use advanced features only after you understand the flow and confirm transactions on the device screen. Consult official documentation and guides on Ledger's start hub for any integrations you plan to use.

Troubleshooting — quick fixes

Device not recognized? Try a different cable or USB port, ensure the OS grants permissions, restart Ledger Live, and verify you have the official app from Ledger.com/Start. If problems persist consult the Help Center.

Final checklist before transacting

  1. Ledger Live installed from the official hub (Ledger.com/Start) — LINK 10
  2. Device PIN configured and tested
  3. Recovery phrase written down and stored offline
  4. Firmware up-to-date
  5. Receiving/sending addresses verified on the device screen

Why a security-first approach matters

Hardware wallets isolate private keys from internet-connected devices, greatly reducing the risk of hacks. But user mistakes during setup — downloading fake apps, storing seeds online, or approving incorrect addresses — can compromise funds. Following a single authoritative source for setup and downloads (Ledger.com/Start) eliminates many common attack vectors and gives you practical guidance to keep your crypto secure.

Useful embed & share snippets

Use this short HTML snippet to link users to the official start hub from your documentation: 

<a href="https://www.ledger.com/start" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get started with Ledger — Ledger.com/Start</a>

If you follow these steps and the official materials at Ledger.com/Start, your Ledger device will be set up in a secure and resilient way that keeps you in control of your crypto assets.

— End of Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide —