Ledger.com/Start® — Getting Started with Your Ledger Device

Introduction

Ledger hardware wallets protect cryptocurrency by keeping private keys isolated from internet-connected devices. Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal where you will find verified downloads of Ledger Live (the companion desktop and mobile app), firmware updates, step-by-step setup instructions, and security guidance. This page collects those essentials into a single practical walkthrough so you can start securely and confidently.

Before You Begin

Prepare before you unbox. A few minutes of planning greatly reduces risk during setup:

• Use a trusted computer or mobile device — ideally your personal machine with up-to-date OS and antivirus protection.
• Open a browser and navigate directly to https://www.ledger.com/start (type the URL or use a trusted bookmark — do not follow random search-engine links).
• Have a pen and a durable backup medium ready for your recovery phrase. Consider a metal seed backup for long-term durability.
• Keep packaging and tamper-evident seals for inspection during unboxing.

Unboxing & Physical Checks

When your Ledger arrives, visually inspect packaging and device for signs of tampering. Ledger devices ship with tamper-evident packaging — if seals look broken or the device appears altered, contact Ledger support before connecting it.

1. Remove the device and accessories (USB cable, recovery sheet).
2. Check that the device powers on and the screen shows the official Ledger boot animation.
3. Do not use a second-hand device without verifying the seed and device state — prefer a new, sealed device for first-time custody.

Ledger Live — Companion App

Ledger Live is the official desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android) app that manages accounts, installs blockchain apps on your device, and performs firmware updates. Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/start or official app stores to avoid phishing or tampered installers.

Initial Setup: Create or Recover

Ledger Live walks you through creating a new device or recovering an existing wallet. The recommended flow for a brand-new device is Create a new wallet. During setup, the device will generate a recovery phrase — this is the only reliable backup of your funds.

1. Select "Set up as new device" in Ledger Live when prompted.
2. The device will display a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words). Write the words down precisely, in order, on the supplied recovery sheet or a durable backup.
3. Ledger Live will ask you to confirm a sample of words to verify you recorded them correctly.
4. Choose a secure PIN on the device to protect against local access if the device is stolen.

Recovery Phrase — Best Practices

Your recovery phrase is the single most critical piece of information. Protect it accordingly:

• Never share your recovery phrase with anyone or enter it on a website or app.
• Store multiple copies in geographically separate, secure locations (e.g., a home safe and a bank safe deposit box).
• Use metal backup plates if you’re concerned about fire or water damage to paper backups.
• Test your recovery periodically on a spare device (without transferring funds) to confirm the backup is correct.

Firmware Updates & Device Care

Firmware updates provide security patches and feature improvements. Ledger Live will notify you when a firmware update is available. Always install updates via Ledger Live and confirm any fingerprint or update details shown on your device screen. Do not install firmware from untrusted sources.

If a firmware update fails or the device does not respond, consult Ledger’s official support resources rather than following random advice from forums — improper recovery attempts can permanently damage the device.

Adding Accounts & Managing Apps

Use Ledger Live's Manager to install blockchain-specific apps (for example, Bitcoin or Ethereum) onto your device. Installing an app does not move your funds; it simply enables the device to derive addresses and interact with a particular blockchain via Ledger Live.

1. Open the "Manager" tab in Ledger Live and connect your device.
2. Install only the apps you need; device storage is limited, but apps can be removed and reinstalled without affecting funds (funds are derived from the recovery phrase).
3. After installing an app, add the corresponding account in the "Accounts" tab to view balances and transactions.

Sending & Receiving Funds

When sending funds, Ledger Live prepares an unsigned transaction and sends it to your device to be signed. The device shows the recipient address, amount and fees for you to verify. Only approve transactions you expect — malware on a host could try to alter transaction details; the device display is the authoritative source.

For incoming funds, use the "Receive" function in Ledger Live to generate an address; verify the address on your device screen before sharing it with a sender.

Mobile Pairing & Bluetooth (Nano X)

If you have a Ledger Nano X, you can pair it with Ledger Live mobile via Bluetooth. Follow the in-app pairing instructions and confirm the pairing code on-device. For security, disable Bluetooth when not required and avoid pairing in public places where attackers could attempt to intercept the pairing flow.

Security Tips & Operational Hygiene

• Keep your OS and Ledger Live updated to receive security fixes and compatibility updates.
• Use a strong, unique PIN on the device; avoid obvious choices and don’t reuse PINs across devices.
• Consider using an optional passphrase (advanced): it creates a hidden wallet derived from your recovery phrase but must be stored and remembered securely.
• Use small test transactions when interacting with new services or addresses to validate flows before moving large amounts.

Troubleshooting

Advanced Options & Custody Strategies

For larger holdings, explore multisignature wallets, distributing funds across multiple devices, or using enterprise-grade custody solutions. Ledger provides developer APIs and integrations for institutional workflows; follow official documentation when building custom custody solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I restore my Ledger on any compatible device?

Yes. With your recovery phrase you can restore on any Ledger device or compatible wallet that supports the same derivation standards. Ensure you restore only on devices you trust.

Should I keep my recovery phrase in a safe deposit box?

Many users store a copy in a bank safe deposit box for long-term redundancy, but weigh accessibility needs and local jurisdictional risks. A balanced approach often includes multiple copies in geographically separated, secure locations.

What happens if Ledger Live disappears or is discontinued?

Your recovery phrase — not Ledger Live — is the master key to your funds. You can use other compatible wallets to restore and manage your accounts if necessary. That said, Ledger Live is the recommended companion app for Ledger devices.