Ledger.com/start: Your Guide to Getting Started with Ledger Hardware Wallets

martin

12 Feb 2026 — 4 min read

When it comes to securing your cryptocurrency assets, Ledger hardware wallets stand at the forefront of security, offering users a robust solution to store their digital wealth offline. If you’re looking to take the first step toward securing your crypto assets, Ledger.com/start is the place to begin. This page is designed to guide users through the initial setup process, ensuring a smooth and secure experience with your Ledger device, whether it's a Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano X, or the latest offerings from Ledger.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps, explain the features of Ledger hardware wallets, and highlight the importance of security when managing your digital assets.

What Is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official webpage dedicated to guiding you through the first-time setup of your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’ve just purchased a Ledger device or are simply curious about how to secure your cryptocurrency, this page provides detailed instructions on getting started.

From downloading the Ledger Live application to backing up your recovery phrase, Ledger.com/start ensures that you’re set up with the highest levels of security from the moment you open your wallet.

Why Choose a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

Before diving into the setup process, it’s important to understand why a Ledger hardware wallet is a great choice for securing your digital assets.

1. Top-Notch Security

Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys offline, ensuring that your funds are protected from online threats such as hacking or phishing. The device uses a secure chip (Secure Element, or SE) to sign transactions, ensuring your keys are never exposed to the internet.

2. Supports Over 5,500 Cryptocurrencies

Ledger wallets support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and many others. This broad support means you can store all your crypto assets in one secure device.

3. Easy to Use

Despite their advanced security features, Ledger devices are user-friendly. With Ledger Live, the companion app, you can easily manage your assets, view balances, and send or receive crypto.

Setting Up Your Ledger Device with Ledger.com/start

Once you’ve purchased your Ledger device (whether it’s the Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano X, or another model), Ledger.com/start will guide you through the setup process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Download and Install Ledger Live

The first step is to download Ledger Live, which is the app that connects with your Ledger hardware wallet. It is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Visit Ledger.com/start and select your device model (Nano S or Nano X).
Download the Ledger Live app from the official Ledger website. Make sure you only use official sources to avoid malicious software.
Install and launch Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device.

2. Set Up Your Ledger Device

Once you’ve installed Ledger Live, you can connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer via USB or Bluetooth (for Nano X).

Follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live to initialize your device.
Set up a PIN code for extra security. This PIN code will be required each time you access your device.

3. Backup Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most important step. Your recovery phrase is a 24-word sequence that serves as a backup to restore your wallet if your device is lost or stolen.

Ledger Live will prompt you to write down your recovery phrase on a secure piece of paper.
Do not store it digitally (e.g., screenshots, cloud storage) to avoid exposure to hackers.
Once you’ve securely written down your recovery phrase, Ledger Live will ask you to confirm some of the words to ensure you’ve correctly backed it up.

4. Install Apps for Your Cryptocurrencies

After you’ve set up your device, you can install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to store on your Ledger wallet.

Ledger Live allows you to install apps for multiple cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Binance Coin.
Each app is necessary to manage your assets, and you can install as many apps as your device’s storage allows.

5. Transfer Crypto to Your Ledger Device

Once your wallet is set up and your apps are installed, you’re ready to transfer cryptocurrencies from exchanges or other wallets to your Ledger device.

In Ledger Live, go to the "Receive" section for the cryptocurrency you want to receive.
Copy your Ledger wallet address and paste it into the sending platform to transfer your crypto securely.

Key Security Features of Ledger Devices

While setting up your Ledger device, it’s important to note the following security features:

Private Keys Stay Offline: Your private keys are never exposed to the internet, ensuring maximum security.
Secure Element (SE): Ledger devices use a dedicated secure chip that protects your private keys even if your computer is compromised.
PIN Protection: The PIN you set up ensures that even if someone has physical access to your device, they cannot use it without knowing the code.
Backup with Recovery Phrase: The recovery phrase ensures that you can recover your assets in case of theft, loss, or damage to your device.

What to Do After Setting Up Your Ledger Device

After completing the setup, make sure to:

Verify your backup: Ensure you’ve written down and stored your recovery phrase securely.
Keep your Ledger device safe: Physical security is just as important as digital security. Store your Ledger wallet in a safe place.
Regularly check for updates: Keep both your Ledger Live app and Ledger hardware wallet firmware updated to benefit from the latest security improvements.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/start is the perfect starting point for anyone who wants to secure their cryptocurrencies using a Ledger hardware wallet. The setup process is straightforward, and with Ledger Live, you can easily manage your assets while enjoying robust security features that protect you from online threats.