Ledger.com/Start®
Official Ledger Wallet Setup • Ledger Live & Device Guidance
Secure • Official • Beginner-Friendly
Ledger.com/Start — The official guide to safely set up and manage your Ledger hardware wallet with Ledger Live.

Ledger.com/Start provides step-by-step instructions to initialize your Ledger device, install Ledger Live, verify firmware, set up recovery and PIN codes, and begin securely managing cryptocurrencies across multiple assets.

Device Security

All private keys remain on your Ledger hardware wallet. Signing transactions occurs entirely on-device, preventing exposure to malware.

Multi-Crypto Support

Ledger supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, ERC-20 tokens, and many altcoins. Ledger Live allows easy management and transaction tracking.

Beginner-Friendly Flow

Guided instructions for setup, backup, recovery, and first transactions. Clear interface ensures minimal risk during onboarding.

Step-by-step Ledger Wallet setup

The setup process ensures security and safe recovery of your assets.

Step 1 — Unboxing & Inspection

Check the tamper-evident packaging. Only purchase devices from authorized sellers or Ledger's official store. Do not connect the device if the seal is broken or suspicious.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official website. Install it on your computer or mobile device and follow the guided instructions for connecting your Ledger device.

Step 3 — Device Initialization

Power on the device, choose a PIN, and generate your recovery phrase. Never store the recovery phrase digitally or online. Write it on the supplied card or a secure backup method.

Step 4 — Verify Firmware

Ledger Live verifies the device firmware automatically. Install updates only through Ledger Live and confirm all signatures.

Step 5 — Add Accounts

Using Ledger Live, install crypto apps for the assets you wish to manage. Create accounts for each asset type and verify addresses on-device before transactions.

Step 6 — Test Transaction

Send a small amount of crypto to ensure your setup works correctly. Confirm the recipient address on-device before sending.

Security Best Practices

Ledger wallets are designed so that private keys never leave the device. All signing operations are conducted on-device, mitigating exposure to malware.

Firmware & Software Integrity

Install only official firmware via Ledger Live. Verify signatures before updates. Keep both Ledger Live and your device firmware current for maximum security.

Recovery Phrase Handling

Store your recovery phrase securely. Use the provided recovery card or a metal backup plate. Never store it digitally or online.

Operational Security

Use trusted machines and avoid public networks for sensitive operations. Ensure your computer is free from malware. Always confirm transaction details on-device.

Start your Ledger setup securely
Visit Ledger.com/Start to guide you through the official onboarding or download Ledger Live to manage your crypto securely.

FAQ

  • Can Ledger Live work without a Ledger device? No — a Ledger hardware wallet is required for secure signing.
  • What if I lose my recovery phrase? Without your recovery phrase, access to funds is impossible. Store it securely offline.
  • Does Ledger collect my data? Ledger Live minimizes data collection. Optional analytics are anonymized.
  • How do I verify firmware? Ledger Live automatically checks firmware signatures during installation or update.