Ledger.com/start – Complete Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

When someone enters Ledger.com/start, they’re usually beginning their crypto security journey. Ledger hardware wallets—whether the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X—are designed to store your private keys offline. This keeps them safe from online threats such as phishing, malware, exchange hacks, or compromised mobile apps. Unlike hot wallets, Ledger gives you physical control over your assets.

This guide explains every stage of the process: device setup, installing Ledger Live, creating accounts, sending and receiving crypto, managing Web3, and securing your recovery phrase. You’ll also learn the deeper fundamentals that beginners often skip—but absolutely shouldn’t.

The journey begins when you visit Ledger.com/start. This is the official onboarding page where you can download Ledger Live—the application that communicates with your hardware wallet. It acts as your portfolio dashboard, security checker, and transaction center.

You’ll also choose your device model for tailored instructions. The experience is designed so beginners can easily follow without confusion.

1. Power On

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone. The welcome screen appears, guiding you step-by-step.

2. Choose “Set Up as New Device”

This creates a brand-new wallet. If you’ve used a hardware wallet before, you may instead choose “Restore from Recovery Phrase.”

3. Create Your PIN

The PIN protects your wallet from physical access attacks. This is the first line of defense if someone steals your device.

4. Write Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto. Anyone with it can access your funds from any device. Ledger will show each word one at a time. Write it on the provided recovery sheets and never store it digitally.

Open Ledger Live and complete the device verification process. Ledger Live communicates with your Nano to validate its authenticity. After verification, you’ll be directed to install crypto apps—Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any other supported chain.

Once installed, these apps allow you to create accounts, send funds, and sign blockchain transactions. Ledger Live doesn’t hold your funds; it simply interacts with the blockchain on your behalf.

Accounts in Ledger Live represent different blockchains. You must add an account for each crypto you plan to store. Ledger supports a wide range of assets across Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, and many others.

The Ledger Live dashboard gives you a complete snapshot of your assets. You can view balances, price charts, transaction history, staking opportunities, and even participate in DeFi interactions through supported integrations.

Everything you do—from sending funds to approving smart contracts—requires confirmation on the hardware wallet. This ensures full control stays with you.

Receiving Crypto

To receive crypto, click “Receive” in Ledger Live, choose an account, and verify the address on the device screen. Only trust addresses shown directly on your Ledger hardware wallet.

Sending Crypto

To send crypto, enter the destination address, amount, and network fee. The Ledger device will display the transaction details for approval. Only after you physically confirm the transaction does it broadcast to the blockchain.

• Staking: Earn passive rewards on coins like ETH, DOT, ATOM, and others.
• DeFi Apps: Access decentralized exchanges, lending apps, and NFT platforms through integrations.
• Portfolio Tracking: Real-time value tracking of all assets.
• Secure Buy/Sell: Purchase crypto through Ledger-supported partners inside Ledger Live.

Model	Features	Connectivity	Best For
Ledger Nano S Plus	Large storage for apps, secure chip	USB-C	Desktop users
Ledger Nano X	Bluetooth support, larger screen	USB-C + Bluetooth	Mobile users & advanced traders

Is Ledger safe?

Yes. Ledger uses a secure element chip (SE) and offline private key storage, making it one of the safest wallet options available.

Can Ledger get hacked?

Not remotely. A hacker would need physical access to your device and your PIN. Your recovery phrase is the only way to access your wallet if the device is lost.

Where do I store my recovery phrase?

Store it offline, on paper or metal backup plates. Avoid digital storage like photos, emails, or cloud drives.

Ledger.com/start is more than a setup page—it’s the front door to your crypto self-custody experience. Your Ledger device gives you control over your digital wealth while protecting you from online attacks and vulnerabilities. Whether you're managing Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, or exploring DeFi, Ledger provides reliable, long-term security.

By following this guide, you’re now prepared to use your Ledger wallet confidently, understand how to protect your assets, and navigate the evolving world of blockchain technology.