Ledger.com/start – Begin Your Secure Crypto Journey | Ledger®
Cryptocurrencies have revolutionized the financial world, offering users unprecedented control over their assets. Yet, with great control comes great responsibility. Security is paramount, and that's where Ledger®, a pioneer in crypto hardware wallets, shines. Whether you're new to crypto or an experienced investor, Ledger.com/start is your official starting point for a secure, reliable, and user-friendly onboarding experience.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting started with your Ledger hardware wallet. From unboxing to setting up and securing your assets using Ledger Live, this article ensures you're well-equipped to manage your digital wealth with confidence.
Why Choose Ledger?
1. Industry-Leading Security
Ledger wallets feature certified secure elements (CC EAL5+)—the same technology used in passports and credit cards. This hardware-based security ensures your private keys never leave the device, insulating them from online threats like malware or phishing.
2. Full Ownership of Your Crypto
With Ledger, you own your private keys. Unlike exchanges where you rely on third-party security, Ledger empowers you to be the sole custodian of your digital assets.
3. Ledger Live Integration
Ledger Live is an all-in-one platform to buy, sell, stake, swap, and manage your cryptocurrencies. It seamlessly integrates with your Ledger device, offering convenience without compromising on security.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ledger.com/Start
Getting started with your Ledger wallet is a straightforward process. Here’s a complete walkthrough:
Step 1: Go to Ledger.com/start
Visit https://www.ledger.com/start. This is the official Ledger setup portal. Always verify the URL to avoid phishing sites.
Here, you'll be guided to:
- Choose your Ledger device model (Nano X, Nano S Plus, etc.)
- Download the Ledger Live app
- Access video tutorials and safety checklists
Step 2: Unbox Your Ledger Device
Inside your Ledger package, you'll find:
- Your Ledger hardware wallet
- USB-C or USB cable (depending on the model)
- Recovery sheet (DO NOT share this)
- Keychain accessories and instruction manual
Verify the device is genuine and has not been tampered with. Ledger devices come in tamper-proof packaging.
Step 3: Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is available for:
- Windows, macOS, and Linux
- iOS and Android (for Ledger Nano X via Bluetooth)
Visit the download section from Ledger.com/start and install the latest version of Ledger Live.
Important: Only download Ledger Live from the official website to avoid counterfeit versions.
Step 4: Set Up Your Ledger Wallet
- Connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone via USB or Bluetooth.
- Follow the on-screen instructions on both the device and Ledger Live.
- Choose “Set up as new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you already have one.
- Create a PIN code (4 to 8 digits) on the device.
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided sheet.
Step 5: Verify Recovery Phrase
Ledger will ask you to confirm selected words from your recovery phrase. This ensures you’ve written it down correctly.
Tip: Store your recovery sheet in a fireproof, waterproof place. Consider using a steel backup like Cryptosteel.
Ledger Live Dashboard Overview
Once your device is set up, the Ledger Live interface will act as your command center.
Key Features:
- Portfolio Overview: Track your asset value in real-time.
- Accounts: Manage multiple wallets for various cryptocurrencies.
- Send/Receive: Easily transfer crypto with secure confirmations.
- Buy/Sell Crypto: Integrated with partners like MoonPay and Wyre.
- Swap Assets: Convert coins directly without using exchanges.
- Staking: Earn rewards on assets like ETH, ATOM, and SOL.
Adding Crypto Accounts
To start managing assets:
- Open Ledger Live and click “Accounts”
- Select “Add account”
- Choose your cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
- Follow prompts to sync with your device
Each account is securely tied to your Ledger hardware wallet, ensuring offline storage of private keys.
Sending & Receiving Crypto
Receiving:
- Click “Receive”
- Choose the account (e.g., ETH)
- Verify the wallet address on your Ledger screen
- Share the address for incoming transfers
Sending:
- Click “Send”
- Enter recipient’s address and amount
- Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device
Buying Crypto via Ledger Live
Ledger Live supports in-app purchases of crypto using:
- Credit/Debit Cards
- Bank Transfers
- Apple Pay (on supported devices)
Supported Providers: Coinify, MoonPay, Ramp, and more
Once purchased, the crypto is deposited directly into your Ledger-protected wallet, not a third-party exchange.
Staking with Ledger
Earn passive income by staking supported assets securely.
Supported Coins Include:
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Polkadot (DOT)
- Cosmos (ATOM)
- Tezos (XTZ)
- Solana (SOL)
Staking through Ledger Live ensures you maintain custody while delegating to a validator.
Restore Your Wallet (If You Lose Your Device)
If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or stolen:
- Get a new Ledger device
- Choose “Restore from recovery phrase”
- Enter your 24-word seed phrase
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone—even Ledger will never ask for it.
Ledger Security Tips
- Buy only from Ledger.com or authorized resellers
- Never share your recovery phrase
- Beware of phishing websites and emails
- Use a strong PIN
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date
Ledger Nano X vs Nano S Plus
FeatureNano XNano S PlusConnectivityUSB & BluetoothUSB OnlyMobile SupportYesNoApp StorageUp to 100 appsUp to 100 appsBatteryYesNoPriceHigherMore Affordable
Choose based on your mobility needs and budget. Both offer identical security levels.
Common FAQs
Q: What is Ledger Live used for?
Ledger Live is your companion app to manage assets, track balances, send/receive funds, and interact with dApps while maintaining hardware-level security.
Q: Is Ledger wallet safe?
Yes. Ledger wallets use secure element chips and are certified by ANSSI (French cybersecurity agency), offering top-tier protection against digital attacks.
Q: Can I use Ledger without a computer?
Yes, if you own a Ledger Nano X, you can pair it via Bluetooth with the Ledger Live mobile app.
Q: What if I forget my PIN?
You can reset the device and restore using your 24-word recovery phrase.
Advantages of Using Ledger
- Cold Storage: Keeps private keys offline
- Multi-Asset Support: Supports over 5,500 coins & tokens
- dApp Connectivity: Connect to Web3 platforms like MetaMask, Uniswap, etc.
- Ongoing Development: Frequent updates, security patches, and new features
Ledger and Web3: The Future of Self-Custody
Ledger doesn’t just help you store your assets—it’s your gateway to the decentralized internet. With Web3 integrations, you can:
- Connect securely to DeFi apps
- Access NFT marketplaces
- Sign smart contracts safely
Through Ledger Extension (browser extension) and Ledger Live, you interact with dApps while keeping your private keys secure.
Ledger Recover (Optional Backup Service)
Ledger now offers Ledger Recover, a paid opt-in service that allows users to back up their recovery phrase using a trusted 3-party encrypted system.
⚠️ Use only if you fully understand the trade-offs. It's not mandatory.Conclusion: Start Your Crypto Journey the Right Way
Using Ledger.com/start as your launchpad ensures your first step into crypto is both secure and seamless. With unmatched hardware security, an intuitive software interface, and wide ecosystem support, Ledger is the gold standard for crypto self-custody.
Whether you're buying your first Bitcoin or managing a multi-chain portfolio, Ledger gives you the tools and confidence to take control of your digital assets.
Quick Setup Recap
✅ Visit: Ledger.com/start
✅ Download Ledger Live
✅ Initialize your device
✅ Write down your 24-word recovery phrase
✅ Start managing crypto securely