Official® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started®

gdrd

— 4 min read

Introduction

Ledger.com/Start is the official entry point for setting up a Ledger® hardware wallet. It guides users through the initial configuration process using Ledger Live, the official application developed by Ledger for managing devices and digital assets. Starting from the correct page is essential, as hardware wallet setup involves critical security steps that should only be performed with authentic software and verified instructions.

This guide explains what Ledger.com/Start is, why it matters, and how the official setup process works—helping users understand each stage while maintaining full control of their digital assets.

What Is Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/Start is the official getting-started page for Ledger hardware wallets. It directs users to the correct version of Ledger Live and provides step-by-step guidance for:

  • Setting up a new Ledger device
  • Installing or updating official firmware
  • Creating and confirming a recovery phrase
  • Securing the device with a PIN
  • Connecting to Ledger Live for asset management

Using the official start page helps reduce the risk of phishing attempts, counterfeit applications, or misleading setup instructions.

Why Starting at the Official Page Matters

Hardware wallets are designed to protect private keys by keeping them offline. However, the setup process itself is a critical moment. If users download unofficial software or follow incorrect instructions, security can be compromised.

Starting at Ledger.com/Start ensures that:

  • Software downloads are authentic
  • Firmware updates are verified
  • Recovery information is generated securely on the device
  • Best practices are followed from the beginning

Ledger does not require account registration to create a wallet, and private keys are never shared with the company or stored online.

Downloading Ledger Live

From Ledger.com/Start, users are guided to install Ledger Live, the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. Ledger Live is available for:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Mobile devices (iOS and Android)

Ledger Live acts as the interface between the user and the hardware wallet. While balances and transaction history are displayed in the app, sensitive operations such as key generation and transaction signing occur on the device itself.

Official link 1:
Ledger.com/Start — Official Ledger setup page

Connecting Your Ledger Device

After installing Ledger Live, users connect their Ledger hardware wallet to their computer or mobile device using the supplied cable. Ledger Live detects the device and checks whether it is genuine and whether the firmware is up to date.

During this stage:

  • The device screen provides clear instructions
  • Ledger Live verifies compatibility
  • No private data is shared or uploaded

Users are prompted to choose whether they are setting up a new device or restoring an existing wallet.

Installing and Updating Firmware

Firmware is the operating system of the hardware wallet. If the device is new or running outdated firmware, Ledger Live will guide users through the update process.

Key points about firmware updates:

  • Firmware is cryptographically signed
  • Installation requires confirmation on the device
  • Updates improve security and functionality
  • Users are warned not to disconnect the device during installation

Firmware updates are a normal part of long-term hardware wallet use and help protect against newly discovered threats.

Creating a New Wallet

When initializing a new device, the wallet is created directly on the hardware wallet. This process includes generating a recovery phrase (sometimes called a recovery seed).

Important characteristics of this step:

  • Recovery words are displayed only on the device screen
  • They are never shown in Ledger Live
  • They are never sent to Ledger or stored online

This design ensures that only the user has access to the information needed to recover the wallet.

Understanding the Recovery Phrase

The recovery phrase is the most important backup associated with a hardware wallet. It allows users to restore access to their assets if the device is lost, damaged, or replaced.

Best practices emphasized during setup include:

  • Writing the words down on paper
  • Storing them offline in a secure location
  • Never taking photos or screenshots
  • Never sharing the phrase with anyone

Ledger cannot recover a wallet if the recovery phrase is lost. Full control comes with full responsibility.

Verifying the Recovery Phrase

As part of the official setup process, Ledger Live asks users to verify their recovery phrase by confirming selected words. This step helps ensure that the backup was recorded correctly.

Verification:

  • Happens immediately during setup
  • Is performed using the device buttons
  • Does not expose the full phrase at once

Skipping verification increases the risk of losing access later, so the official process strongly recommends completing it.

Setting a PIN Code

To protect against unauthorized physical access, users are required to set a PIN code on the Ledger device.

The PIN:

  • Is entered directly on the device
  • Is required every time the device is connected
  • Can be changed later through Ledger Live

If the PIN is entered incorrectly multiple times, the device resets, requiring the recovery phrase to restore access.

Accessing Ledger Live After Setup

Once setup is complete, Ledger Live becomes the main dashboard for managing assets. Through the app, users can:

  • View balances
  • Send and receive cryptocurrencies
  • Install apps for different blockchain networks
  • Monitor transaction history

All transactions must be approved on the Ledger device itself, ensuring that nothing can be signed without physical confirmation.

Official link 2:
Ledger Live (ledger.com/ledger-live) — Official Ledger application

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Ledger Live supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and tokens, including major networks such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, as well as many others depending on device model and app availability.

Ledger regularly expands support through firmware and app updates. Users are informed of compatibility directly within Ledger Live.

Privacy and Data Considerations

Ledger hardware wallets are designed for self-custody. Ledger Live does not have access to private keys, and wallet creation does not require identity verification.

However, like most software, Ledger Live may collect limited technical data (such as app diagnostics) to improve performance. Users can review and manage these settings within the application.

Restoring an Existing Wallet

Ledger.com/Start also supports users who already have a recovery phrase and need to restore access.

The restoration process:

  • Requires the recovery phrase
  • Is performed securely via the device
  • Recreates the same wallet and addresses

This allows users to migrate to a new device without losing access to funds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The official start guide helps users avoid frequent errors, including:

  • Downloading Ledger Live from unofficial sites
  • Entering recovery words on a computer or website
  • Ignoring firmware update prompts
  • Storing recovery phrases digitally

Ledger emphasizes that no legitimate support agent will ever ask for a recovery phrase.

Keeping Your Device Secure Over Time

Getting started is only the first step. Long-term security includes:

  • Keeping firmware up to date
  • Protecting the recovery phrase
  • Verifying addresses on the device screen
  • Staying alert to phishing attempts

Ledger.com/Start and Ledger Live both provide ongoing guidance as part of the official ecosystem.

Who Should Use Ledger.com/Start?

Ledger.com/Start is recommended for:

  • First-time Ledger users
  • Users setting up a replacement device
  • Anyone restoring a wallet securely
  • Users verifying they are using official software

It is the safest way to begin using a Ledger hardware wallet.

Conclusion

Official® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started is the foundation of secure self-custody with Ledger hardware wallets. By guiding users through verified downloads, secure device initialization, and responsible backup practices, the official start page helps ensure that digital assets remain under the user’s control from day one.

Read more