Welcome to the ultimate guide to Ledger.com/Start®, the official onboarding portal for your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crypto enthusiast, this complete walkthrough covers everything you must know — from setup and security to downloading ledger live desktop, managing your crypto, and using the Ledger ecosystem safely.
If you’re starting your crypto journey, always begin at https://www.ledger.com/start — this ensures you’re accessing verified instructions and software, and not a phishing or scam website.
What Is Ledger.com/Start®?
Ledger.com/Start® is the official setup and support hub provided by Ledger, designed to help users — new and returning — safely initialize their Ledger hardware wallets and install the official software they need. This portal provides step‑by‑step setup instructions, recommended downloads (like ledger live desktop and mobile apps), security best practices, and access to Ledger Support and tutorials directly from the source.
This site minimizes risk by directing users only to legitimate software downloads and avoiding unofficial installers — a critical protection against phishing and crypto asset theft attempts.
Why Start at Ledger.com/Start®?
Starting at ledger.com/start offers several essential benefits:
✅ You’ll download ledger live or ledger live desktop directly from the official source. ✅ You’ll avoid fake installers and scam sites. ✅ You’ll get personalized setup instructions for your specific Ledger device model. ✅ You’ll access official security guides, support articles, and troubleshooting resources. ✅ You’ll be directed to the correct versions of Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
Important: Scam sites often mimic Ledger’s interface and domain names. Always check the URL for ledger.com/start and the secure lock icon in the browser before downloading anything.
Step‑by‑Step Guide — How to Use Ledger.com/Start®
Here’s a detailed, step‑by‑step walkthrough to get you up and running with your Ledger wallet.
Open your browser and go to https://www.ledger.com/start . This is the only site you should use to begin setup, download ledger live desktop, or access official guides and support.
You’ll see options to choose your Ledger device model, such as:
Ledger Nano S Plus
Ledger Nano X
Ledger Stax (These options may vary over time but are always shown on the Start page.)
Once you select your device, the next step is to download Ledger Live — the official companion application for managing your crypto assets, installing blockchain apps, and updating your device.
Ledger Live is available in two major forms:
📌 Ledger Live Desktop — A full‑featured desktop app for Windows, macOS, and Linux. 📌 Ledger Live Mobile — Designed for Android and iOS devices via official app stores.
⚠️ Always download ledger live desktop directly from Ledger.com/Start® — never from search ads, unofficial link redirects, or unknown third‑party websites. This protects you from malware and counterfeit applications.
After you download the ledger live desktop installer from the official site:
Run the Installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Follow the setup wizard’s prompts on your computer.
Allow necessary permissions when requested.
Once installed, open Ledger Live.
When Ledger Live launches, it will prompt you to either set up a new device or restore an existing wallet. This application will be your primary interface for secure crypto management, including buying, selling, staking, portfolio monitoring, sending/receiving assets, installing blockchain apps, and updating firmware.
With Ledger Live open:
Connect your Ledger hardware via USB (or Bluetooth for supported devices like Nano X).
Select “Set up as new device” if the device is brand new.
Choose “Restore device” if you have an existing recovery phrase.
Keep your device connected and follow on‑screen instructions.
Your hardware wallet will prompt you directly to create a PIN — typically 4 to 8 digits long. This PIN protects access to your Ledger device, even if it’s lost or stolen.
⚠️ Choose a unique PIN that’s hard to guess but memorable for you. Never store it digitally or share it.
A 24‑word recovery phrase is your only backup to restore access to your crypto if your Ledger device is lost or damaged. It’s critically important:
✔ Write down your recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheets. ✔ Store this phrase offline — never take photos, screenshots, or store digitally. ✔ Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase online or via email.
This offline backup ensures only you control your keys — a core principle of self‑custody in crypto.
After setup:
Open Ledger Live
Go to the Accounts tab
Click Add account
Choose the crypto you want to manage (BTC, ETH, SOL, etc.)
Ledger Live will synchronize your accounts and allow you to send, receive, stake, and track assets — all while keeping your private keys securely stored within the Ledger device.
Security Best Practices
Protecting your crypto begins with setup. Follow these critical safety tips:
✔ Only Use Ledger.com/Start®
Downloading ledger live or ledger live desktop from anywhere else exposes you to scam apps and malware.
✔ Never Share Your Recovery Phrase
Ledger will never ask for your 24‑word phrase in messages or online forms.
✔ Verify URL & Certificate
Always check ledger.com/start for the secure lock icon in your browser.
✔ Keep Firmware Updated
Use ledger live desktop to install the latest firmware for enhanced security and compatibility.
✔ Avoid Public Computers and Wi‑Fi
Manage your wallet in a safe environment to minimize security risks.
Following these principles helps you protect your digital assets against scams and network threats.
Final Thoughts
Ledger.com/Start® is more than a download page — it’s your trusted gateway into the secure world of crypto self‑custody. By following official setup guidance and downloading ledger live desktop only from ledger.com/start, you dramatically reduce risk and get full access to Ledger’s powerful tools and support system.
Whether you’re securing Bitcoin, managing a multi‑asset portfolio, staking tokens, or interacting with decentralized applications, Ledger Live — backed by your Ledger device — gives you control and peace of mind.
Begin your journey safely at https://www.ledger.com/start today, and ensure you’re always using official software and support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Ledger.com/Start®? A1: It’s the official onboarding and setup portal that guides you through Ledger device activation and safe downloading of Ledger Live.
Q2: What is Ledger Live? A2: Ledger Live is the official software for managing your crypto portfolio with your Ledger device.
Q3: Do I need Ledger Live Desktop? A3: Yes — it’s necessary for full device management, firmware updates, and account setup.
Q4: Can I manage crypto without Ledger Live? A4: Some functions may work via third‑party integrations, but Ledger Live gives official support and full features.
Q5: Where should I download Ledger Live? A5: Only from https://www.ledger.com/start .
Q6: What if I lose my Ledger device? A6: You can restore accounts using your 24‑word recovery phrase in Ledger Live.
Q7: Is Ledger Live safe? A7: Yes — when downloaded from the official site and used with your Ledger hardware.
Q8: Can Ledger Live track my portfolio? A8: Yes — it provides real‑time tracking and analytics of your assets.
Q9: Does Ledger Live support staking? A9: Yes — many Proof‑of‑Stake tokens can be staked via Ledger Live.
Q10: Are my private keys stored in Ledger Live? A10: No — private keys remain securely in your Ledger device.