What is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the official initialization portal for all Ledger® hardware wallets, including Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, and Nano S devices. This comprehensive setup wizard provides new users with a guided, step-by-step process to securely configure their hardware wallet and begin their cryptocurrency journey with confidence.

The platform serves as the central hub for device setup, offering tailored instructions based on your specific Ledger® model and ensuring you follow security best practices from the very beginning of your hardware wallet experience.

Complete Setup Process at Ledger.com/start

1 Device Unboxing & Connection

Begin by unboxing your Ledger® device and connecting it to your computer via USB cable. Navigate to Ledger.com/start where the portal will detect your device model and provide specific instructions.

2 Ledger Live Download & Installation

The setup portal will guide you through the Ledger Live download process for your operating system. Ledger Live is the official companion application that manages your cryptocurrency assets and interacts with your hardware wallet.

3 Device Configuration

Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device PIN code and generate your 24-word recovery phrase. This is the most critical security step - write down your recovery phrase and store it securely offline.

4 Initial Ledger Login

Complete your first Ledger login by entering your PIN on the device and confirming access. This establishes the secure connection between your Ledger® device and Ledger Live application.

5 Application Installation

Install cryptocurrency applications onto your Ledger® device through Ledger Live. Each cryptocurrency requires its own application for secure transaction signing and management.

Ledger Live Platform Options

Ledger Live Desktop

The full-featured desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Offers complete portfolio management, staking, and exchange integration.

Ledger Live App

Mobile application for iOS and Android. Provides on-the-go access with Bluetooth connectivity for Ledger Nano X and USB for other models.

Web Interface

Accessible through Ledger.com for account management and support, though device operations require Ledger Live.

Key Features Accessible After Setup

Portfolio Management

Track all your cryptocurrency holdings in real-time with comprehensive charts, historical data, and performance analytics across your entire portfolio.

Secure Transactions

Send and receive cryptocurrencies with confidence, knowing every transaction requires physical confirmation on your Ledger® device.

Staking & Earning

Participate in staking programs directly through Ledger Live to earn rewards on your cryptocurrency holdings while maintaining self-custody.

Exchange Integration

Swap cryptocurrencies directly within Ledger Live using integrated exchange partners while maintaining control of your private keys.

Security Best Practices

Critical Security Reminder: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency assets. Never share it with anyone, never store it digitally, and keep multiple secure copies in different physical locations. Ledger® will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Always verify the authenticity of your Ledger® device during setup by checking the genuine check in Ledger Live. This ensures your device hasn't been tampered with and is running official Ledger® firmware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if Ledger.com/start doesn't recognize my device?

Ensure you're using the original USB cable, try different USB ports, make sure Ledger Live is installed and updated, and check that your device is unlocked. Restart both the application and your device if issues persist.

Can I skip the setup at Ledger.com/start if I'm an experienced user?

While experienced users can set up directly through Ledger Live, we recommend using Ledger.com/start to ensure you don't miss any critical security steps and have the latest firmware installed.

Do I need to use Ledger.com/start for an existing device?

No, Ledger.com/start is primarily for new device setup. For existing devices, use Ledger Live directly for management and regular Ledger Live login procedures.

What's the difference between Ledger Live Desktop and Ledger Live App?

Ledger Live Desktop offers the full feature set on computers, while the Ledger Live App provides mobile access with core functionality. Both maintain the same security standards and sync your portfolio data.

I lost my recovery phrase. Can I use Ledger.com/start to recover?

No, if you've lost your recovery phrase, you cannot recover your wallet. The setup portal is for initial configuration only. This highlights why securely storing your recovery phrase is absolutely critical.

Do I need to go through Ledger.com/start again after firmware updates?

No, routine firmware updates are handled through Ledger Live. You only need to use Ledger.com/start for the initial device setup or when performing a complete device reset.