Introduction
Welcome to Ledger.com/Start®, your official gateway to effortless and secure cryptocurrency management. This page is designed to guide you step by step through everything you need to know to begin using your Ledger hardware wallet securely, from unboxing to first transactions. We prioritize your safety and want to ensure that you follow best practices from day one.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Cryptocurrency usage involves risk, and you should perform your own due diligence.
Unboxing Your Ledger Device
Upon receiving your Ledger device, carefully inspect the packaging. The factory seal should be intact, free from signs of tampering. Ledger uses security seals to prevent counterfeit units — do not use a device if its packaging appears suspicious. Always order directly from Ledger’s official website or verified resellers.
Inside the box, you should find: the Ledger device (e.g. Ledger Nano S, Nano X, or other model), a USB cable, a recovery seed card, and quick start instructions. Do not discard the recovery card — it's essential for backing up access.
Setting Up for the First Time
1. Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the USB cable. 2. Go to Ledger.com/Start in your browser. You will be guided to download the Ledger Live application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux). 3. Install Ledger Live and open it. The app will walk you through firmware updates and initialization. 4. When prompted, choose “Initialize as new device” (unless restoring from an existing seed). 5. The device will ask you to set a PIN code — choose a secure PIN (avoid simple or repeating sequences).
Once your PIN is set, your device will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase (seed). Write down these 24 words in order on the recovery card. *Never* store your seed electronically (no screenshots, no digital files). Keep the written copy safe, offline, and away from prying eyes or environmental hazards.
Using Ledger Live and Device Interaction
Ledger Live acts as the interface between you and your Ledger device. It lets you add cryptocurrency accounts, view balances, send and receive assets, and install/uninstall apps on your hardware wallet.
After your device is set up, install the apps for the specific currencies you intend to use (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Each app uses space on the device, so only install what you need.
To receive funds, open the account in Ledger Live and verify the address on your device screen before sharing it. Always double-check — malware or screen overlays might present incorrect addresses.
When sending funds, Ledger Live will guide you through entering the recipient address and amount. Always verify the transaction details on the device display, not just in the software. The hardware device is your last line of protection.
Security Best Practices
- Keep your firmware and Ledger Live app updated. Updates often include security patches. - Do not reveal your recovery seed to anyone — Ledger staff, support, or others will never ask you to share it. - Beware of phishing. Always ensure you are on the official Ledger website (https). - Use strong, unique passwords for any associated accounts (e.g. email). - Consider purchasing a fireproof safe or safe deposit box for storing your seed card. - Enable two‑factor authentication (2FA) on all services tied to your crypto holdings (exchange accounts, email, etc.).
If your device is ever lost or damaged, you can recover your funds using the recovery seed on a new Ledger device or another compatible wallet. The seed is your ultimate backup.
Troubleshooting & Support
If Ledger Live does not detect your device, check your USB cable (use a data cable, not just charging). Try different USB ports. Ensure the device is powered on and unlocked (enter your PIN).
If an error occurs during firmware update, follow on‑screen instructions or unplug and restart the process.
Always check the official Ledger Support site for guides and FAQs. Avoid following unverified advice from forums or social media until confirmed.
Advanced Tips & Use Cases
- Use multiple independent wallets for diversification. - Consider using a “cold storage” approach by keeping your Ledger disconnected except when making transactions. - For high volume or long-term holdings, consider splitting your seed into multiple secure locations. - Use passphrase (if you understand it) cautiously — it adds extra security but also risk (losing passphrase means losing access).
Always practice with small amounts first before transacting large sums. Familiarize yourself with the UI, device confirmation flow, and recovery process.