Ledger.com/start — Setup, Security & Smart Use for Ledger Hardware Wallets

A hands-on, beginner-to-intermediate guide that walks you from unboxing to confident self-custody using Ledger devices and Ledger Wallet™ (formerly Ledger Live).

Quick facts

Nano S Plus • Nano X • Gen5

Manage 1,000s of assets via Ledger Wallet™.

Why Ledger.com/start matters

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal that guides you to download the Ledger Wallet app, initialize your Ledger hardware device, and follow the safe, step-by-step flow for creating a hardware-backed crypto wallet. Using the official start page reduces phishing risk and ensures you install authentic firmware and companion software.

What Ledger does for your crypto

Ledger hardware wallets store your private keys inside a certified secure element (a tamper-resistant chip). The device signs transactions offline so your keys never expose to the internet — this is the essence of cold storage and self-custody.

Ledger Wallet™ (formerly Ledger Live)

Ledger Wallet™ is the official desktop & mobile app that pairs with your Ledger device. It lets you install apps on the device, add accounts, send/receive assets, stake, swap, and track portfolio performance in one place. If an asset isn't supported directly in Ledger Wallet™, third-party wallets can still be used alongside your device.

Exact steps to set up via Ledger.com/start

1 — Go to ledger.com/start manually

Type the URL instead of clicking search results or ads. This reduces the chance of landing on fake download pages that ask for your recovery phrase.

2 — Download Ledger Wallet™ (desktop or mobile)

Choose the official app for your OS. Ledger's support pages provide platform-specific instructions for macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.

3 — Connect your Ledger device and follow on-screen prompts

Choose to set up a new device or restore from a recovery phrase. The device display will show each critical confirmation so you can verify addresses securely.

4 — Create a PIN and write down your recovery phrase

The 24-word mnemonic (or alternative recovery options for newer devices) is the only backup to recover funds. Write it in ink, store offline, and consider metal backups for fire/water protection.

5 — Install apps for the coins you want to manage

Inside Ledger Wallet™, install the coin-specific applications (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Ledger supports thousands of assets; for anything not listed you can pair with compatible third-party wallets.

6 — Verify firmware & app updates only from Ledger

Firmware updates are digitally signed; confirm details on your device screen before approving. This prevents malicious firmware installations.

Ledger models — quick comparison

Model	Key features
Nano S Plus	USB-C, compact, supports many assets, certified secure element.
Nano X	Bluetooth for mobile, larger app capacity, certified secure element.
Gen5 (newer signer)	E-ink or larger screen concepts, alternative recovery UX and added authenticator features (keep an eye on official specs).

How many coins are supported?

Ledger devices and Ledger Wallet™ support thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens directly, while third-party wallets expand compatibility even further. If you're researching a specific altcoin, check the official supported-assets page before relying on a workflow.

Security alert — common scams & how to avoid them

There have been active campaigns distributing fake Ledger apps (notably on macOS) that replace the real Ledger Wallet, prompt false errors, and ask for recovery phrases — a direct theft vector. Always download Ledger Wallet™ only from ledger.com/start and never enter your recovery phrase into any app or website. If a program ever asks for your 24 words, stop immediately — it's a scam.

Practical backup checklist

Write your recovery phrase on paper and a metal backup.
Store copies in geographically separate, secure locations.
Use a passphrase (optional) for hidden wallet layers.

Daily-use rules

Verify receiving addresses on your device screen before sending.
Only approve transactions you initiated.
Keep device firmware and apps up to date via official channels.

Quick FAQ

Q: Can I recover my funds if I lose my Ledger device?
A: Yes — with your recovery phrase you can restore accounts on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.

Q: Is Ledger Wallet™ safe to use on Mac/Windows?
A: Yes — but only download the app from ledger.com/start and follow OS install guidance to avoid fake installers.

Q: Are Bluetooth Ledger devices safe?
A: Devices like Nano X use Bluetooth for convenience; security design keeps private keys in the secure element and separate from the wireless link. Always follow Ledger's guidelines when pairing.

Start safe, stay secure

Visit ledger.com/start, download the official Ledger Wallet™, and follow the device prompts to create a PIN and backup your recovery phrase. Treat your recovery as the master key it is — offline, private, and protected. Proper setup and habits turn a Ledger device into a resilient fortress for your crypto.