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Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide to getting started with your Ledger hardware wallet using ledger.com/start — the official onboarding platform for Ledger users. Whether you are completely new to crypto or upgrading your security setup, this guide will walk you through every essential step. You’ll learn how to install Ledger Live, use Ledger Live Desktop, secure your assets, and manage your cryptocurrencies with confidence.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand how to:
Access ledger.com/start
Install ledger live on desktop and mobile
Set up your Ledger device securely
Use ledger live desktop
Connect to decentralized apps
Ensure long‑term security and backups
Let’s begin.
What Is Ledger.com/Start®?
ledger.com/start is the official starting point for all new Ledger device users. It serves as your launchpad to set up your hardware wallet and initialize Ledger Live, a secure companion app. This onboarding portal simplifies everything — from unboxing your device to installing applications and managing crypto. Ledger Support™ constantly updates the ledger.com/start page with the latest steps, firmware updates, and security guidelines to ensure you benefit from the most secure setup experience.
Why Use Ledger Wallets?
Ledger hardware wallets provide unmatched offline security for your private keys, protecting your digital assets against hackers, malware, and phishing attacks. Unlike software wallets that store keys online, Ledger devices keep keys in a secure element, a chip that isolates sensitive data from the internet.
Using ledger live and ledger live desktop together gives you an intuitive dashboard to:
Send and receive crypto
Track portfolio value
Manage multiple accounts
Install and remove app support for different blockchains
Interact with DeFi and NFTs
Step‑by‑Step Guide: From Ledger.com/Start to Setup Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start
Begin by navigating to ledger.com/start from any browser. This link directs you to the official Ledger onboarding page. Make sure you are connected to a stable internet connection.
Inside, you will be greeted with clear steps that guide you through downloading the official Ledger apps and firmware updates.
Step 2: Choose Your Device
Ledger currently supports multiple hardware wallets like Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. Each device has specific instructions.
At ledger.com/start, choose your model:
Ledger Nano S Plus — best for beginners
Ledger Nano X — includes Bluetooth and mobile support
As soon as you select a model, the page will dynamically display the correct setup instructions.
Step 3: Unbox and Connect Your Ledger Wallet
After choosing your device on ledger.com/start, unbox the Ledger wallet and connect it to your computer or mobile device using the provided USB cable.
Follow the on‑screen prompts:
Power on your Ledger
Choose a PIN code directly on the device
Write down your recovery phrase — this is your lifesaver if you lose the device
⚠️ Important: Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger Support™ will never ask you for this.
Step 4: Install Ledger Live
Once you’ve set up the physical device, the next step is to install ledger live.
What Is Ledger Live?
Ledger live is the official app that lets you manage your crypto securely. It’s available on desktop and mobile.
You can download it directly from the official Ledger site (linked on ledger.com/start) to ensure you get the genuine version.
Install Ledger Live Desktop
To install ledger live desktop:
Click the Ledger Live download link at ledger.com/start
Choose your operating system — Windows, macOS, or Linux
Download and install the app
Once installed, launch the app and follow the guided setup. You will pair your Ledger device by connecting it and entering your PIN.
Ledger Live Desktop automatically detects firmware updates and helps you install them safely via USB.
Understanding the Ledger Live Interface
After pairing your Ledger device with ledger live, you’ll see several key sections:
Dashboard
Shows your portfolio balance and recent activity.
Accounts
Add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported assets.
Manager
Install or uninstall applications on your Ledger hardware.
Send & Receive
Execute transactions securely with your device confirming each action.
Discover
Explore integrated services like staking, swaps, DeFi apps, and NFTs.
These tools make ledger live desktop a powerful portal to interact with your crypto securely.
Adding Accounts and Apps
Once you’re in ledger live, you should:
Go to Manager
Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you’ll use
Example: Bitcoin app for BTC
Ethereum app for ETH and ERC‑20 tokens
After installing apps, head to Accounts and click Add Account to begin managing your crypto assets.
Transacting Safely with Ledger Live
Sending and receiving crypto through ledger live desktop means your private key never leaves the Ledger device.
How Transactions Work:
You initiate a transaction in ledger live
The transaction request is sent to your Ledger device
You verify and approve it on‑device
The signed transaction is broadcast to the network
This ensures your keys remain truly secure.
Security Best Practices
As you work through ledger.com/start and ledger live, keep these security tips in mind:
Firmware updates improve security. Ledger Live Desktop alerts you when updates are needed.
Store your recovery phrase in multiple physical locations, safe from fire, water, or theft.
No legitimate service will ask for your seed phrase. Ledger Support™ reminds users of this regularly.
Always use ledger.com/start or links from ledger.com to download ledger live or firmware.
Connecting to DeFi and Web3
With ledger live installed, you can interact with decentralized applications (DApps) securely by connecting your Ledger through supported bridges like WalletConnect or Web3‑enabled browsers.
Always double‑check URLs to avoid phishing.
Recovering Your Wallet
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, you can recover your wallet using:
A new Ledger device
Your recovery phrase
At setup, ledger.com/start guides you to enter your recovery phrase on‑device securely.
Advanced Tips for Power Users
Once comfortable with the basics, explore:
Staking crypto directly through Ledger Live
Swapping assets inside Ledger Live
Interacting with DeFi protocols via Web3 connections
Your Ledger device keeps signing authority offline while you enjoy online apps.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure a smooth setup, avoid these errors:
Using unofficial links instead of ledger.com/start
Sharing your recovery phrase with anyone
Skipping firmware updates
Storing the recovery phrase digitally
Remember: security always comes first.
Final Thought
Getting started with your Ledger wallet at ledger.com/start sets the foundation for secure and confident crypto management. Installing ledger live, especially ledger live desktop, empowers you with a powerful interface to control your digital assets while keeping your private keys offline. By following the steps above — from setup to everyday transactions — you can enjoy the full strength of Ledger’s robust security ecosystem.
Your crypto journey should begin right, and ledger.com/start is where it all starts.
Frequently Asked Questions What is ledger.com/start?
It's the official Ledger onboarding page that guides you through setting up your Ledger wallet securely.
Why do I need ledger live?
Ledger Live is the official app for managing your crypto, tracking balances, and executing transactions.
Can I install ledger live desktop on any computer?
Yes, Ledger Live Desktop is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Is ledger live free to use?
Yes, ledger live is completely free and downloadable from the official site.
What do I do if I lose my Ledger device?
Use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device to regain access to your funds.
Can I interact with DeFi using Ledger?
Yes — you can connect via supported Web3 interfaces while using Ledger as your signing device.