Ledger.com/start — Get Started with Your Ledger Device

Welcome: Why Ledger.com/start matters

This guide at Ledger.com/start gives straightforward instructions for anyone unboxing a Ledger device for the first time. You’ll learn how to install, secure, and use your hardware wallet — plus best practices to protect your recovery phrase and avoid phishing attempts.

Quick Overview

A Ledger hardware wallet stores cryptographic keys offline. Setting it up involves five essential phases: unbox, initialize, write down your recovery phrase, install apps, and perform a small test transaction. Follow each step carefully — the security of your funds depends on it.

Step 1 — Unbox and Inspect

Check seals and accessories (H5)

Only proceed if the Ledger packaging is sealed and shows no signs of tampering. Make sure the device, USB cable, and recovery card are included.

Step 2 — Initialize Your Device

Power on & choose a PIN

Turn on the device and create a PIN you’ll remember. Never share this PIN. This is the first layer of physical protection for your Ledger device.

Step 3 — Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Write it down, offline

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the ultimate backup. Write it on the provided recovery card — do not store it digitally or take photos. Treat the phrase like gold.

Step 4 — Install Ledger Live & Apps

Download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start

Install Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile from the official download link at Ledger.com/start. Inside Ledger Live, install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) to manage specific assets.

Step 5 — Test with a Small Transaction

Send a small amount first

Before moving large balances, send a small test transaction to confirm everything is functioning correctly and the address shown on the device matches Ledger Live.

Best Practices & Safety Tips

Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
Only download software from Ledger.com/start — avoid third-party installers or links from emails.
Keep backups of your recovery phrase in separate secure locations.
Enable PIN attempts limits and consider a metal backup plate for long-term storage.

Example Verification (H4)

An easy verification step is to compare the public address displayed on your Ledger device with the address shown in Ledger Live. They must match exactly before sending funds.

  // Example conceptual steps (no command-line needed)
  1. Open Ledger Live on your PC or mobile.
  2. Connect your Ledger device via USB or Bluetooth.
  3. Unlock using your PIN on the device.
  4. Open the relevant account in Ledger Live; confirm the address on-device.

Important: Ledger.com/start is the canonical starting point recommended in this guide — always verify URLs and avoid links sent by unknown sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

If you lose it, your funds are at risk. There is no way to recover a lost recovery phrase. Transfer assets to a new wallet if you still control the device and create a fresh recovery phrase immediately.

Can Ledger Live be installed on mobile?

Yes — Ledger Live is available for iOS and Android. Always install from official app stores or the official download page at Ledger.com/start.

Conclusion

Getting started with a Ledger device is straightforward when you follow the steps above. Start at Ledger.com/start, unbox carefully, create a strong PIN, and write down your recovery phrase offline. Install Ledger Live, add apps for the coins you hold, and always perform a small test transaction before transferring large sums. Following these steps will help you secure your crypto with confidence. Remember: your recovery phrase is your lifeline — protect it like you would protect valuables in the physical world.