Ledger.com/Start Setup: Your First Time Walkthrough

Setting up a Ledger hardware wallet using Ledger.com/Start is your gateway to secure, offline crypto storage. This guide walks you through every step, from downloading Ledger Live, initializing your device, creating your recovery seed, and using it to protect your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.

1. Why Use a Hardware Wallet & Ledger’s Security Model

Hardware wallets isolate your private keys from internet-connected devices, reducing the risk of malware or phishing. Ledger devices use a Secure Element chip—a tamper-resistant microprocessor certified against advanced attacks. All operations (like signing) happen inside that chip; keys never leave. The recovery seed is generated on-device, not via your computer. Optionally, Ledger offers Ledger Recover, a backup service you can choose, but full self-custody remains yours.

2. Download Ledger Live via Ledger.com/Start

1. Visit ledger.com/start.
2. Select the Ledger Live version for your OS or mobile.
3. Download and install it. (Pro tip: verify any provided signatures or checksums.)

3. Launch & Begin Setup

1. Open Ledger Live, click “Get started.”
2. Choose your device model.
3. Select “Set up as new device.”

4. Connect Ledger & Initialize

1. Plug your Ledger hardware wallet into your computer or phone.
2. Use the device buttons to navigate prompts.
3. Select “Set up as new device.”
4. Choose a PIN (typically 4–8 digits) and confirm it.

5. Write Down & Verify Your 24-Word Recovery Seed

This is your *only backup* to restore your wallet if your device is lost or broken.

1. The device will display each word one by one — write them on the recovery sheet, in order.
2. Double-check spelling and sequence. Never photograph or store digitally.
3. The device will ask you to verify certain words to confirm accuracy.
4. Finish — your device will show “setup complete” or “your device is ready.”

6. Finalize in Ledger Live & Add Accounts

1. Ledger Live should recognize your configured device.
2. Update firmware if prompted (only via official updates).
3. Go to “Accounts” → “+” → choose the crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
4. Install the corresponding app/module on your device (approve it on the device).
5. Ledger Live will detect public addresses and reflect balances.

7. Use: Receive, Send & Secure Routine

• For incoming funds: use “Receive” in Ledger Live, and always verify the address on your device’s screen.
• For outgoing: use “Send,” fill in destination and amount, then confirm and sign on the device.
• Transactions are signed securely offline; the host computer only broadcasts them.
• Disconnect the device when done—your crypto remains safe on the blockchain, not inside the device.

Security Tips & Best Practices

• Store your recovery phrase offline (paper or metal); avoid photos or digital backups.
• Never share your seed phrase with anyone.
• Be cautious about opting into Ledger Recover; it’s optional.
• Verify transaction details on your device screen to avoid address-substitution attacks.
• Keep firmware updated through trusted sources only.
• Create geographically separated backups of your seed (in secure, secure places).
• Protect your PIN secretly — no link between PIN and seed location.

FAQs (Common Questions)

Q1: What exactly is Ledger.com/Start and why use it?

Ledger.com/Start is the official portal Ledger uses to guide users through obtaining Ledger Live, initializing the hardware wallet, and safely starting their crypto journey.

Q2: How do I set up Ledger.com/Start / Ledger Live?

Visit ledger.com/start, download Ledger Live, launch it, choose “Set up new device,” and follow the on-screen instructions while your Ledger is connected.

Q3: What is the recovery seed and how does it work?

The device will generate a 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase (seed) on-device. That seed encodes your master key and is used to restore all accounts in case you lose the device.

Q4: If someone steals my Ledger device, can they access my crypto?

No. Without your PIN and your recovery seed, they cannot access keys or transfer funds. The Secure Element ensures the private key never leaves the device.

Q5: What is a Secure Element and why is it important?

A Secure Element is a tamper-resistant chip that protects cryptographic secrets. Ledger uses it to generate, store, and use private keys in isolation, thwarting physical or side-channel attacks.

Q6: Should I opt into Ledger Recover?

Ledger Recover is an optional backup service that shards an encrypted copy of your seed phrase to backup providers. Many advanced users prefer to retain sole self-custody by keeping the seed offline.