Ledger.com/Start – Your Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Welcome to Ledger.com/Start

Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding hub for users who want to securely set up their Ledger hardware wallet and begin managing their digital assets with confidence. Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced investor, this guided setup experience ensures that your device is properly initialized, protected, and ready for use. By following the official start process, you reduce the risk of misconfiguration, security gaps, and exposure to fraudulent setup methods.

This page is designed to walk you through every essential step — from unboxing your device to installing the companion app and securing your recovery phrase. Taking the time to follow each step carefully will help you build a strong foundation for long-term crypto security.

Why Use the Official Start Page

Using the official start page ensures you are following verified instructions and downloading authentic software. Hardware wallets are security devices, and proper setup is critical. The start portal provides:

• Verified download links for the official companion app
• Step-by-step device initialization guidance
• Security best practices explained in plain language
• Built-in authenticity checks
• Safe wallet creation instructions
• Recovery phrase protection tips

Relying on unofficial tutorials or third-party downloads can expose you to phishing attempts or malicious software. The official onboarding flow helps you avoid these risks.

Before You Begin Setup

Before starting your device setup, make sure you have everything ready. Preparation reduces the chance of mistakes and interruptions during initialization.

You should have:

• Your Ledger hardware wallet device
• The USB cable included in the box
• A computer or smartphone with internet access
• A private and quiet environment
• A pen and the provided recovery sheets
• At least 20–30 minutes of uninterrupted time

Never begin setup using a pre-configured device or a recovery phrase that was already written down for you. A new device should always be initialized by you alone.

Step 1 – Download the Official Companion App

The first step at Ledger.com/start is downloading the official companion application used to manage your wallet and assets. This app allows you to install blockchain apps, create accounts, send and receive crypto, and monitor balances securely.

Download only from the official start page. Avoid app store search ads or links sent through messages or emails. After downloading:

• Install the application
• Launch it on your computer or phone
• Choose “Set up a new device”
• Select your device model when prompted

The app will guide you with on-screen instructions throughout the setup process.

Step 2 – Connect and Initialize Your Device

After installing the companion app, connect your Ledger device using the supplied cable. When powered on, the device will display setup options on its screen.

You will be prompted to:

• Start as a new device
• Create a PIN code
• Confirm your PIN code on the device

Choose a PIN that is hard to guess and not used elsewhere. Avoid birthdays, repeated digits, or simple patterns. Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access.

All PIN entry and confirmation happens on the hardware wallet itself, not on your computer keyboard.

Step 3 – Generate Your Recovery Phrase

One of the most important steps in the setup process is generating your recovery phrase. The device will create a unique 24-word recovery phrase that acts as the master key to your wallet and assets.

During this step:

• Words appear one by one on your device screen
• Write each word in order on the recovery sheet
• Double-check spelling carefully
• Confirm selected words when prompted

This phrase is the only backup of your wallet. If your device is lost, damaged, or reset, the recovery phrase is required to restore access.

Never:

• Take photos of the phrase
• Store it in cloud storage
• Type it into any website
• Share it with anyone
• Enter it into any app except during official recovery on a hardware device

Anyone with this phrase can control your assets.

Step 4 – Verify Device Authenticity

During onboarding, the companion app performs a genuine device check. This process confirms that your Ledger hardware wallet is authentic and has not been tampered with.

The verification runs automatically once your device connects to the app. You will see a confirmation message when the check passes. If authenticity cannot be confirmed, stop using the device and contact official support through proper channels.

This step protects you from modified or counterfeit hardware.

Step 5 – Install Blockchain Apps

After initialization and verification, you can install blockchain apps on your device. Each supported network requires its own app installation.

Examples include apps for:

• Bitcoin
• Ethereum
• Popular altcoins
• Token networks
• Layer-2 chains

You can install and remove apps as needed without affecting your assets. Removing an app does not delete funds — it only removes the interface for that network from the device.

Install only the apps you plan to use to keep device storage organized.

Step 6 – Add Accounts

Once apps are installed, you can add accounts within the companion application. Accounts allow you to receive, send, and track specific assets.

To add an account:

• Open the companion app
• Select “Add account”
• Choose the blockchain network
• Open that network app on your device
• Approve the connection

Your account will then appear in your portfolio dashboard, where balances and transaction history are displayed.

Step 7 – Receive and Send Crypto Safely

With your account created, you are ready to receive crypto. Always verify receiving addresses on the device screen before sharing them.

To receive funds:

• Choose the account
• Click receive
• Confirm the address on the hardware wallet screen
• Copy and share only after device confirmation

To send funds:

• Enter recipient details in the app
• Review transaction data carefully
• Confirm on the device screen

The device screen is your trusted display. Always rely on it — not your computer — for final verification.

Essential Security Best Practices

Security is not just about the device — it is also about your habits. Follow these best practices at all times:

• Never share your recovery phrase
• Never enter your recovery phrase online
• Beware of fake support messages
• Ignore urgent scare tactics
• Double-check website addresses
• Keep your PIN private
• Store your recovery sheet offline
• Consider using a secure physical storage method

No legitimate support agent will ever ask for your recovery phrase.

Troubleshooting and Help

If you encounter issues during setup, the official start portal links to troubleshooting guides and verified support resources. Common issues include connection errors, firmware update prompts, and app installation limits.

Most problems are resolved by:

• Updating the companion app
• Trying a different USB cable or port
• Restarting the device
• Updating firmware through the app
• Checking operating system compatibility

Use only official help resources when resolving issues.

Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/start is the safest and most reliable way to initialize your hardware wallet and begin your crypto security journey. By following the guided setup, writing down your recovery phrase correctly, verifying authenticity, and applying best practices, you create a strong defense for your digital assets.

Take your time, follow each step carefully, and never compromise on recovery phrase security. A careful setup today protects your portfolio for years to come.