Ledger.com/start is the official website where users can begin setting up their Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger wallets, such as the Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, and Ledger Stax, are physical devices made to store cryptocurrency private keys securely offline. The purpose of these wallets is to protect digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies from hackers, malware, and online theft. Because the private keys are stored inside the secure chip of the Ledger device and not connected to the internet, it is one of the safest ways to manage crypto.

When you purchase a new Ledger wallet, it is important to check that it is genuine. A real Ledger package includes the device, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and a quick start guide. Ledger never provides a pre-written recovery phrase. If you receive a device that already includes a recovery phrase, it could be fake or tampered with, and you should not use it. The 24-word recovery phrase must always be created by you directly on your Ledger device. This recovery phrase acts as your only backup, so if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can recover your wallet using those 24 words. Because the recovery phrase gives full access to your funds, it must always be kept private, written down, and stored safely offline. Never take a photo of it or save it on a computer or phone.

To begin setting up your Ledger device, go to Ledger.com/start using your web browser. Always type the URL manually to ensure you are visiting the official Ledger website. There are many phishing sites that imitate Ledger, so double-check the address before proceeding. On the Ledger.com/start page, you can choose your device and download Ledger Live, the official application used to manage your Ledger wallet. Ledger Live works on computers (Windows, macOS, and Linux) and mobile devices (iOS and Android). It lets you send and receive cryptocurrency, check balances, install blockchain apps, and view your portfolio — all while keeping your private keys safe on your Ledger hardware wallet.

After downloading and installing Ledger Live, open the application and click “Get Started.” You will be asked whether you want to set up a new device or restore an existing wallet. If this is your first time using a Ledger, select “Set up as new device.” Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable, or connect via Bluetooth if you have a Ledger Nano X. The device screen will guide you through each step, and Ledger Live will show matching instructions on your computer or phone.

The first step is to choose a PIN code. This PIN protects your wallet if someone tries to use your device without permission. You will enter this PIN each time you use your Ledger. If the wrong PIN is entered three times, the device resets to protect your crypto. Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess.

Next, your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is extremely important. It is the only way to recover your wallet if your Ledger device is lost or damaged. Carefully write down all 24 words in the exact order on the recovery sheet provided in the box. Double-check your spelling and make sure the words are in the correct sequence. Ledger will ask you to confirm a few words to ensure accuracy. Never store your recovery phrase on a phone, computer, or cloud service, and never share it with anyone — not even with Ledger’s customer support. Anyone who has your recovery phrase can access your cryptocurrency.

Once you finish writing and confirming your recovery phrase, the initial setup is complete. Open Ledger Live and connect your device. The software will verify your Ledger’s authenticity and may suggest a firmware update. Keeping your device updated is very important for security and functionality. After that, you can install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each blockchain requires a separate app — for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. You can install these apps in the “My Ledger” section of Ledger Live.

After installing apps, you can add accounts for each cryptocurrency. Ledger Live will show your balance, transaction history, and other details. To receive crypto, click “Receive,” choose your account, and check that the address shown on Ledger Live matches the one on your Ledger device screen. Always verify the address directly on the device, as this ensures it has not been altered by malware. To send crypto, click “Send,” enter the recipient’s address and amount, and confirm the transaction on your Ledger device. Physical confirmation on the device ensures your funds cannot be moved without your permission, even if your computer or phone is compromised.

For ongoing safety, never share your PIN or recovery phrase. Only download Ledger Live from the official website at Ledger.com/start. Keep your recovery sheet in a safe place, such as a fireproof or waterproof container. Regularly update both Ledger Live and your device’s firmware. If your Ledger device is ever lost or stolen, you can restore your wallet using the 24-word recovery phrase. Remember that your cryptocurrency is stored on the blockchain, not on the Ledger itself — the device simply secures the private keys needed to access your coins.

Ledger.com/start provides clear, step-by-step instructions for every part of this process. Following those instructions ensures your setup is safe, your private keys are protected, and your digital assets remain secure. Using a Ledger device helps you take full control of your cryptocurrency and reduces the risks that come from storing crypto online or on exchanges. The phrase “not your keys, not your coins” means that if you don’t control your private keys, you don’t truly control your crypto. With Ledger, you hold your own keys, which means you hold your own coins.

By following the steps at Ledger.com/start, users can confidently set up their hardware wallet, protect their recovery phrase, install the apps they need, and manage their assets safely. A Ledger device, paired with Ledger Live, gives peace of mind by keeping private keys offline, away from hackers, and completely under your control.