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Ledger.com/start — Official Setup & Quickstart Guide

A step-by-step onboarding guide to install Ledger Live, initialize your Ledger hardware wallet, and manage crypto securely (private keys, recovery phrase, staking, NFTs, and DeFi).

Why start at Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is the ONLY verified portal to download Ledger Live and follow official onboarding instructions. Using it prevents falling for phishing sites or fake installers that steal recovery phrases or inject malware.

Hardware-backed Private keys stored offline in the Secure Element.
Wide asset support 5,000+ coins & tokens; NFT viewing; staking options.

Quick 6-minute checklist

  1. Open a browser and go to ledger.com/start (type it — avoid ads).
  2. Download Ledger Live for your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux) or mobile (iOS/Android).
  3. Initialize your Ledger device: choose a PIN and write the 24-word recovery phrase offline.
  4. Connect Ledger Live, install coin apps, and add accounts.
  5. Confirm a small receive/send test and verify addresses on the device screen.

Full setup — step by step

1. Download & verify

Get Ledger Live from ledger.com/start. Check the checksum if you want extra assurance the file wasn't tampered with.

2. Initialize device

Choose “Set up as new device”, create a PIN, and write the 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet — never store it digitally.

3. Install apps & add accounts

Through Ledger Live install coin apps (Bitcoin/Ethereum etc.) and add accounts to view balances and transact.

4. Confirm & transact

Always verify the receiving address on your Ledger device screen before approving any send — never trust the computer display alone.

Security checklist (do these)

  • Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start.
  • Never input your recovery phrase into a website, app, or cloud service.
  • Use the device screen to verify addresses and transaction amounts.
  • Store recovery phrase offline; consider a metal backup for fire/water resistance.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date via the official app.

Quick comparison: Ledger Nano X vs Nano S Plus

Feature Nano X Nano S Plus
BluetoothYes (mobile)No
Storage capacityMore appsEnough for common portfolios
BatteryYesNo
Best forMobile users & frequent tradersDesktop users & cost-conscious holders

Deeper concepts (plain language)

Private key — the secret that proves you own funds. It never leaves the Ledger device. Recovery phrase (seed) — the 24 words used to rebuild keys if you lose the device. Firmware — device software; keep it updated via Ledger Live to patch vulnerabilities. Staking/DeFi/NFTs — Ledger Live integrates with partners so you can stake tokens, access decentralized finance, and view NFTs while signing actions on-device.

Safety story (short)

Imagine your Ledger device as a locked safe and the recovery phrase as the only key. If you keep the key on a sticky note in your phone, anyone who accesses the phone can open the safe. Keep the key offline (paper or metal), and the safe (the device) stays secure even if your phone or computer is compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ledger Live free?
Yes — Ledger Live is free to download. You pay blockchain network fees when you send or swap assets.
Can I restore a lost device?
Yes — use your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger or a compatible wallet to recover funds.
Are NFTs supported?
Yes — Ledger Live supports viewing and managing NFTs on supported blockchains (e.g., Ethereum, Polygon).
Does Ledger ask for my seed?
Never. Ledger or any legitimate support will never ask for your recovery phrase. If asked, stop — it’s a scam.
“Ledger.com/start is the single safest place to begin — treat it like your verified door to custody.”
Need the quick link?
ledger.com/start

Final checklist — before you click “Finish”

Start safely. Own your keys. Protect your future. — ledger.com/start