Official guide — ledger.com/start — secure your crypto journey the right way
Welcome to the **Ledger Getting Started Hub** — your official starting point for setting up, securing, and using your Ledger hardware wallet. This guide is designed to walk you through every essential step from unboxing to managing crypto, with best practices that help you protect your assets.
Why begin at ledger.com/start? Because this is the trusted source for verified downloads, tutorials, firmware updates, and security advice. Many users get compromised due to fake installers, phishing sites, or skipping critical setup steps. Starting here ensures you follow the correct path.
Throughout this guide, we cover:
When your Ledger device arrives, verify that the box is sealed and untampered. Ledger typically uses an anti-tamper seal. Avoid using a device if that seal appears broken or suspicious. Only purchase from authorized retailers or directly from Ledger to reduce the risk of counterfeit units.
Inside the package, you should find:
Open your browser and go to **https://ledger.com/start**. This is the only safe place to download the Ledger Live application and follow the official setup. Always double-check you're on the correct domain (look for SSL lock, no typos). Avoid any “sponsored” or mirrored download sites.
Ledger Live is the companion software for your device. It lets you manage accounts, send and receive crypto, update firmware, and more. Download the version appropriate for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or your mobile (iOS, Android).
After downloading, run the installer:
Launch Ledger Live, then choose “Set up as new device” (or “Restore device” if you already have a recovery phrase). Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth if your model supports it). The app will guide you to:
Never photograph, screenshot, or type your recovery phrase into any digital device. Treat it like your key to all funds. Losing it or exposing it means losing full control of your assets.
In Ledger Live, navigate to the “Manager” tab to install support apps for each blockchain you plan to use (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). Once installed, go to “Accounts” and add those blockchains. You’ll be able to view balances, receive funds, and prepare transactions.
You can test with a small amount first to verify everything works as intended before sending large amounts.
Ledger Live acts as the user interface and management layer, but private keys never leave your hardware device. The device signs transactions internally and sends back only the result to the app. This architecture ensures that even if your computer or phone is compromised, your private keys remain safe.
Every time Ledger Live wants to perform a sensitive operation (e.g. send transaction, sign message), it prompts the device. You’ll verify the details on the device screen and confirm or reject. This “what you see is what you signed” model is central to Ledger’s security.
Ledger frequently releases firmware updates that enhance security, fix bugs, or add new features. Ledger Live will prompt you when updates are available. Always follow the instructions carefully and never interrupt the update process (e.g. power off the device mid-flash).
Similarly, apps for blockchains installed via the Manager section can be updated when new versions come out. Keeping everything up to date helps ensure compatibility with new developments in crypto ecosystems.
Ledger Live includes a “Genuine Check” functionality. This process verifies the cryptographic signature of your device to confirm it's authentic and not a tampered or counterfeit clone. It is recommended to run this check periodically, especially when first using a new device.
A recovery phrase (your 24 words) is the ultimate backup and key to your funds. Anyone with access to it can steal all your crypto. Do not store it digitally — no photos, no text files, no cloud notes.
Consider writing your phrase on multiple sheets or using a durable metal backup. Store them in separate, secure, geographically distinct locations to reduce risk of loss due to disaster.
Always confirm that the address and amount on the device screen match your intention before approving. Scammers sometimes try to manipulate display addresses in software — the device confirmation is your final safeguard.
Only download Ledger Live or firmware from **ledger.com/start**. Avoid clicking on links in suspicious emails or social media. Always verify the domain and SSL certificate. Phishing attempts may impersonate official communications — do not trust them.
Use a strong password for Ledger Live if supported. Lock your device and system when not in use. Avoid working on untrusted networks or public Wi-Fi when performing sensitive operations.
Use the original USB cable when possible. Some USB hubs or faulty cables may introduce connectivity problems or power issues. If your device doesn’t respond, try connecting directly to your computer’s USB port.
Once your setup is complete, you may test recovery by importing your phrase into another Ledger device or supported wallet (offline). This confirms your backup is accurate. Be extremely cautious when doing this and never expose your phrase in unsafe environments.
Below is a sample login form (for demonstration). In a real production environment, this would connect to a secure backend. Do **not** enter real recovery phrases or sensitive info in sample forms unless you trust the host.
If your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged, your funds are not lost—provided you have your recovery phrase. You can order a new Ledger and select “Restore device” in Ledger Live, then enter your 24-word seed to gain full access again. Always keep your recovery phrase safe and backed up.
No — Ledger Live is a companion interface that requires a physical Ledger device for signing and secure operations. Without the hardware wallet, you cannot approve transactions or manage private keys.
If a firmware update fails (for example, due to interruption), your device may enter recovery mode. Ledger Live or the Ledger website provides recovery tools to restore the device. Always follow instructions carefully and avoid disconnecting mid-update.
In general, using a high-quality powered USB hub is fine, but it can sometimes introduce connectivity issues. Many users report success with hubs. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} However, if your Ledger fails to connect, try using the original cable and direct USB port.
Yes. Ledger Live supports viewing and transferring NFTs (on supported chains). Also, via integrations and third‑party apps (e.g. wallet connectors, dApps), you can access DeFi and make transactions — all with your Ledger device confirming each action.