Ledger.com/Start® — set up your Ledger hardware wallet
Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger®®
Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet, connecting your device, installing the required wallet software, and beginning to manage digital assets. The setup process is designed to help new users move through the essential steps before using their device for everyday crypto management. Ledger’s current setup page provides instructions and access to the official Ledger Wallet app, which is the current name for the application formerly known as Ledger Live.
Begin Your Ledger Setup
Getting started with a hardware wallet involves more than simply connecting a device. You need to initialize the wallet, create a secure PIN, protect your recovery information, and connect the device with the appropriate Ledger software.
The first step is to visit the official Ledger.com/start page rather than relying on advertisements, unofficial downloads, or links from unknown sources. You can access the official setup guide here: Ledger.com/start
Once there, follow the instructions displayed for your particular Ledger device. The exact screens and options can vary depending on the hardware model and software version.
Install the Official Ledger Wallet App
The Ledger Wallet application provides the software environment used to interact with your Ledger hardware wallet. It is available for supported desktop and mobile operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
For safety, download the application directly from Ledger's official website. The official download page is available here:
Official Ledger Wallet Download
After installation, connect your Ledger device and follow the instructions shown in the application. Depending on your device and setup, you may be guided through initialization, pairing, account creation, or restoration.
Create and Protect Your PIN
During setup, your Ledger device will guide you through creating a PIN. This PIN helps prevent unauthorized access to the physical device.
Choose a PIN that you can remember but that other people cannot easily guess. Never disclose your PIN to another person, particularly someone contacting you unexpectedly and claiming to represent Ledger.
The setup process should always be completed directly on your Ledger device and through official Ledger software.
Your Secret Recovery Phrase Matters
One of the most important parts of setting up a Ledger device is protecting your Secret Recovery Phrase. Ledger explains that this phrase acts as a backup for the private keys associated with a wallet. Anyone who obtains the phrase may potentially gain access to the associated crypto assets.
Write the phrase down carefully when your device provides it. Keep it offline and in a secure location. Never enter your recovery phrase into a website, message, computer, or mobile application simply because someone tells you to do so. Ledger specifically warns users about fake applications and phishing attempts designed to obtain recovery phrases.
Install the Apps You Need
After your Ledger device is initialized, you can use the Ledger Wallet application to install supported cryptocurrency apps on the device. These applications allow the hardware wallet to interact with different blockchain networks and services.
From the application, you can manage supported accounts, review balances, and perform transactions while confirming important actions on your Ledger device. Supported assets and services can change over time, so check Ledger's official resources for current compatibility information.
You can also visit the official Ledger Support center for troubleshooting, device information, and security guidance:
Final Thoughts
Ledger.com/start provides a practical starting point for users who are ready to initialize a Ledger hardware wallet and begin managing digital assets. By downloading software from official Ledger sources, carefully setting up your device, protecting your PIN, and keeping your Secret Recovery Phrase private, you can establish the essential foundation for responsible self-custody.
Before approving transactions or connecting your device to third-party services, always verify what is displayed on your Ledger device itself and use trusted official resources for guidance.
Updated about 6 hours ago