Overview — What ledger.com/start is and why it matters

ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal from Ledger that walks you, step by step, through authentic device initialization and Ledger Live installation. The central idea is simple: keep your private keys offline while using a trusted, verified desktop or mobile companion to manage accounts, check balances and sign transactions securely. This page summarizes official guidance and practical experience so you can complete setup with confidence.

Getting ready

Before you begin, ensure you have:

  • A new, factory-sealed Ledger device purchased from Ledger.com or an authorized reseller.
  • A current computer or supported mobile device and a stable internet connection (only for downloading Ledger Live and firmware).
  • A pen and the recovery card provided in the box, or a metal backup if you prefer durable storage.

Step-by-step setup & login flow

  1. Open ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your platform.
  2. Install Ledger Live, launch it, and follow the onboarding wizard. Choose “Set up as new device” when prompted on the app and on your Ledger device.
  3. Create a PIN directly on your Ledger hardware — this unlocks the device locally and is never transmitted to any server.
  4. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase shown on your device in order. Confirm the recovery phrase on the device when requested.
  5. Return to Ledger Live to complete firmware verification and install cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) from the Manager section.
  6. Connect accounts in Ledger Live, verify receiving addresses on-device, and perform a small test receive to confirm end-to-end correctness.

Security-first practices you should adopt

Ledger’s hardware security is strong, but your operational choices matter. Apply these practical safeguards:

  • Never disclose your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger support will not ask for it. Do not enter it on a website or save it digitally.
  • Buy official devices. Purchase only from Ledger.com or approved resellers to avoid tampered units.
  • Use firmware updates with caution. Only update via Ledger Live when prompted; verify messages and checksums where available.
  • Consider a metal seed backup for fire and water resistance if holding substantial value long-term.
  • Verify addresses on device. Always confirm the full receiving address on your Ledger screen before sharing it with senders.

About login & approvals

There is no centralized Ledger login that stores your private keys. “Logging in” in the Ledger context means unlocking the hardware device with your PIN and approving transactions or firmware actions on-device. Ledger Live is a companion UI — it prepares unsigned transactions, and the device signs them after you visually verify details and physically confirm. This model keeps custody with you and reduces server-side risk.

Troubleshooting essentials

Common issues and straightforward fixes:

  • Device not detected: Try another cable or USB port, ensure Ledger Live is updated, and reboot your machine.
  • PIN locked or forgotten: Resetting the device will wipe it; restore using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible wallet.
  • Firmware errors: Contact official Ledger Support at support.ledger.com before trying unofficial fixes.

Closing guidance

Setting up a Ledger device via ledger.com/start is the best practice for self-custody: verified firmware, an isolated signing environment, and the requirement that you confirm operations on the hardware device itself. Combine solid device security with careful operational choices — offline seed storage, verified downloads, and address confirmation — to keep your crypto secure for years.