Ledger.com/Start®: what it is and why it matters
Ledger.com/Start® is the official onboarding hub designed to guide both new and returning users through the critical first steps of using a Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’ve purchased a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, Nano S, or any Ledger model, the Start hub collects verified, vendor-provided instructions so you can install Ledger Wallet, configure your device, and securely back up your recovery phrase. Those official setup steps are the single most important defense against accidental loss and online scams — they ensure you create your device safely, never share private keys, and keep your recovery phrase offline. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Before you start: what you’ll need
Prepare these items: your new Ledger device (in unopened packaging), a computer or smartphone with a supported OS, the USB cable included in your Ledger box (or Bluetooth for Nano X mobile pairing), a quiet workspace, and a pen to write your 24-word recovery phrase on the official recovery card. Importantly, never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into a browser or online form — Ledger’s official guidance warns to keep this phrase offline and private. Following these steps prevents many common threats such as phishing pages and fake setup guides. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Step-by-step: download Ledger Wallet and initialize
First, visit the official Start URL and download Ledger Wallet (the official client app). Run the installer and open Ledger Wallet. The app will guide you to choose your device model, then offer two options: set up as a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase. Choose “Set up as new device” if this is your first Ledger. Pick a secure PIN on the device itself and confirm it — the PIN protects local access to the device. Next the unit will show the 24-word recovery phrase, one word at a time; record these precisely on the recovery sheet provided. Store that sheet securely — offline. These are the canonical onboarding steps described in Ledger’s Start hub and support articles. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Adding accounts and managing assets
After initialization, open Ledger Wallet, go to Accounts, and add the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc). Ledger Wallet creates local accounts and displays balances that are derived from the public keys on your device; all transactions still require physical confirmation on the Ledger device. That physical signature step is the core security advantage of hardware wallets: even if your computer is compromised, an attacker cannot move funds without access to the physical device and the PIN. Ledger’s official documentation and Academy explain supported assets and step-by-step account creation. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Security best practices: backup, recovery, and scam avoidance
The 24-word recovery phrase is your master backup. Do not photograph it or store it in cloud storage. Consider metal backup solutions or fireproof safes for long-term storage. Ledger also recommends verifying software downloads using official channels (never click installer links received by email from unknown senders) and enabling device passphrases if you want an additional layer of protection. If at any time you believe your recovery phrase may have been exposed, you must transfer assets to a new wallet and initialize a fresh device. Ledger Support maintains detailed instructions on restoring devices and migrating funds. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Using Ledger Wallet (Ledger’s app): what to expect
Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) is the secure companion app and interface for your Ledger device. It enables you to add accounts, send and receive assets, and use integrated third-party services for buying, swapping, and staking. The app emphasizes local storage of user data and requires physical confirmation on-device for every action that moves funds. For more advanced users, Ledger’s developer portal and Academy offer integrations, staking tutorials, and guides on cross-chain asset management. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Advanced flows: restoring a device and migrating to a new device
Should you ever need to restore from a recovery phrase — for example when replacing a lost or damaged Ledger — the Start guide walks you through the restore flow. Choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during the device initialization and enter each of the 24 words in order. Once restored, reconnect Ledger Wallet and re-add accounts. For migrations, always verify that the receiving device is genuine and purchased from official channels. Ledger’s support portal provides explicit, up-to-date instructions for these recovery and migration scenarios. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Where to learn more and keep updated
Ledger Academy provides approachable lessons and video guides for beginners and advanced users alike. Frequently revisit the Start hub and support docs for updates, firmware advisories, and security tips. If you prefer video walkthroughs, Ledger and community creators publish step-by-step setup videos — but always cross-check videos with Ledger’s official Start page to avoid impostor content and scams. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Checklist: ready to go
Before you finish setup, confirm: device initialized as new, PIN chosen and memorized, recovery phrase recorded on the official sheet and stored offline, Ledger Wallet installed from ledger.com/start, and accounts added for your chosen assets. If all items are checked, you’re ready to securely manage and grow your crypto. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Official references: Ledger Start hub (ledger.com/start), Ledger Support, Ledger Academy, Ledger Wallet overview. Links above open in new tabs. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}