Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

Overview

This page walks you through the essentials for getting started with Ledger hardware wallets. It covers device setup, creating and safely storing your recovery phrase, verifying transactions, and best practices for long-term security and maintenance.

What you'll need

A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.)
A computer or mobile device with a USB port or Bluetooth (depending on model)
Access to the official setup page: https://www.ledger.com/start

Step-by-step setup

This section breaks setup into clear steps. Follow them carefully and always use the official website when installing apps or firmware.

1. Unbox & inspect

Confirm the package is sealed and includes the device, cables, recovery sheet, and instructions. If anything looks tampered with, contact support and do not proceed.

2. Visit the official start page

Always begin at the official onboarding URL: https://www.ledger.com/start. The official page guides you to the right apps and software downloads and prevents phishing.

3. Initialize your device

Power on the device and select “Set up as new device”.
Create a PIN on the device — choose a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess.
Write down your recovery phrase exactly as shown. Verify the words shown on the device match what you wrote.

Why the recovery phrase matters

The recovery phrase (usually 24 words) is the only backup of your funds. Anyone with access to it can import your wallet and spend funds. Keep it offline and never share it.

Security best practices

Device hygiene

Only install official firmware and apps from Ledger Live or the official start page. Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages or emails. Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Storing the recovery phrase

Write the phrase by hand on the supplied recovery sheet or on a metal backup designed for seed storage.
Store copies in separate, secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, fireproof safe).
Do not photograph, email, or store the phrase in plaintext on a device or cloud storage.

Testing backup recovery

Test recovery in a controlled environment only if you know how to perform wallet restoration safely. Use a different (temporary) device for tests when possible.

Transacting safely

When sending assets, always verify transaction details on the hardware device screen before confirming. Do not rely solely on your computer's display — malware can tamper with amounts or addresses.

Address verification

Use the device to display the receiving address and compare it visually before completing any transfer.

Maintenance & updates

Keep firmware current and use official Ledger Live updates. Back up your recovery phrase before updating if the instructions specify.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter errors, disconnect and retry on a different computer. For persistent issues, consult the official start page for firmware instructions: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Quick checklist

Use official start URL: https://www.ledger.com/start.
Initialize device in a private setting and record recovery phrase offline.
Never reveal your recovery phrase or enter it into a website or app.
Verify transactions on-device.

HTML example — how to include proper headings (copy/paste)

The following small snippet shows proper semantic headings and an accessible link to the official start page:

<!-- minimal semantic structure -->
<header>
  <h1>Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started</h1>
</header>

<main>
  <h2>Overview</h2>
  <p>Start here: <a href="https://www.ledger.com/start">https://www.ledger.com/start</a></p>
</main>

Use headings in order (H1 once per page, then H2 for major sections, H3 for subsections, etc.). This helps both users and assistive technologies navigate the content.

Official links (10 copies)

Below are 10 instances of the official start URL for convenience. Each opens in a new tab.