
Welcome to Ledger.com/start — the authenticated gateway for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’re using Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, or any other Ledger model, this step‑by‑step onboarding experience ensures maximum protection and clarity. Ledger provides industry‑leading security for managing cryptocurrencies by isolating your private keys inside a secure hardware component. This page guides you through installation, device activation, recovery phrase setup, and connecting to Ledger Live — the all‑in‑one crypto management app trusted by millions worldwide. The setup experience is designed for both beginners and experienced users looking for the highest level of digital asset protection.
The Ledger onboarding process is carefully designed to ensure that every user completes their wallet setup securely. Start by unboxing your Ledger device and checking that the packaging is intact. Ledger devices come with tamper‑proof hardware protection, and no one — including Ledger — can access your private keys. Once you're ready, open your browser and visit Ledger.com/start. This is the only official setup portal and should be accessed directly to avoid phishing risks.
On the site, you will be prompted to download Ledger Live. This desktop and mobile application enables you to install apps for different crypto assets, manage balances, verify transactions, and keep your device firmware updated. After downloading, follow the on‑screen instructions to initialize your device. You will be asked to create a secure PIN code and complete the essential step of generating your 24‑word recovery phrase. This phrase is the only backup for your wallet. It must be written down on paper and stored offline in a safe place.
Ledger devices use a Secure Element (SE) chip, similar to those found in passports, biometric scanners, and payment terminals. This chip is built to resist advanced attacks and keeps your private keys isolated from your computer or mobile device. Unlike software wallets and exchanges, Ledger places all sensitive cryptographic operations inside the hardware wallet, meaning hackers cannot access your funds even if your computer is compromised. Ledger Live only serves as an interface — all approvals must be confirmed physically on your device.
Ledger’s security model is trusted globally because it places users in full control of their assets. No one else, including Ledger, can access your wallet or recovery phrase. This user‑controlled environment makes Ledger one of the safest solutions for managing Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, and thousands of other assets.
When your setup is complete, you gain access to Ledger’s secure ecosystem, where every transaction is authenticated directly on your hardware wallet. Ledger.com/start remains your trusted guide for updates, firmware installation, troubleshooting, and best‑practice security tips — ensuring smooth and safe crypto management for years to come.