ledger.com/start
for your digital assets.
Setting up a hardware wallet is about more than installing an app. Take a moment to get the fundamentals right—and keep control where it belongs.
What is Ledger.com/Start?
Ledger.com/start is Ledger’s official starting page for users configuring a compatible Ledger hardware wallet. It provides setup instructions and access to the official companion application, currently branded Ledger Wallet. Some older guides call this application Ledger Live.
Go straight to the source
Visit ledger.com/start directly. Check the address carefully before downloading software or connecting your device.
A hardware wallet is designed to keep private keys within a dedicated device when authorizing supported transactions. The companion application provides an interface for managing accounts, checking balances, and accessing supported crypto services.
Set up with confidence.
Prepare your Ledger device
Unpack your hardware wallet and check that the device and included accessories appear appropriate for the product you purchased. Follow the manufacturer’s official authenticity and initialization instructions. Packaging alone cannot establish that a device is genuine.
Connect the device using a compatible cable or supported connection method. Follow the instructions displayed on the hardware wallet itself. If it arrives initialized, contains a recovery phrase supplied by someone else, or behaves unexpectedly, stop and consult official Ledger Support.
Download the official wallet app
The companion application helps you manage supported cryptocurrencies and interact with your hardware wallet. Download it only through Ledger’s official website or the official app store listing linked from Ledger’s website.
Select the version compatible with your computer or smartphone and follow the installation instructions. Avoid advertisements, unsolicited messages, unofficial download mirrors, and unfamiliar websites offering wallet software.
Create or restore your wallet
Open the companion application and follow its guided setup process. To create a new wallet, select the new-device option and complete initialization using the instructions shown on your hardware wallet.
Choose a strong device PIN and keep it private. Your device may display a recovery phrase during initialization. Record it exactly as instructed, in the correct order, and verify it using the device’s confirmation procedure.
If restoring an existing wallet, proceed only when you understand the recovery process and are using a genuine device. Enter recovery words only through the trusted recovery interface on the hardware wallet when official instructions require it.
Protect your recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase is one of the most important parts of wallet security. Someone who obtains it may be able to gain control of the associated crypto assets without needing your physical device or PIN.
- Never share your recovery phrase with another person.
- Never enter it into a website, online form, or chat.
- Do not photograph it or store it in cloud storage.
- Keep your backup in a private, secure offline location.
- Be wary of anyone asking for your phrase to verify or unlock your wallet.
Add accounts and manage crypto
Once your device is initialized, use the companion application to install the necessary cryptocurrency apps and add supported accounts. Availability varies by Ledger model, software version, blockchain network, and asset.
Before receiving funds, confirm the selected network and receiving address match the asset you intend to transfer. When sending cryptocurrency, carefully verify the recipient address, network, amount, and transaction details on your hardware wallet’s own screen before approving.
Consider making a small test transfer when appropriate. Blockchain transactions are generally irreversible, and network fees may apply.
Common setup problems
Device not recognized?
Check the cable, USB port, connection method, and application compatibility. Restarting the app or trying another compatible port may help.
Account or asset missing?
Check whether the application, network, and device support it. Consult official documentation before changing security settings or attempting recovery.
Security is a habit, not a setting.
Keep your companion application and device firmware updated through official channels. Use a secure, up-to-date computer or smartphone, enable appropriate device protections, and review every transaction before approving it.
Be cautious when connecting to decentralized applications or signing unfamiliar messages. A hardware wallet cannot protect you from every scam, malicious smart contract, deceptive transaction, or mistake. Understand what you are authorizing before proceeding.
Slow down. Check twice.
Stay in control.
Start at the official Ledger website, follow instructions for your specific model, and seek verified support whenever something seems unusual. Responsible security habits can help reduce avoidable risks.
Continue at Ledger.com/StartThis article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not official Ledger documentation and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Ledger SAS. Ledger and related product names are trademarks of their respective owners.
Cryptocurrency ownership and transactions involve risks, including price volatility, phishing, theft, technical errors, and irreversible transfers. This article is not financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Verify instructions through official sources and make independent decisions based on your circumstances.