Ledger.com/start — Official Ledger Live Setup & Getting Started Guide

Ledger.com/start is the official starting point to download Ledger Live and set up your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X). This guide walks you through the full setup flow, explains the security model, and gives practical tips to keep your crypto safe while using Ledger Live. Follow the official steps and never share your recovery phrase online.

What is Ledger.com/start?

Ledger.com/start is Ledger’s verified onboarding portal. It provides links to the Ledger Live installers for desktop and mobile, step-by-step initialization instructions, firmware updates, and official resources. Always begin at Ledger.com/start when you first set up or restore a Ledger device — it reduces the risk of malware and phishing.

Quick overview — Setup steps (high level)

Visit Ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS or Android).
Install and open Ledger Live, then choose “Initialize as new device” or “Restore device” depending on your situation.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet (USB or Bluetooth for Nano X) and follow on-screen prompts.
Create a PIN, note your 24-word recovery phrase, and keep it offline and private.
Install cryptocurrency apps on your device via Ledger Live and add accounts to manage assets.

Important: Ledger employees will never ask you for your 24-word recovery phrase. Treat the seed phrase like the master key to your funds — store it offline in a safe place.

Step-by-step: Downloading Ledger Live

From Ledger.com/start choose the appropriate download for desktop or mobile. Ledger Live installers are signed — verify the file if you are on an advanced OS that supports signature checks. Install, launch, and accept the minimal permissions the app requires.

Desktop: recommended for full features (portfolio, manager, staking, swap integrations).
Mobile: great for on-the-go portfolio viewing and operations (pair via Bluetooth for Nano X).

Initializing your Ledger device (new device)

Open Ledger Live and select “Get started.” Choose your device model.
Follow the app instructions to connect the device and confirm the firmware version on the device screen.
Create a PIN on the device (short numeric PIN). Confirm it on the device only.
Write down your recovery phrase exactly as shown on the device — do not store it digitally.
Confirm the recovery phrase when prompted to ensure accuracy.

Restoring from a recovery phrase

If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous Ledger or another compatible wallet, choose the “Restore device” option in Ledger Live. Enter the recovery seed only on the Ledger device; never type it into a computer or phone.

Key features available after Ledger Live setup

Portfolio dashboard: Real-time balances and asset breakdown.
Send & Receive: Create and sign transactions locally on the device.
Manager: Install official coin apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on your device.
Swap & Buy: Integrated partners let you buy or swap assets without exposing keys.
Staking: Stake supported tokens directly through the app for rewards.

Security model — why Ledger Live + device is safe

Ledger’s security design separates the software interface (Ledger Live) from the device’s secure element. Private keys are generated and stored on the device only — they never leave it. Transactions are prepared on Ledger Live but must be physically approved on the device, which prevents remote actors from moving funds without your physical consent.

Pro tip: Use a passphrase (25th word) only if you understand the tradeoffs — it creates hidden wallets and adds strong defense but increases recovery complexity.

Best practices & safety checklist

Always start at Ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live.
Never enter your recovery phrase into a website, app, email, or chat — only on the device.
Keep your recovery phrase offline, preferably in a fireproof safe or using a metal backup solution.
Verify firmware updates directly on your device and accept only signed firmware prompts.
Enable two-factor authentication on any third-party services, but remember 2FA does not replace hardware wallet security.

Troubleshooting common setup issues

If Ledger Live can’t detect your device, try these steps:

Use a different USB cable and port (preferably a data cable, not charge-only).
Ensure your operating system recognizes the device (check device manager / system profiler).
Restart Ledger Live and your computer, then reconnect the device.
If Bluetooth pairing fails for Nano X on mobile, toggle Bluetooth and re-pair through Ledger Live Mobile.
Consult the Ledger Support Center before attempting any advanced fixes.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is Ledger.com/start the only safe place to download Ledger Live?: A: Yes — Ledger.com/start is the official download portal. Downloading Ledger Live from third-party sites increases risk of tampered installers.
Q: Can Ledger Live be used without a Ledger device?: A: Ledger Live requires a Ledger hardware wallet for sending transactions. You can view some public data without the device, but signing requires the hardware.
Q: What if I lose my recovery phrase?: A: If you lose the recovery phrase, you risk permanent loss of funds. Ledger cannot recover it for you. Store the phrase securely and consider metal backups.
Q: Does Ledger charge to use Ledger Live?: A: No — Ledger Live itself is free. Third-party services integrated in the app may charge fees for swaps, purchases, or staking services.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/start is the official and safest starting point for anyone setting up a Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live. The combination of Ledger Live’s features and the device’s secure element offers a powerful — and safe — way to manage crypto. Follow the official instructions, protect your recovery phrase, and keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date to maintain the highest level of security.