Official® | Lédger.com/Start® | Getting Started®
Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or transitioning from custodial services to self‑custody, Ledger.com/Start is the official entry point to setting up your Ledger wallet securely. This page is the trusted hub for activating your device, installing the companion app Ledger Live, and learning how to manage altcoins, connect to decentralized apps (dApps), interact with DeFi protocols, and safeguard your seed phrase.
What Is Ledger.com/Start?
Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding portal provided by Ledger — the world’s leading hardware wallet provider. It guides you through:
- Safe initialization of your Ledger wallet
- Official download and installation of Ledger Live for desktop and mobile
- Security setup including PIN codes and seed phrase creation
- Adding and managing crypto assets
- Connecting to DeFi, Web3, and dApps securely
Using an official setup page ensures you’re not falling prey to phishing, fake software, or malicious wallets pretending to be Ledger. Always verify the URL begins with https://www.ledger.com/start before proceeding.
Step‑by‑Step: Getting Started With Ledger
1. Visit Ledger.com/Start
Direct your browser to 👉 https://www.ledger.com/start. This verified page provides specific guidance for your Ledger device (e.g., Nano X, Nano S Plus, Ledger Stax) and the correct setup sequence.
2. Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official app you use to manage your portfolio, install coin apps, and interact with the broader crypto ecosystem. You’ll find download links for:
- Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Mobile: iOS & Android
Important: Only download Ledger Live from the Ledger.com domain — scammers frequently create counterfeit wallet apps that attempt to steal seed phrases.
3. Initialize Your Ledger Device
Follow prompts in Ledger Live and on your Ledger device to:
- Set a secure PIN code (4–8 digits)
- Generate and write down your 24‑word recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto assets — never store it digitally, photograph it, or share it with anyone. Real Ledger support will never ask for your seed phrase.
4. Verify Device Authenticity
Ledger Live performs a cryptographic check to confirm your hardware is genuine before you proceed. This prevents counterfeit devices from compromising your security.
5. Install Blockchain Apps
Once initialized, install apps for the coins you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Then add corresponding accounts in Ledger Live.
Managing Altcoins & Crypto Assets
After setup, Ledger Live becomes your command center for managing digital assets — including altcoins beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. Ledger supports thousands of tokens and assets, including:
- ERC‑20 tokens
- BEP‑20 tokens
- Solana, Polkadot, Cardano, Avalanche
- Polygon tokens and more
By adding accounts in Ledger Live, you can send, receive, stake, swap, and track the value of your altcoins — all while your private keys remain securely stored offline in your hardware wallet.
Connecting to dApps & Using DeFi Wallet Features
Ledger is not just for basic storage; it’s built to integrate with the evolving Web3 ecosystem:
- Connect Ledger to dApps
Use the Ledger hardware wallet in conjunction with wallets like MetaMask, Rabby, or WalletConnect to interact with decentralized exchanges (DEXes), lending platforms, NFT marketplaces, and more — while keeping your private keys securely protected on‑device. - DeFi Wallet Capabilities
In DeFi, Ledger users can:- Swap tokens on Uniswap, PancakeSwap, SushiSwap
- Provide liquidity and earn fees
- Borrow or lend assets via Aave or Compound
- Use bridges to move assets between chains
Always verify transaction data on your device screen before approving any DeFi action — this ensures no malware or unauthorized command can slip in.
Mobile Crypto Wallet Usage
While you can access Ledger Live on desktop, mobile support makes managing your crypto on the go easy and secure:
- Pair your Ledger device via Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X, Ledger Stax)
- View balances, send and receive crypto
- Get real‑time notifications
- Use Touch ID or Face ID protections within Ledger Live mobile
No matter where you access Ledger Live, your private keys stay offline — always within the hardware device.
Best Practices: Store Your Seed Phrase Safely
Your 24‑word recovery phrase is the only backup to regain access to your wallet if your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep these safety practices in mind:
✔ Write it down on paper or a metal backup (fireproof preferred).
✔ Never publish or store it digitally (no photos, no digital text).
✔ Store in multiple secure locations (home safe, bank box).
✔ Never enter it into software or websites — offline entry only.
✔ Ledger Support will never request your seed phrase.
Security Tip: Scammers often replicate official branding, asking for seed phrases to drain funds — so always double‑check URLs and download paths.
Useful Official Links
- Start here: https://www.ledger.com/start
- Ledger Live download: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
- Official Support: https://support.ledger.com
Bookmark these links and use only official Ledger domains to minimize risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Ledger.com/Start?
It’s the official onboarding and setup guide for all Ledger hardware wallet users — your verified starting point for secure wallet configuration.
2. Do I need Ledger Live to use my Ledger wallet?
Yes. Ledger Live lets you manage accounts, install blockchain apps, and interact with tokens and NFTs while keeping private keys offline.
3. Can I recover my wallet if lost?
Yes — using your 24‑word recovery phrase with a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. Keep it stored securely offline.
4. Can I use Ledger with DeFi and dApps?
Absolutely. Ledger integrates with Web3 wallets like MetaMask and Rabby, allowing access to DeFi, NFT marketplaces, and cross‑chain tools.
5. What happens if I forget my PIN?
If you forget your PIN, the device resets. You can restore access with your recovery phrase via Ledger Live.
6. Is Ledger.com/Start safe?
Yes. It’s the verified, official Ledger setup page. Always verify the URL and avoid third‑party or sponsored links.
Conclusion
Ledger.com/Start is your gateway into secure, self‑custodied cryptocurrency ownership. From managing altcoins and connecting to DeFi dApps to using Ledger Live on mobile and safeguarding your seed phrase, this official start page offers the safest, most comprehensive way to begin your Ledger journey. By following the verified steps, you ensure your keys remain offline, you avoid phishing and scam risks, and you retain full, autonomous control over your digital assets.