Starting with a Ledger device can feel intimidating at first, but the official ledger.com/start page makes the process simple and secure. This guide will walk you through every step so that you can initialize your device correctly, protect your recovery phrase, and start managing your crypto with confidence.
Before doing anything, open your browser and type ledger.com/start manually. This prevents you from landing on fake websites designed to steal personal information. Bookmark the page so you can return to it safely whenever you need downloads or guides.
Ledger Live is the companion software for your device. Choose the version for your operating system — Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile. Install it and open the app to begin. You will be greeted with an onboarding screen that leads you through setup.
Select “Set up as new device” and follow the prompts. Choose a PIN that is strong and memorable. The device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the recovery sheet and double-check that you have all words in the correct order before continuing.
Your recovery phrase is the ultimate key to your funds. Never store it digitally or share it online. Keep it offline and secure. Many users invest in metal recovery plates to protect the phrase from fire, water, or physical damage.
Inside Ledger Live, open the Manager tab and install apps for the coins you plan to hold. Each coin requires its own app. After installation, you can add accounts, receive funds, and check balances in real time. This step personalizes your device for your portfolio.
Regular updates from Ledger fix bugs, improve security, and add new features. Always update Ledger Live and your device firmware when prompted. Confirm all update instructions on the device screen to ensure authenticity.
Never share your PIN or recovery phrase. Verify every transaction address on your device’s display before approving. Use a secure network during setup and enable password lock in Ledger Live to protect your portfolio data from unauthorized users.
If your computer fails to recognize the device, try a different USB cable or port. Restart both your computer and the device. Consult the help section on Ledger’s website for official solutions. Avoid unofficial forums that may give risky advice.
By starting at ledger.com/start, you guarantee that your Ledger device is set up securely and correctly. Carefully follow each step, write down and store your recovery phrase, and keep your device updated. With these precautions, your crypto remains safe and under your control.