Introduction to Ledger.com/start Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding page for users who have purchased a Ledger hardware wallet and want to set it up safely and correctly. It serves as the verified starting point for initializing your device, installing the companion app, and learning the essential security steps required to protect your digital assets. Using the official start page ensures you avoid counterfeit instructions, malicious software, or phishing setups that could compromise your funds.

This guide-style web content walks you through everything a new user needs to know about getting started, from unboxing to first transaction readiness, while emphasizing security best practices at every stage.

Why You Should Always Begin at Ledger.com/start When dealing with cryptocurrency security, the source of your setup instructions matters. Many scams attempt to trick users into downloading fake wallet software or entering recovery phrases into fraudulent websites. The official start page exists to prevent those risks.

By beginning at Ledger.com/start, you ensure that:

You download authentic wallet management software You follow verified setup steps Your device firmware updates are legitimate Your recovery phrase is generated securely offline You avoid phishing and clone websites Never rely on third-party blogs or random video tutorials alone for wallet initialization. The official onboarding flow is designed to reduce user error and maximize protection.

What You Need Before Setup Before visiting the start page and beginning setup, make sure you have everything ready. Preparing in advance makes the process smoother and prevents rushed mistakes.

You will need:

Your new Ledger hardware wallet The included USB cable A computer or supported smartphone A stable internet connection A pen and the recovery phrase sheets from the box A private, distraction-free environment Do not begin setup in a public place or around people you do not trust. Privacy during wallet initialization is critical because you will generate sensitive recovery information.

Step 1 – Verify Package Integrity Before connecting your device, inspect the packaging carefully. The box should be sealed and untampered. Inside, you should find:

The hardware wallet device USB cable Recovery sheets Instruction cards Hardware wallets are built so that even if packaging is opened, the device still verifies authenticity during software connection. Never use a device that already contains a prewritten recovery phrase card — that is a major red flag. Recovery phrases must always be generated by the device during your own setup.

Step 2 – Visit Ledger.com/start Open your browser and manually type the official start URL. Avoid clicking links from emails, ads, or messages. Typing the address yourself reduces the chance of landing on a fake site.

On the start page, you will be guided to download the official wallet management application. This application allows you to:

Manage crypto accounts Install blockchain apps on your device Send and receive assets Verify balances Update firmware Always download software only from the official start page to avoid malware.

Step 3 – Install the Wallet Management App After reaching the start page, choose the correct version of the wallet app for your operating system. Installation usually takes only a few minutes.

During installation:

Do not install browser extensions claiming to be setup tools Do not download from mirror sites Do not trust pop-ups offering “faster setup” Once installed, open the application and select the option to initialize a new device if this is your first wallet.

Step 4 – Initialize Your Device Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the provided cable. The device will power on and display setup instructions on its screen. You will use the physical buttons on the wallet to navigate and confirm choices.

You will be prompted to:

Create a new wallet Set a PIN code Confirm your PIN code Choose a PIN that is hard to guess but easy for you to remember. Never share your PIN with anyone. The PIN protects your device if it is lost or stolen.

Step 5 – Generate and Record Your Recovery Phrase This is the most important step of the entire setup. Your device will generate a recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase). This is the master key to your crypto assets.

Key rules for handling your recovery phrase:

Write it down by hand on the provided sheets Keep the words in exact order Double-check spelling Never take photos of it Never store it in cloud storage Never type it into any website Never share it with anyone Anyone with this phrase can control your funds. The device will ask you to confirm several words to ensure you copied them correctly.

Step 6 – Device Authenticity Check After initialization, the wallet app will perform a genuine device check. This confirms that your hardware wallet is authentic and has not been modified.

This check happens automatically through secure communication between the device and the official software. If authenticity fails, stop immediately and contact official support. Do not continue setup with a device that fails verification.

Step 7 – Install Crypto Apps Hardware wallets support multiple blockchains through small device apps. Inside the wallet management software, you can install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to use.

Examples include apps for:

Bitcoin Ethereum Polygon Solana Other supported networks Installing an app does not cost your funds — it simply enables account management for that blockchain on your device.

Step 8 – Add Accounts After installing blockchain apps, you can add accounts within the wallet software. Accounts let you organize assets by network and purpose.

You can create:

Primary holding accounts Trading accounts Long-term storage accounts Each account is derived from your recovery phrase but separated for organization and tracking.

Step 9 – Receive Your First Crypto Transaction To receive crypto:

Open the wallet app Choose the account Click receive Connect and unlock your device Verify the address shown on the device screen Approve the address Always verify addresses on the hardware wallet screen, not just your computer display. This protects against clipboard malware and address-replacement attacks.

Step 10 – Security Best Practices After Setup Your wallet is only as secure as your habits. Follow these ongoing safety rules:

Keep your recovery phrase offline Store backup copies in secure locations Never reveal your phrase to support agents Ignore urgent “account problem” messages Bookmark the official start page Keep firmware updated through the official app Verify all transactions on the device screen Remember: legitimate support will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Common Mistakes to Avoid New users sometimes make preventable errors. Avoid these pitfalls:

Using a prewritten recovery card Downloading software from search ads Entering recovery phrase into websites Sharing wallet screenshots publicly Storing seed phrases digitally Rushing the setup process Taking extra time during setup dramatically improves long-term security.

Final Thoughts Ledger.com/start exists to provide a secure, official, and user-friendly path for initializing your hardware wallet. By following the guided steps, recording your recovery phrase correctly, and maintaining strong security habits, you create a solid foundation for protecting your digital assets.

Hardware wallets are powerful tools — but only when used properly. Start at the official onboarding page, follow each step carefully, and treat your recovery phrase like the master key it truly is.