Ledger.com/Start®

Why Ledger.com/Start® Is Your Safe Beginning 🔒

When it comes to securing your cryptocurrency assets, taking shortcuts is never an option. **Ledger.com/Start®** is the **official, trusted entry point** provided by Ledger to help you initialize your hardware device in the most secure way possible. Bypassing it can expose you to phishing, malware, or counterfeit firmware.

At **ledger.com/start**, you’ll be guided through device activation, firmware integrity checks, and correct pairing with **Ledger Live**—all while ensuring your private keys never leave the hardware. The portal gives you a structured, risk‑aware onboarding flow.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Make sure you have the following items ready before starting the setup:

• A genuine Ledger hardware device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
• USB cable (or Bluetooth connection for supported models)
• A computer or mobile device to install and run **Ledger Live**
• A clean and quiet workspace
• A recovery sheet (provided in the box) to write your seed phrase

📝 **Important Cautions**: - Always verify the **anti‑tamper seal** and ensure the box wasn’t opened. - Never connect your Ledger to an unknown or public device during setup. - Avoid typing or storing your recovery phrase digitally (no photos, no screenshots).

Step-by-Step Setup & Activation

Step 1: Visit Ledger.com/Start®

Open a browser and manually type **ledger.com/start** to ensure authenticity. Look for the secure lock icon 🔐 in the address bar to confirm the SSL connection.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

From the start page, choose your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and download **Ledger Live**—the official companion application to manage your crypto on Ledger. Always get Ledger Live from the official site—never from third-party sources or search results.

Step 3: Install & Launch

Follow the installation instructions on your device. Once installed, open Ledger Live and select “Get Started”. You’ll be prompted to select your Ledger model, either set up as a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase.

Step 4: Initialize Device

1. Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth for compatible models).
2. On the device screen, choose **Set up as new device**.
3. Create a secure 4–8 digit PIN code—this will protect access to your Ledger.
4. Ledger will generate a **24-word recovery phrase**. Write these words, in order, on the provided recovery sheet.
5. Confirm selected words from your phrase when prompted to verify accuracy.

Step 5: Genuine Check

Once the setup is complete, **Ledger Live** automatically performs a “genuine check”—verifying firmware integrity and device authenticity. If this check fails, stop and contact support immediately.

Step 6: Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts

Within Ledger Live:

• Go to **Manager** to install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.)
• Then go to **Accounts** and add crypto portfolios
• Your device will prompt you to validate account additions on its screen

Step 7: Perform a Test Transaction

Before transferring significant assets, send a small amount to yourself. Confirm the receiving address **on the device screen**, not just on the software interface, to avoid address spoofing.

Step 8: Firmware & App Updates

Always update to the latest firmware and app versions via Ledger Live’s update prompts. These updates include crucial security patches and broader asset support.

Security Tips & Best Practices 🛡️

Even the best hardware fails if security practices are weak. Use these principles to keep your assets safe:

• Never share your **24-word recovery phrase** under any circumstances.
• Store backups in **offline, fireproof, separated** locations.
• Enable a **passphrase / hidden wallet**, if you fully understand the trade-offs.
• Always confirm addresses and transactions on the **device display**.
• Use antivirus and secure OS environment when interacting with crypto.
• Beware of phishing: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase via email or message.
• Keep firmware and app versions current—don’t skip security patches.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Device Not Detected

• Try different USB ports or cables.
• Restart your computer or app.
• Reinstall or update Ledger Live.

Genuine Check Fails

If the authenticity check fails, do **not proceed**—this may indicate tampering or a counterfeit device.

Incorrect PIN / Locked Device

Entering the wrong PIN too many times resets the device. Use your recovery phrase to restore access.

Restore from Recovery Phrase

When setting up a new device, choose **Restore** instead of **New Setup** and enter your 24-word phrase. Your accounts and settings will be recovered.

Missing Seed Card

Some users report receiving no physical seed card. If so, use a blank paper, but ensure you store it securely and never digitally. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Multiple Device Setup

You can manage multiple Ledger devices with one Ledger Live instance. Add each separately and verify their addresses and fingerprints.