Ledger.com/start — Official Ledger Start Guide & Ledger Live Download
Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet and downloading Ledger Live — the desktop and mobile app that lets you manage your crypto securely. This guide covers everything you need: what Ledger.com/start provides, step-by-step setup instructions, key Ledger Live features, security best practices, troubleshooting tips, and helpful FAQs.
What is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal maintained by Ledger. From this page you can download the latest Ledger Live installer for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android, find device-specific setup steps for Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus and Nano X, and access official knowledgebase articles. Always start here rather than using third-party links to avoid phishing.
Why begin at Ledger.com/start?
Starting at Ledger.com/start ensures you get the authentic Ledger Live app and up-to-date firmware for your device. The page links directly to Ledger’s verified downloads, step-by-step guides and safety notices. Using the official portal prevents accidental downloads of tampered installers or counterfeit documentation that attackers sometimes place on lookalike sites.
Step-by-Step: How to set up your Ledger from Ledger.com/start
- Visit Ledger.com/start and choose your operating system to download Ledger Live.
- Install the Ledger Live application and open it. On first launch you’ll choose between “Set up as new device” or “Restore device from recovery phrase” depending on whether you already have a seed.
- Connect your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S / Nano S Plus via USB, Nano X via USB or Bluetooth) and follow on-screen prompts to initialize the device: set a PIN, note your recovery phrase, and confirm a few test steps.
- After initialization, Ledger Live will prompt you to install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Install only what you need — apps are small and can be managed later.
- Add accounts inside Ledger Live for each cryptocurrency. The app will synchronize balances and give you a portfolio overview.
- Optionally enable features like staking or buy/sell integrations, and consider configuring a passphrase if you require extra security.
Key Ledger Live features after setup
Once you’ve completed the Ledger Live login and device pairing, the app provides a full suite of tools:
- Portfolio overview: Real-time balances and historical charts.
- Send & receive: Secure transaction signing on your Ledger device.
- Buy & swap: Integrated partners let you buy or exchange crypto from within the app.
- Staking: Participate in supported proof-of-stake networks to earn rewards.
- App management: Install or remove blockchain apps on your device safely.
- Device updates: Firmware and security updates delivered through Ledger Live.
Security best practices
Ledger’s security model relies on keeping your private keys on the hardware device. To protect your assets:
- Always download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start.
- Write your recovery phrase on the supplied recovery card — never store it digitally or share it.
- Do not enter your recovery phrase into any website, app, or chat.
- Keep your PIN private and change it if you suspect someone knows it.
- Use a passphrase for an extra hidden wallet if you need compartmentalization.
- Verify transaction details directly on your Ledger device screen before approving.
Troubleshooting common Ledger.com/start and Ledger Live issues
If you run into issues during download or setup, try these first steps:
- Confirm you visited Ledger.com/start and downloaded the correct installer for your OS.
- Check cables and USB ports (try a different cable or port). For Nano X Bluetooth pairing, ensure Bluetooth is enabled and the device is charged.
- Restart Ledger Live and reconnect your device. On persistent issues, reboot your computer.
- Make sure antivirus or security software isn’t blocking the Ledger Live installer.
- If firmware updates fail, follow on-screen recovery instructions on Ledger Live or consult the Ledger Support Center.
When to contact Ledger Support
If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve your issue (for example, unrecoverable firmware problems or device faults), contact Ledger Support via the official support site linked on Ledger.com. Provide device serial numbers and a clear description — but never disclose your recovery phrase or PIN to support staff.
FAQ — quick answers
- Is Ledger.com/start the official download page? Yes — always use it to avoid fake installers.
- Can Ledger Live be used without a device? No — a Ledger hardware wallet is required to sign transactions and access funds.
- What if I lose my device? Use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet to restore access to funds.
- Do I need to keep Ledger Live open to hold crypto? No — your crypto is stored on the blockchain; Ledger Live is a management interface paired to your device.
Final thoughts
Ledger.com/start is the secure entry point to owning and managing crypto with Ledger hardware. By following the official setup steps, installing Ledger Live, and adhering to strong security practices (never sharing your recovery phrase, verifying transactions on device, and using official downloads), you significantly reduce the risk of loss. Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced user, Ledger’s combination of a hardened device and the Ledger Live interface offers a robust and user-friendly solution to control your digital assets.