Ledger.com/start is the official initialization portal for all Ledger® hardware wallets, serving as the secure starting point for device setup and configuration. This dedicated platform guides users through the critical first-time setup process, ensuring proper device authentication, firmware installation, and security configuration.
The portal automatically detects your specific Ledger® device model (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X) and provides customized instructions tailored to your hardware. This personalized approach eliminates setup confusion while maintaining enterprise-grade security standards throughout the initialization process.
Verifies genuine Ledger® hardware and ensures your device hasn't been tampered with during shipping or storage, providing peace of mind from the very beginning.
Automatically installs the latest secure firmware with all recent security patches and feature enhancements specific to your device model.
Guides you through the critical process of generating and securely backing up your 24-word recovery phrase - the master key to your cryptocurrency assets.
Connect your Ledger® device to your computer using the provided USB cable. Navigate to Ledger.com/start and follow the prompts to verify your device's authenticity and install necessary drivers.
The portal checks your device's firmware version and installs the latest secure update. This critical step ensures you have all recent security enhancements and compatibility updates.
Your device generates a unique 24-word recovery phrase. Write this down on the provided recovery sheet and store it in multiple secure locations. Never store it digitally.
Set up a secure PIN code that will be required every time you access your device. The PIN provides physical security even if your device is lost or stolen.
Complete the Ledger Live download and installation to access the full-featured interface for managing your cryptocurrency portfolio.
After completing Ledger Live download and installation, the Ledger Live Desktop application becomes your primary interface for managing cryptocurrencies. This sophisticated platform offers portfolio tracking, transaction management, and staking capabilities.
The Ledger Live App provides mobile access to your portfolio with additional features like Bluetooth connectivity for Ledger Nano X devices. The mobile app synchronizes with your desktop application for seamless cross-platform management.
The Ledger Live Login process requires physical device confirmation for all sensitive operations, ensuring your private keys never leave the secure hardware environment.
Ledger.com/start is exclusively for initial device setup, firmware installation, and first-time configuration. The regular Ledger Live Login is for daily access to your already-configured Ledger Live wallet. You only use the start portal once during initial setup.
No, and you shouldn't. Firmware installation ensures your device has the latest security patches and features. Using outdated firmware exposes you to known vulnerabilities. The process is quick and essential for maintaining optimal security.
No, Ledger.com/start is only for initial setup. For regular access, you'll use the Ledger Live Login process through the Ledger Live Desktop application or Ledger Live App after completing the initial configuration.
Without your recovery phrase, you cannot restore access to your funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. We strongly recommend creating multiple secure backups during the initial setup process at Ledger.com/start and storing them in different secure locations.
No, the Ledger Live App requires an already configured Ledger® device. You must complete the initial setup at Ledger.com/start using a computer before the mobile app can synchronize with your wallet data.
While the setup process uses strong encryption, we recommend using a trusted, private network for initial device setup. Public networks can be monitored, though the process itself is designed to be secure even on less trusted networks.