Ledger.com/Start® – Official Guide to Starting Your Ledger Device
Quick, clear, and secure steps to get your Ledger device ready. This guide walks you through the full setup using Ledger.com/Start®, how to protect your recovery phrase, and basic troubleshooting.
Why use Ledger.com/Start®?
Ledger.com/Start® is the recommended starting point to initialize your Ledger device. Whether you’re using the Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or another Ledger hardware wallet, Ledger.com/Start® gives step-by-step instructions and the official Ledger Start tools you need to safely set up your device. Many users search for ledger start or type Ledger/Start in their browser—this page explains what happens when you go to Ledger Start and how to proceed correctly.
Before you begin
Find a secure, private workspace away from cameras and prying eyes.
Unbox your Ledger hardware and check packaging integrity.
Have a pen and the recovery card or secure paper ready to write your recovery phrase down (do not store it digitally).
Make sure your computer or smartphone is updated and that you can access Ledger.com/Start safely.
Step-by-step: How to start your Ledger device (Ledger Start)
Go to Ledger.com/Start®: Open a private browser window and visit Ledger.com/Start. Confirm you are on the official site before continuing. This is the Ledger Start portal for device initialization.
Connect the device: Use the supplied USB cable or Bluetooth (for supported models) to connect your Ledger. Follow the on-screen prompt that appears on the Ledger device display.
Select “Set up as new device”: If the device is brand new, choose to initialize as a new device. If you are restoring, choose the restore option and follow the restore-specific prompts.
Choose a PIN code: Pick a secure 4–8 digit PIN. Remember: this PIN unlocks your device locally. Do not share it. Write nothing about the PIN on the recovery card.
Write down your recovery phrase: Your Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write each word in order on the recovery card. This phrase is the ONLY backup of your crypto funds. Treat it like physical cash.
Confirm the recovery phrase: The device will ask you to confirm certain words from the phrase. Confirm them as prompted—this ensures you wrote them down correctly.
Install Ledger Live: Ledger Start will prompt you to install Ledger Live (desktop or mobile). Ledger Live is the companion app to manage accounts, send/receive crypto, and install apps for different coins.
Open Ledger Live and add accounts: After installing Ledger Live, open it and follow the on-screen instructions to add accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Ledger Live pairs with your Ledger device—approve actions on the device screen.
Keep your device firmware updated: Ledger Start and Ledger Live will inform you if a firmware update is needed. Only update firmware from the official Ledger interfaces.
Important: Never type your 24-word recovery phrase into a website or store it digitally. Ledger Start, Ledger Live, and the Ledger device itself never ask you to enter your recovery phrase into a web form. If a website asks for your recovery phrase, it is a scam.
Security best practices
Follow these core security habits after completing Ledger Start:
Store the written recovery phrase in a fireproof, waterproof safe or split it among secure locations.
Do not share pictures of your recovery card or post it online.
Use a strong, unique PIN and enable extra protections available in device settings.
Only download Ledger Live from the official sources linked through Ledger.com/Start or Ledger’s official site.
Troubleshooting common Ledger Start issues
If the device doesn't respond at Ledger Start:
Try a different USB cable or port.
Restart your computer and reconnect the device.
Ensure your OS is up to date and that Ledger Live (if installed) has the latest version.
If the device still fails to initialize, verify packaging authenticity and contact Ledger support through official channels (do not share your recovery phrase).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What exactly is Ledger.com/Start® and why should I use Ledger Start?
Ledger.com/Start® (often searched as ledger start or typed as Ledger/Start) is the official starting portal that guides you through safe device initialization, firmware updates, and Ledger Live installation. It ensures you follow the secure steps recommended by Ledger.
2. Can I restore my wallet using Ledger Start?
Yes. When you go through Ledger Start, you can choose the “Restore device” option to input your existing 24-word recovery phrase on the device (never type it into a computer). This is the Ledger Start restore flow used to recover accounts.
3. Is it safe to use third-party apps after Ledger Start?
Ledger Start and Ledger Live support a range of third-party integrations. Only connect trusted apps and review permissions carefully. Always verify links and official integration instructions through Ledger Start or Ledger’s official documentation.
4. My device says “Unknown device” when I visit Ledger Start — what do I do?
Try a different cable or port, ensure Ledger Live is installed, and confirm the device screen shows the expected Ledger boot logo. If unsure, contact official Ledger support and avoid entering your recovery phrase anywhere online.
5. Can I use Ledger Start on mobile?
Yes. Ledger Start provides mobile guidance and links to the Ledger Live app for iOS and Android. Some devices (like Ledger Nano X) support Bluetooth pairing with Ledger Live mobile after completing Ledger Start.