Complete Guide: ledger.com/start — secure setup, verification, and long-term safety
Starting with ledger.com/start marks the official onboarding path for Ledger hardware wallets. Whether you have a Nano S, Nano X, or another Ledger product, the start process is designed to ensure your device is genuine, firmware is valid, and your recovery phrase is created securely on the device itself. This guide unpacks each step with practical tips and security-minded best practices.
When your Ledger device arrives, begin by visually inspecting the packaging. Ledger packages are designed to be sealed and tamper-evident; any suspicious signs should be reported to the vendor before powering the device. Next, use a trusted personal computer (avoid public kiosks) and type ledger.com/start manually into your browser or download Ledger Live from the official website. Avoid links sent via unsolicited emails or chats to prevent phishing risks.
Once connected, the standard flow will prompt you to install Ledger Live or continue with the web-based initialization. Ledger Live simplifies firmware updates, app management, and portfolio tracking. During setup, choose between creating a new device or restoring an existing one. Creating a new device will generate a recovery phrase (typically 24 words) directly on the Ledger device screen — this is crucial: the phrase must be written down carefully and never stored digitally. Consider a metal backup product for long-term durability.
If restoring from an existing seed, follow the device prompts to input words with the device’s buttons or touch controls. Only enter seed words on the hardware device — never input them into a computer or phone. Many users add an optional passphrase (a secret appended to the recovery phrase) for an additional privacy/security layer. Passphrases are powerful but also raise recovery complexity — losing the passphrase along with the seed means irrecoverable loss.
Firmware verification is essential. Ledger devices will require firmware updates from time to time; always perform these updates using Ledger Live and verify the update prompts on the device screen. Never accept firmware from untrusted third-party sources. Ledger devices use signed firmware — following the official update flow minimizes the risk of tampered updates.
When transacting, always verify recipient addresses on the Ledger device display rather than relying solely on the host computer’s screen. The hardware display is the only trusted output that protects against host-side malware attempting to redirect funds. Confirm transaction amounts and addresses carefully. Regularly update Ledger Live and the device firmware to stay protected against known vulnerabilities and follow official security advisories.
Troubleshooting tips: if ledger.com/start doesn’t detect your device, try a different USB cable or port, enable browser permissions, or reinstall Ledger Live. For connectivity issues with a mobile device, confirm Bluetooth (for Nano X) settings and that Ledger Live mobile is updated. If the device becomes unresponsive or shows unexpected behavior, consult official Ledger support and documentation before attempting risky recovery steps from unverified sources.
Long-term safety practices include distributing backups in geographically separate secure locations, preferring offline and physical backups over digital copies, and considering Shamir Backup (if supported) for splitting seeds across multiple secure locations. Educate any trusted custodians on how to access funds with clear instructions, but avoid sharing secrets over digital channels.
In short, ledger.com/start is the trusted starting point for a security-first setup. Use official downloads, never expose your recovery phrase digitally, confirm firmware and transaction details on-device, and store backups in tamper-resistant formats. These practices create a resilient foundation for managing crypto assets securely with Ledger.