What Is ledger.com/start?
This is the official onboarding hub for users of the hardware wallets offered by Ledger. It’s carefully designed to walk you through the initial steps of setting up your wallet — from device selection to software installation to securing your recovery phrase. By going through this portal, you’re using the manufacturer’s recommended path, minimising risk from impostor links, outdated tutorials, or phishing traps.
Why Starting Here Matters
There are a few key reasons why using this portal is more than just “nice to have”:
Verified software download: When you go through ledger.com/start, you’re accessing the genuine version of the companion app (Ledger Live) and device firmware. This reduces the risk of installing fake or malicious software.
Step-by-step instructions: The setup path is geared for both newcomers and seasoned users. It covers all the essential steps, ensuring that you don’t inadvertently skip a security step.
Strong emphasis on security culture: The portal reinforces best-practices — for example: never sharing your recovery phrase, only downloading software via verified links, verifying the device’s authenticity. It’s as much about mindset as it is about procedure.
Device authenticity and integrity checks: The setup process helps you verify that your hardware wallet truly comes from the manufacturer, and ensure the firmware/device state is correct.
Central place for user resources: When all instructions, downloads, and guidance come from one official portal, it’s easier to keep track of updates, changes, and warnings.
In short: starting at this portal significantly lowers your risk when dealing with physical hardware + crypto.
How the Onboarding Flow Works
Here’s a high-level walk-through of what happens when you follow the setup path via ledger.com/start:
Select your device model
Depending on which hardware wallet you purchased (for instance, “Nano X” vs “Nano S Plus” or others), you pick your specific model. This ensures the steps you receive are relevant.Download the companion software
The portal directs you to download the official application (for desktop and/or mobile) that lets you manage your wallet, install coin apps, view balances, send/receive crypto.Connect and initialise your hardware wallet
Unbox and check the device is sealed and as expected.
Connect via USB (or Bluetooth if applicable) to your computer or mobile.
On the device, you’ll be prompted to set a PIN code (typically 4-8 digits).
The device then generates your recovery phrase (commonly 24 words) — the critical backup that lets you restore your wallet if the device is lost, stolen or damaged.
You’ll write this down, verify it as required, and store it securely offline.
Device verification & firmware update
Once you’ve initialised, the app will often check that your device is genuine, and ask you to install/update firmware if necessary. This ensures you’re not using a compromised or outdated device version.Install cryptocurrency apps / add accounts
Using the companion software, you install apps for each cryptocurrency you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). Then you add accounts, receive addresses, check your portfolio, and are ready to transact securely.Ongoing security / best practices
Never type your recovery phrase into a computer or mobile device other than the hardware device itself.
Store your recovery sheet in a safe offline location (ideally fire- and water-resistant).
Always download updates only through the official software and ensure authenticity of the source.
Be alert to phishing attempts — the hardware wallet provider (and its official app) will never ask you for your recovery phrase.
Periodically check for firmware/software updates and maintain strong device hygiene.
Key Benefits You Unlock
By following ledger.com/start and correctly setting up your hardware wallet, you gain:
True self-custody: Your private keys are stored on the hardware device in a secured chip, rather than on an exchange or cloud service.
Reduced attack surface: Since your key material remains offline and you approve transactions on the hardware device itself, you’re much less vulnerable to malware, hacks or remote breaches.
Control and flexibility: You can receive, send, manage many cryptocurrencies, install/uninstall apps for different chains, and interface with the wider Web 3 or DeFi ecosystem — all while keeping your keys safe.
Longevity and future-proofing: A proper setup means your wallet is ready for years of use. You’re not depending on one-off tutorials; you’re following an official, continuously supported onboarding route.
Confidence and peace of mind: Knowing you followed the recommended path means less worry: you minimise “did I do it right?” stress and instead can focus on managing your assets, not second-guessing your setup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with an official onboarding portal, errors in execution nullify many of the advantages. Here are typical missteps — and how to avoid them:
Using unofficial links or search results: Searching for “Ledger setup” may show fake sites or phishing portals. Always use the official domain.
Entering your recovery phrase into a computer or mobile app: The only time you should type the words is if you are restoring your wallet on the hardware device itself. Never type them into apps or websites.
Storing your recovery phrase digitally: If you store your phrase on cloud storage, email, screenshot, or password manager — you expose it to hackers. Always keep it offline, physical.
Skipping firmware or software updates: Not updating your device leaves you exposed to potential vulnerabilities that have already been patched.
Buying a second-hand device and assuming it’s safe: Always initialise your device from scratch via the official onboarding flow. Pre-configured devices may be compromised.
Sharing your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone: Anyone with those can access your funds irreversibly. The hardware wallet provider will never ask for them — if someone does, it’s a scam.
Ignoring authenticity checks: Some devices may be tampered with. Most official onboarding processes guide you to verify your hardware’s authenticity.
Final Thoughts
Embarking on your crypto journey — whether you’re holding Bitcoin for the long term, collecting NFTs, participating in decentralized finance or simply storing digital assets — begins with a secure foundation. The page ledger.com/start represents that foundation. It helps you confidently navigate the setup of a hardware wallet, align with best practices, and avoid the common pitfalls that can cost more than just time.
The hardware wallet is only as safe as its setup — the actions you take before you ever receive a coin are critical. Taking 10-15 minutes to follow the official steps means years of potentially safer self-custody. With your recovery phrase safely written, device verified and software up-to-date, you’re ready for what comes next: managing and growing your crypto position without worrying about the basics.