Ledger.com/Start Setup: Your First Step to True Crypto Cold Storage

How to Set Up Ledger.com/Start: A First-Timer’s Walkthrough

Congratulations on choosing Ledger — the gold standard in hardware wallet security and cold storage for crypto. With over 6 million users worldwide, Ledger devices (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax) keep your private keys completely offline, shielded inside a certified secure element chip — the same tech used in passports and credit cards.

This guide walks you through the official Ledger.com/Start process using the Ledger Live app (your Hardware Wallet Brand live app). We’ll cover unboxing, initialization, seed backup, and first transactions — all based on verified Ledger documentation and real-world best practices. Let’s get your wallet up and running securely!

Step 1: Unbox & Verify Your Ledger Device

1. Purchase only from shop.ledger.com or authorized resellers. Avoid eBay, Amazon, or third-party sellers to prevent tampered devices.
2. Check the box: It should be sealed with a tamper-evident sticker. Inside: Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheets, and getting started card.
3. Verify authenticity: The device should say “Welcome to Ledger” on first boot — never “pre-configured” or ask for a seed phrase.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live & Connect Your Device

1. Go to ledger.com/start and click “Download Ledger Live” (available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
2. Install and open Ledger Live — your all-in-one dashboard for managing crypto.
3. Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Unlock with PIN (set in next step).

Step 3: Initialize Ledger.com/Start & Secure Your Recovery Seed

1. In Ledger Live, select “Get Started” → “Set up a new device”.
2. Choose your model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.) and follow on-screen prompts.
3. Set a PIN (4–8 digits) on the device itself — this protects physical access.
4. Write down your 24-word recovery seed on the provided paper sheet:
   • Displayed one word at a time on the Ledger screen.
   • Confirm by re-entering random words on the device.
   • Never take photos, type it online, or store digitally.
5. Store the seed in a fireproof safe, metal backup (like Billfodl), or split across secure locations.

Step 4: Install Apps & Add Accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum)

1. In Ledger Live, go to Manager → Allow Ledger Manager on device.
2. Install apps: Search for Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc. (each app ~200 KB).
3. Go to Accounts → Add Account → Select crypto → “Continue” → Confirm on device.
4. Receive address appears — always verify it matches on the Ledger screen before sending funds.

Your private keys never leave the Ledger secure element. Transactions are signed offline — the ultimate in offline crypto storage.

Step 5: Send, Receive & Use Ledger Live Securely

• Receive: Copy address → Verify on device → Send from exchange (test with small amount first).
• Send: Enter recipient → Amount → Fees → Confirm on device (prevents malware attacks).
• Portfolio: Track all assets in one view. Update firmware regularly via Ledger Live.
• Ledger Recover (Optional): Paid cloud backup service — only if you’re comfortable with third-party recovery (not needed for self-custody).

Best Practices: Protect Bitcoin & Ethereum Like a Pro

• ✅ Use Ledger for long-term holdings (cold storage).
• ✅ Enable passphrase (25th word) for hidden wallets.
• ✅ Test recovery process with a new device and tiny amount.
• ✅ Keep firmware & Ledger Live updated.
• ✅ Never enter seed into any website or app — Ledger will never ask for it.
• 📞 24/7 Support: support.ledger.com