Ledger.com/Start – Official Hardware Wallet Setup Guide

About the Ledger.com Start Process

Ledger.com/Start is the official initialization sequence for all Ledger hardware wallets, including the Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, and future models. It provides step-by-step guidance that ensures your private keys are created securely within the device itself, never exposed online. Each instruction is designed to protect your cryptocurrency through verified firmware and offline key management.

Step 1: Unboxing and Authenticity Check

Every Ledger device is sealed with tamper-evident packaging. Before beginning, make sure the box and holographic label are intact. Authentic packaging ensures your device has not been accessed or altered. Ledger devices are never pre-configured or contain pre-written recovery phrases.

Step 2: Connecting the Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer using the supplied USB cable. The device screen will display a welcome message, followed by setup instructions. Read each message directly on the device and confirm with the physical buttons only when you are ready to proceed.

Step 3: Installing Ledger Live

To manage your wallet, you will use Ledger Live, the companion desktop and mobile application. It enables firmware updates, account setup, and transaction verification. Once installed, open Ledger Live and select “Initialize as New Device.” The app will guide you through each action, mirroring prompts displayed on your hardware wallet’s screen.

Step 4: Firmware Installation and Verification

During first use, Ledger Live may prompt you to install the latest firmware. This firmware acts as the secure operating system for your wallet. Firmware updates are cryptographically signed and verified directly by the device, ensuring authenticity and preventing tampering. Only proceed with updates prompted by Ledger Live to maintain verified integrity.

Step 5: Creating Your Wallet

Once firmware installation is complete, create a new wallet on your Ledger device. The wallet generation occurs entirely inside the device — private keys are never transmitted or visible to Ledger Live or your computer. The secure chip within your Ledger hardware wallet performs all cryptographic operations offline.

Step 6: Writing Down the Recovery Phrase

Your device will now display a unique list of 24 words, known as the recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your crypto assets. Write each word down in the correct order using pen and paper, and store it securely in an offline location such as a safe or protective case. Never photograph, scan, or store the phrase digitally.

The recovery phrase allows you to restore your wallet if your device is lost or reset. Ledger never stores or knows this phrase — its security depends entirely on you.

Step 7: Setting Your PIN Code

You will be asked to create a personal identification number (PIN). The PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. Each incorrect attempt increases the waiting time, making brute-force guessing effectively impossible. Always choose a PIN that cannot be easily associated with you or written down nearby.

Step 8: Accessing Ledger Live Dashboard

After setup, your device is ready to pair with the Ledger Live dashboard. Within Ledger Live, you can add accounts, view balances, receive crypto addresses, and prepare transactions. Every outgoing transaction must be verified and confirmed physically on your Ledger device. This verification ensures that no transaction can occur without your direct consent.

Recovery and Reset Options

If your device is ever lost, damaged, or reset, you can recover your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase. During recovery, the same keys are re-derived inside a new Ledger device. This process fully restores access to your funds without exposing your private keys. Always ensure you enter the recovery phrase privately, and never on a computer or mobile screen.

Security Principles Behind Ledger Hardware Wallets

Ledger wallets use dual-chip architecture: a secure element for cryptographic operations and a microcontroller for communication. The secure element isolates private key storage from potential malware or network attacks. Each transaction must be verified by you physically, ensuring end-to-end security.

• Private keys are created and stored only inside the secure element.
• Recovery phrases never leave the device’s screen.
• Firmware updates are verified by cryptographic signatures.
• Transaction approvals require physical confirmation on the device.
• Ledger Live communicates through encrypted channels only.

Best Practices for Wallet Safety

• Keep your recovery phrase offline and never share it.
• Download Ledger Live only from verified official sources.
• Regularly check for firmware updates through the Ledger Live app.
• Never approve transactions you do not recognize.
• Store your hardware wallet in a secure physical location.
• Use passphrase protection for advanced security needs.