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Ledger.com/start — Complete 2025 Onboarding & Security Guide

Start your Ledger journey at Ledger.com/start. This guide walks you through the safest, most up-to-date setup steps for Ledger hardware wallets (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax) — from unboxing and initializing to using Ledger Live and protecting your recovery phrase. The instructions below follow Ledger’s best practices in 2025 and prioritize security, simplicity, and clarity.

Quick snapshot
  • Visit Ledger.com/start to get the official Ledger Live installer.
  • Initialize the device, create a PIN, and write down the recovery phrase offline.
  • Install blockchain-specific apps in Ledger Live, then add accounts and transact.
  • Never share your recovery phrase — Ledger never asks for it.

What exactly happens on Ledger.com/start?

The portal ensures you download the official Ledger Live app and offers device-specific setup flows. It performs integrity checks and delivers the latest security info before you touch any funds. Starting here reduces the risk of phishing, fake installers, and malicious clones.

Important: Only use installers obtained through Ledger.com/start. Third-party downloads may be harmful.

Step-by-step setup (practical)

  1. Go to Ledger.com/start. Confirm you are on the official page before downloading Ledger Live.
  2. Install Ledger Live for your OS — the app is the control center for accounts, updates and portfolio tracking.
  3. Power on your Ledger device and follow the prompts to initialize as new or restore an existing wallet.
  4. Create a PIN — choose a secure, memorable PIN and store it mentally; do not record it with the recovery phrase.
  5. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase physically on the supplied card or a dedicated metal backup. Keep this offline.
  6. Pair with Ledger Live via USB or Bluetooth (device-dependent). Ledger Live will verify device authenticity.
  7. Install blockchain apps from the Manager section in Ledger Live for each chain you want to use (BTC, ETH, SOL, etc.).
  8. Add accounts in Ledger Live and receive one small test transaction to confirm addresses match your device.

Device quick-comparison

DeviceConnectivityBest use
Ledger Nano S PlusUSB-CAffordable, secure cold storage for most users
Ledger Nano XUSB-C & BluetoothMobile-friendly, multi-account users
Ledger StaxWireless charging, E-ink touchscreenPower users, active traders, NFT collectors

Security best practices (non-negotiable)

  • Store recovery phrase offline. Use the supplied card or a metal backup — never a screenshot or cloud note.
  • Verify addresses on the device. Always confirm the receiving address shown in Ledger Live on your hardware screen.
  • Keep firmware updated. Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that patch vulnerabilities and add features.
  • Beware of phishing. Ledger support will never ask for your 24 words — treat unsolicited messages with suspicion.
  • Use passphrase (optional advanced) — if you choose, add an extra passphrase for hidden wallets (advanced users).

Ledger Live — features you should know

Ledger Live acts as a bridge: it lets you install blockchain apps, add accounts, send and receive funds, stake some assets, and integrate certain third-party apps. In 2025 Ledger Live includes stronger phishing detection and a clearer device authenticity flow.

Portfolio overview

Track balances across chains in a single, private dashboard.

Manager & App install

Install only official blockchain apps verified by Ledger from the Manager tab.

Common FAQs (short answers)

Q: Can I restore my wallet on another device?

A: Yes — the 24-word recovery phrase restores your accounts on any compatible device.

Q: What if my device shows a recovery phrase already filled?

A: That unit is compromised. Do not use it. Contact official Ledger support and obtain a verified replacement.

Q: Does Ledger ever ask for my 24 words?

A: No. Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase. Keep it secret.

Final notes

Starting at Ledger.com/start is the most reliable way to ensure you have the official Ledger Live installer and the most current onboarding flow. Treat your recovery phrase like the master key to your finances — store it offline, secure it, and never share it.

Begin at Ledger.com/start — protect your keys, own your crypto.