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Ledger.com/start — Official Ledger Live Setup & Security Guide
Step-by-step onboarding for Ledger hardware wallets: download, initialize, secure your seed, and use Ledger Live safely.
Read time
~9–12 min
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal for Ledger hardware wallets and the place to download Ledger Live, install official firmware, and follow verified setup steps. Always type the URL directly into your browser to avoid phishing pages and ensure you’re using Ledger’s verified downloads and guides. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Ledger Live is Ledger’s companion app for managing crypto across devices — a single dashboard to receive, send, stake, and monitor assets while keeping private keys offline on your Ledger device. Trusted by millions of users worldwide, Ledger emphasizes hardware isolation and verified updates. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Why use Ledger + Ledger Live?
Ledger devices provide cold storage — private keys are generated and stored inside a secure element chip that never exposes them to your computer. Ledger Live is the trusted bridge that talks to your Ledger device for transactions without ever uploading your keys. This combination reduces remote-attack risk substantially.
Quick facts
Downloads: Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS & Android — available on the official start page. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Reach: Ledger states broad adoption and widespread use of their wallet ecosystem. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Practical Setup: 7 Clear Steps (what happens on Ledger.com/start)
1. Navigate to the start page
Type ledger.com/start into your address bar — avoid search ads. The page leads to Ledger Live downloads, device checks, and official support. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
2. Download Ledger Live safely
Choose your OS and download the Ledger Wallet / Ledger Live installer from the official source to avoid malware-injected installers. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
3. Unbox & verify device
Check packaging seals and onboard prompts. Ledger devices should never arrive with pre-filled recovery phrases or pre-initialized seeds.
4. Initialize & set PIN
Follow Ledger Live to set a PIN on your device. Use the device screen for all sensitive confirmations — never rely solely on your computer screen.
5. Write the recovery phrase
Ledger will show a recovery phrase (24 words for many devices). Write them down physically and store offline — do not photograph or copy to cloud storage.
6. Install apps & add accounts
Install cryptocurrency apps on your device via Ledger Live (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and add accounts to receive funds.
7. Perform a small test transaction
Before moving large amounts, send a small test transfer to confirm everything displays correctly on the device.
Security Essentials — Protecting Your Recovery Phrase & Device
Your recovery phrase (seed) is the master key — whoever holds it can recreate your wallet. Ledger and security experts recommend:
- Never store the seed digitally (no photos, screenshots, cloud notes).
- Keep at least two physical backups in separate secure locations (bank safe, home safe, etc.).
- Consider a metal backup plate for fire/water resistance.
- Verify firmware updates in Ledger Live and only install updates prompted by the official app. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Phishing sites: Only use official Ledger start page and official app downloads. Bookmark the site and type the URL manually. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Fake support scams: Ledger support will never ask for your seed. If someone requests it, treat it as fraud.
- Unverified firmware: Only update via Ledger Live prompts to prevent installing tampered firmware.
FAQ — Quick Answers
Q: Is ledger.com/start the only safe setup portal?
A: Yes — Ledger’s official start page hosts verified Ledger Live downloads and setup instructions. Always confirm the site URL and certificate before downloading. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Q: What if I lose my Ledger device?
A: If you have your recovery phrase, you can restore funds on a new Ledger or compatible device. Without the seed, funds cannot be recovered — so backups matter.
Q: Can Ledger Live manage many coins?
A: Ledger Live supports a wide range of crypto assets; additional apps and integrations expand support for tokens and chains. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Conclusion — A secure first step
Starting at Ledger.com/start and following the Ledger Live flow gives you a verified, secure path to custody of your crypto. The core trade-off is control vs convenience: move coins to your Ledger device when you want real ownership and isolate keys offline. Treat your recovery phrase like a master key — protect it, back it up physically, and only use official Ledger resources for firmware and downloads. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
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Ledger Start Guide — Curated summary
Sources: Official Ledger start page and Ledger Live download hub. For downloads and device-specific instructions, always use the official site. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}