Official Site® | Ledger Live® | Getting Started

Welcome to your official guide for starting up Ledger Live® through ledger.com/start. This is the secure, verified entry point to initialize your Ledger hardware wallet, manage your crypto assets, and protect your private keys with maximum security. Whether you're new to crypto or just new to Ledger Live, this walkthrough will give you everything you need to begin safely.

What is Ledger Live®?

Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It enables you to:

• Install firmware on your Ledger device to ensure food‑security updates and fixes. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
• Add and manage crypto accounts for many supported assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• Send, receive, swap, and stake crypto via trusted partners, all while keeping your private keys offline. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Verify all transactions on the physical Ledger device so malware or compromised hosts cannot trick you. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Why Use ledger.com/start?

Ledger’s official onboarding portal serves some critical roles:

• Ensures you download the genuine Ledger Live app, not a fake or malicious version. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Provides step‑by‑step instructions specific to your device model (e.g. Nano S Plus, Nano X). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Guides you through setup, backup, firmware, and account configuration in a secure environment. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Includes device authenticity verification so you can confirm your hardware is genuine. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide

1. Unbox & Inspect

When your Ledger device arrives, ensure the packaging is sealed and untampered. Check for anti‑tamper stickers or seals, and purchase only from authorized sources. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

2. Go to ledger.com/start

Open your browser and navigate to ledger.com/start. Confirm that you see a secure HTTPS connection, correct domain, and the official site content. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

3. Download Ledger Live

Select the version that matches your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS). Download only from the official site to avoid risk of tampered files. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

4. Initialize Your Wallet

Connect your hardware wallet to your computer or mobile device. Choose “Set up as new device” (or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you already have one). Then select a secure PIN code. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

5. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your device will generate a unique 24‑word recovery phrase. This is the only backup of your wallet. Write it down carefully, and store it offline (on paper or metal). Never store it as a photo, in cloud storage, or share it with anyone. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

6. Confirm Recovery Phrase

Ledger Live will prompt you to confirm certain words from the phrase to ensure accuracy. Only proceed after you’ve correctly recorded them. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

7. Install Apps & Add Accounts

Use the Ledger Live interface to install the necessary apps (for example: Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) onto your device. Then add corresponding accounts in the app. This allows you to receive and send those assets. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

8. First Transactions

Test by receiving a small amount of crypto first. When sending, always verify the transaction details (address, amount) both in Ledger Live and physically on your device screen. This double‑verification guards against attacks. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

9. Keep Firmware & Software Updated

Ledger and Ledger Live frequently issue firmware and software updates. Always apply updates promptly. These often fix security vulnerabilities. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Features You’ll Have Access To

• Portfolio Dashboard: View balances, transaction history, and track performance of all your crypto assets. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Buy & Swap: Integrated options to purchase coins, swap between assets within Ledger Live with trusted third‑party partners. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Staking & DeFi Access: Stake supported currencies, interact with select DeFi protocols, and manage NFTs. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Device Security Tools: Change PIN, enable passphrase support, verify devices, and use “Privacy Mode” where available. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Multi‑Platform Use: Ledger Live works on both desktop and mobile devices (Nano X supports Bluetooth, others via synced connection). :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

Security Best Practices

• Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase — not even if someone claims to be support. Ledger will never ask for it. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
• Always verify the authenticity of your device using Ledger Live. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
• Download all software only from the official ledger.com domain. Avoid APKs or third‑party sites. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
• Keep your firmware up to date to benefit from security patches. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
• Do small test transactions first to ensure everything works correctly. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Device not recognized: Try another USB cable or port; ensure Ledger Live has appropriate permissions. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
• Unable to install app: Free up device memory; ensure you are using latest firmware. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}
• Forgot PIN: If you forget your PIN, you can reset the device but will need your recovery phrase to restore access. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}
• Lost recovery phrase: If this phrase is lost, funds become inaccessible. Backups are crucial. :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

Why Ledger Live® Stands Out

Ledger Live is more than just a wallet app—it’s built around ensuring full control, security, and usability. Key advantages include:

• Secure Element hardware that isolates private keys. :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}
• Open audits and transparency about security processes. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}
• Support for thousands of crypto assets, NFTs, staking, swaps, and more. :contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}
• Strong protection against phishing, fake apps, and counterfeit hardware. :contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}