Ledger Start Guide | Official Site

Introduction

Ledger Start is your official entry point for securely managing cryptocurrency with Ledger hardware wallets. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for setup, installation, and best practices to protect your digital assets.

What is Ledger Start?

Ledger Start helps you initialize your Ledger hardware wallet and connect it to Ledger Live, the secure platform for crypto management. It ensures encrypted communication between your device and computer for safe asset management.

Tip: Always access Ledger Start through the official URL: Ledger.com/Start.

Unboxing Your Ledger Wallet

Step 1: Verify Packaging

Ensure your Ledger device packaging is intact and hasn’t been tampered with. Ledger provides a security seal that should be unbroken.

Step 2: Connect Device

Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger wallet to your computer. This allows Ledger Live to detect your device during setup.

Installing Ledger Live

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

Navigate to Ledger Live and select the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. Installation typically takes a few minutes.

Step 3: Launch Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live and connect your Ledger hardware wallet. The software should detect your device automatically.

Tip: Close other applications during installation to avoid conflicts.

Setting Up Your Wallet

New Wallet

When setting up a new wallet:

Create a secure PIN code on your Ledger device.
Write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the official recovery card.
Confirm the recovery phrase on your device when prompted.

Restoring an Existing Wallet

Select “Restore Wallet” and follow the instructions to recover an existing account from your recovery phrase.

Warning: Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger support will never request it.

Navigating Ledger Live

Ledger Live allows you to:

Check real-time cryptocurrency balances.
Send and receive assets securely.
Install and manage apps for different cryptocurrencies on your device.
Monitor portfolio performance and transaction history.

Security Features

Ledger Start ensures maximum security:

Encrypted communication between device and computer.
Private keys remain offline on the Ledger hardware wallet.
Firmware integrity verification during updates.
Notifications for software updates and suspicious activity.

Best Practices

Always keep Ledger Live updated.
Never store your recovery phrase digitally.
Disconnect your device when not in use.
Enable two-factor authentication for connected accounts.

Troubleshooting

Device Not Detected

If your Ledger device is not recognized:

Reconnect the USB cable or try another port.
Restart Ledger Live and your computer.
Ensure the device is powered on and Ledger Live is allowed through firewall settings.

Firmware Update Issues

Make sure the device is fully charged. Follow prompts carefully, and do not disconnect during firmware updates.

Advanced Tips

For advanced users:

Manage multiple wallets within Ledger Live.
Use Ledger with DeFi platforms and third-party apps.
Store recovery phrases securely offline in multiple locations.
Monitor portfolio performance and transaction trends in Ledger Live.

Conclusion

Ledger.com/Start® provides a secure, streamlined way to begin managing your cryptocurrency. Following this guide ensures your Ledger wallet and digital assets remain safe while you take full advantage of Ledger Live’s features.