Everything You Need to Know About Ledger.com/start (2025 Edition)
A comprehensive guide to setting up and using your Ledger device and Ledger Live app for the most secure crypto experience.
Start the GuideStep 1: The Initial Setup Process
Unboxing and Initializing Your Device
The journey to secure your crypto begins the moment you unbox your Ledger device. The first step is to visit the official Ledger.com/start page. This page is your centralized hub for all the necessary software downloads and initial instructions. Once there, you will be guided through a series of prompts to set up your device.
The process involves powering on your device, selecting your language, and choosing between setting up a new device or restoring an existing one. For a brand new device, you will be guided to create a new PIN code. This PIN is your personal security key, providing local access to your device.
Downloading Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that acts as the user interface for your Ledger device. It is a crucial component for managing your assets, installing apps on your device, and verifying your transactions. Make sure to download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger.com/start website to avoid counterfeit software.
The application is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as iOS and Android. Once installed, it will help you connect to your device and complete the remaining setup steps, including creating accounts and sending your first transaction.
Step 2: Securing Your Recovery Phrase
Your **24-word recovery phrase** is the master key to your crypto assets. It's generated offline by your Ledger device and is the only way to restore your funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. This phrase is a one-time secret that you must write down and store in a safe, secure place—away from your computer and away from others.
Ledger will provide you with a recovery sheet to write down the phrase. You must do this manually and **never** save it digitally. Do not take a photo of it, store it in a note on your phone, or type it on any computer. The security of your assets depends entirely on the secrecy of this phrase.
Step 3: Mastering Ledger Live
Installing Cryptocurrency Apps
With your device set up, you can now use the "Manager" section in Ledger Live to install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano) requires its own app to be installed on your Ledger device. The Ledger Nano S Plus and Nano X have different storage capacities, so you may need to uninstall apps if you run out of space, but your crypto will always be secure and accessible via your recovery phrase.
Receiving and Sending Assets
To receive crypto, simply navigate to the "Receive" tab in Ledger Live, select the account, and verify the address on your physical Ledger device. This crucial step ensures that the address has not been tampered with. To send, input the recipient's address and the amount, then confirm all transaction details on the Ledger device itself. The physical verification on the device's screen is the ultimate security check, confirming that you are signing the transaction you intended to.
Your Crypto, Secured by Ledger
By following these steps, you can confidently navigate your crypto journey with the peace of mind that your assets are protected by a state-of-the-art hardware wallet.
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