Getting started with ®ledger.com/start
This guide walks through the official setup flow available at ®ledger.com/start. Follow the on-screen instructions on Ledger’s site and use only verified downloads. This document is informational and not a substitute for the official documentation.
What you’ll need
- Your sealed Ledger device out of the box (unopened package).
- A computer or mobile device with a supported browser and a USB or compatible cable.
- A pen and the recovery sheet included in the package for recording your recovery words offline.
- Time and a quiet place—setup is fastest when uninterrupted.
Step-by-step setup (official flow)
- Inspect the packaging. Ensure the box seal is intact and that there are no signs of tampering. Ledger devices are shipped with tamper evidence—do not use a device if packaging looks compromised.
- Open ®ledger.com/start from your browser. On the official start page, choose the model you own. The site provides the recommended application to download for your platform.
- Download the official application. Use the download links on the start page to install Ledger’s companion application. Only download software from the official start page to avoid counterfeit packages or fake sites.
- Power on the device and follow prompts. Connect the device to your computer or mobile device and follow the on-device instructions. The device will guide you through creating a new setup or restoring from an existing set of recovery words if you already have a backup.
- Create your device access code. When prompted on the hardware device, choose a memorable code made up of digits as directed by the device. This code protects the device locally. Store it mentally and avoid writing it alongside your recovery words.
- Write down your recovery words offline. The device will display a series of words — write them on the supplied recovery sheet exactly as shown. Keep this sheet in a secure, offline location. Never store recovery words digitally or share them with anyone.
- Install supported apps for your assets. Using the companion application, install the specific asset applications you plan to use. The companion app displays which assets are supported and handles application updates.
- Verify a sample transaction. To confirm everything is working, follow the companion app to receive a small test amount to an address displayed on your device. Confirm the receive address on the device screen before approving any transfers.
Safety and best practices
Adopt these practical steps to keep your holdings secure over time:
- Only ever use official sources for downloads and guides (start at ®ledger.com/start).
- Keep your recovery words offline and in at least one secure backup location, preferably in separate physical safes.
- Do not enter recovery words, or your device access code, into websites or apps. Ledger will never ask you for those words via email or web forms.
- Keep firmware and companion application updated via official channels to benefit from security improvements.
- Be cautious with physical access: treat your device like a bank card or passport; limit who can handle it.
Troubleshooting common issues
If something does not behave as expected, try the following:
- If a download fails, verify your connection and retry from ®ledger.com/start.
- If the device does not power on, check the cable or try a different port; only use the provided cable or one recommended by the manufacturer.
- If you suspect tampering, stop and contact official support channels listed on the start page. Do not attempt to use a suspicious device.
Advanced tips for long-term safety
- Consider metal backup solutions for recovery words if you expect long-term storage in varied climates.
- Use multiple geographically separated secure storage locations for recovery backups.
- Limit the number of people who know where your backups are stored; share access only with trusted individuals through clear inheritance instructions.
Where to find official help
If you need official guides, firmware releases, or verified support resources, start at ®ledger.com/start. The official site provides step-by-step articles, videos, and contact options to get certified support.