Official® | Lédger.com/Start® | Getting Started
Ledger.io/Start — Complete Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
Introduction
If you’ve purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, your next important step is setting it up correctly and securely. The official onboarding path begins at ledger.io/start, which guides users through installation, device initialization, and wallet protection. This setup process ensures your crypto assets remain safe from malware, phishing attempts, and unauthorized access.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting started — from preparing your device to installing Ledger Live, creating accounts, securing your recovery phrase, and safely managing your digital assets. Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or upgrading your security setup, following the right process from the beginning is critical.
What Is Ledger.io/Start?
Ledger.io/start is the official setup portal for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides verified instructions and download links for Ledger Live, the companion app used to manage crypto assets, install apps, and perform transactions. Using the official start page reduces the risk of downloading malicious software or following incorrect setup steps from unofficial sources.
The page acts as a secure onboarding hub that helps users:
- Download the Ledger Live app
- Initialize a new device
- Restore an existing wallet
- Verify device authenticity
- Learn security best practices
- Access tutorials and troubleshooting help
Always use the official start page rather than links from emails or advertisements to avoid phishing risks.
Why Proper Setup Matters
Setting up your hardware wallet properly is not just a technical step — it is a security foundation. A correctly initialized Ledger device keeps your private keys offline, meaning they never touch your computer or the internet. This dramatically reduces exposure to remote attacks.
Improper setup can lead to serious problems such as:
- Lost recovery phrases
- Weak PIN codes
- Compromised backups
- Fake software installations
- Asset loss due to phishing
Taking the time to follow each step carefully ensures long-term asset protection.
Before You Begin
Before visiting the start page and beginning setup, make sure you have everything ready. Preparation makes the process smoother and helps avoid mistakes.
You should have:
- Your new Ledger device
- A computer or smartphone
- A secure internet connection
- A private environment (no cameras or observers)
- A pen and recovery sheets (included in the box)
Avoid setting up your wallet in public places or on shared computers. Privacy during setup is essential.
Step 1 — Visit the Official Start Page
Open your web browser and manually type the official start address into the URL bar. Do not rely on search ads or third-party links. Bookmark the page once verified so you can return safely in the future.
The start page will prompt you to select your device model and platform, then guide you to download the Ledger Live application.
Always double-check the website address spelling before proceeding.
Step 2 — Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official software used to manage your wallet. It allows you to:
- Install blockchain apps
- Create accounts
- Send and receive crypto
- View balances
- Update firmware
- Verify device authenticity
Download Ledger Live only from the official start page. Install it like any other desktop or mobile application. Once installed, launch the app and select “Get Started.”
Never download Ledger Live from file-sharing sites or unofficial sources.
Step 3 — Initialize Your Ledger Device
When you connect your Ledger device for the first time, you will be prompted to either:
- Set up as a new device
- Restore from recovery phrase
Choose “Set up as new device” if this is your first wallet. The device will then generate your private keys internally. These keys never leave the device.
You will create a PIN code during this step. Choose a PIN that is hard to guess and not used elsewhere. Avoid birthdays or repeated numbers.
Enter the PIN directly on the device using its buttons — never on your computer keyboard.
Step 4 — Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the most important part of the setup process. The phrase is the master backup of your wallet and can restore your funds if your device is lost or damaged.
Follow these rules strictly:
- Write each word in order
- Use the provided recovery sheets
- Never take photos of the phrase
- Never store it digitally
- Never share it with anyone
- Never enter it on websites
After writing the words, the device will ask you to confirm them. This ensures your backup is accurate.
Anyone with this phrase can control your assets — treat it like the master key to your vault.
Step 5 — Verify Device Authenticity
After initialization, Ledger Live performs a genuine device check. This confirms that your device is authentic and has not been tampered with. The verification happens automatically through secure cryptographic checks.
If the authenticity check fails, stop using the device immediately and contact official support. Do not attempt to continue setup on a device that fails verification.
Step 6 — Install Crypto Apps
Ledger devices use small blockchain apps to manage different cryptocurrencies. Through Ledger Live, you can install apps for networks you plan to use.
Examples include:
- Bitcoin app
- Ethereum app
- Polygon app
- Solana app
- Other supported chains
Installing an app does not create an account yet — it simply enables support for that blockchain on your device.
You can uninstall and reinstall apps later without losing funds, because assets are tied to your recovery phrase, not the app storage.
Step 7 — Add Accounts
Once apps are installed, you can add accounts in Ledger Live. Accounts allow you to receive and send crypto assets.
To add an account:
- Open Ledger Live
- Click “Add Account”
- Select the crypto asset
- Open the matching app on your device
- Approve the connection
Ledger Live will scan the blockchain and create your account dashboard.
You can create multiple accounts for organization or privacy purposes.
Step 8 — Receive Your First Crypto
To receive crypto safely:
- Click Receive in Ledger Live
- Select the account
- Verify the address shown on your device screen
- Match it exactly with the address in Ledger Live
- Share the verified address with the sender
Always verify addresses on the device screen — malware can alter addresses shown only on your computer.
Small test transactions are recommended before sending large amounts.
Step 9 — Keep Your Wallet Secure
Security does not end after setup. Follow ongoing best practices:
- Keep your recovery phrase offline
- Store backups in secure locations
- Never reveal your 24 words
- Ignore urgent support messages
- Avoid browser wallet popups asking for recovery phrases
- Update firmware only through Ledger Live
- Use strong device PINs
Remember: legitimate support will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
New users often make avoidable errors. Watch out for these:
- Taking photos of recovery words
- Saving recovery phrases in cloud storage
- Clicking sponsored links to download software
- Entering recovery phrases into websites
- Sharing wallet screens publicly
- Using simple PIN codes
- Skipping address verification
Avoiding these mistakes greatly increases your security.
Troubleshooting Setup Issues
If you encounter problems:
- Restart Ledger Live
- Try another USB port or cable
- Update the app
- Check device firmware prompts
- Use the built-in help section
- Contact official support through verified channels
Never accept help from strangers in social media comments or direct messages.
Final Thoughts
Setting up your wallet through ledger.io/start ensures you follow the correct and secure onboarding path. The process is designed to protect your private keys, guide safe backup creation, and help you confidently manage your digital assets.
Take your time with each step, especially recovery phrase storage and device verification. A careful setup today prevents irreversible losses tomorrow. Once completed, you’ll have one of the strongest forms of self-custody available — full control of your crypto secured by hardware protection.