Why Ledger.com/start Matters
When you receive a Ledger hardware wallet (for example, Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X), the first and most important step is to initialize it via Ledger.com/start. That site ensures your device firmware is genuine, downloads the Ledger Live manager, and walks you through generating a secure recovery phrase. Using the official portal prevents phishing and guarantees compatibility with Ledger's ecosystem.
Step-by-step Setup (Essentials)
1. Visit Ledger.com/start and select your device model. Follow instructions to download Ledger Live (official desktop/mobile app). Connect your Ledger device and complete the initial firmware validation.
2. Create a PIN on the device. This PIN protects the device from unauthorized physical access—choose a PIN you can remember but is not trivially guessable.
3. Write down the recovery phrase (usually 24 words) on the provided card. Do not store the phrase digitally, photograph it, or share it. This phrase is the ultimate backup for your keys.
Tip: Verify device authenticity on the portal before proceeding. Ledger’s onboarding checks signatures and firmware integrity.
Security Best Practices
Never enter your recovery phrase into a website or app. Use only Ledger Live and the physical device to confirm transactions. Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated; updates frequently include security hardening. Consider a separate, encrypted location for the written recovery phrase and explore metal backups for resilience against fire or water damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I initialize my Ledger without Ledger Live?
While advanced users may use third-party integrations, the recommended path is Ledger Live via Ledger.com/start to ensure authenticity and proper firmware checks.
What if I lose my recovery phrase?
Without the recovery phrase you cannot restore funds if the device is lost or damaged. If you suspect it is compromised, transfer assets to a new wallet and generate a fresh recovery phrase immediately.