What is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official entry point provided by Ledger to download the Ledger Live application, access setup instructions, and follow the manufacturer's guided onboarding for Ledger hardware wallets. Using the official start page reduces exposure to imitators and helps ensure you follow the vendor-approved setup path.
Why follow the official guide?
A vendor-sanctioned workflow minimizes the risk of tampered installers or misleading instructions. Ledger’s official pages include current installers, compatibility notes for different operating systems, and notes on verifying package integrity. Using the official path also ensures you access the correct firmware updates and recommendations for secure storage of recovery information.
Before you begin — security preparations
Prepare a clean workspace. Avoid public Wi‑Fi, use your personal computer, and ensure your OS and browser are updated. Do not type your recovery phrase into any computer or phone — write it on the included recovery card and store it offline. If possible, use an air-gapped machine for seed backup and consider a tamper-evident envelope for long-term storage.
Step-by-step setup (concise)
- Go to Ledger.com/start — type the address or use a trusted bookmark.
- Download Ledger Live for your operating system and run the installer.
- Open Ledger Live and follow the app prompts: select "Initialize as new device" or "Restore from recovery phrase" depending on your situation.
- When the device asks, create a PIN and write down the recovery phrase displayed on the device — never on a computer.
- Confirm the recovery phrase on your Ledger device when prompted; the device will ask you to validate a few words.
- Finish the onboarding in Ledger Live and add the crypto accounts you plan to use.
Verifying downloads and authenticity
Where Ledger provides cryptographic checksums or signatures, validate them before running installers. Check the HTTPS certificate of the Ledger site by clicking the lock icon in your browser and make sure the domain is correct. If something looks off — mismatched hashes, unusual prompts, or unsolicited update requests — stop and contact Ledger support.
Common issues and fixes
If Ledger Live won't detect your device, try a different USB cable (preferably the official one), switch ports, or reinstall Ledger Live. On macOS you may need to grant permission to kernel extensions or allow the app in security settings. For Linux, check udev rules and permissions. If firmware update stalls, do not disconnect — follow the recovery guidance provided by Ledger carefully.
Maintenance and long-term care
Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date, but treat firmware updates with caution. Always read release notes and back up your recovery phrase before major changes. Regularly audit your recovery storage and consider splitting high-value recovery shares across secure locations using an accountable scheme like Shamir’s Secret Sharing if supported by your device model.
Privacy and operational tips
Use separate accounts for different purposes, avoid unnecessary account linking, and consider transacting through privacy-enhancing tools if anonymity is a priority. Remember, your public addresses are visible on-chain; treat any linked metadata carefully.
Wrap-up
Following the official Ledger.com/start flow and these practical safety steps will get you connected securely and reduce the chance of compromise. Use the official support channels for unusual issues, and maintain physical safeguards for your recovery phrase — it is the ultimate key to your crypto holdings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1) Is Ledger.com/start the only safe place to download Ledger Live?
- No — the official Ledger domain and Ledger Live app stores are the recommended sources. Avoid mirrors and third-party repositories. When in doubt, use Ledger's official site and verify page certificates and download integrity.
- 2) Can I restore my wallet on any Ledger device?
- Most Ledger hardware devices support standard recovery phrases, but device models may vary in features. Check Ledger documentation to confirm compatibility before restoring a high-value wallet.
- 3) What if I lose my recovery phrase?
- If the recovery phrase is lost and the device becomes nonfunctional, you cannot recover funds. It's critical to store the recovery phrase safely and consider multi-location backups with trusted custodial arrangements if necessary.
- 4) How often should I update firmware?
- Update firmware when official Ledger release notes indicate important security fixes or feature updates. Always back up your recovery phrase before applying firmware updates.
- 5) Is it safe to use Ledger on public computers or networks?
- Prefer not to. Public computers and networks can expose you to risk. Use a private, secure machine and network for initial setup and high-value transactions.