Start with
confidence.

Begin with the official route

Searching for ledger.com/start usually means you are ready to set up a Ledger device or install Ledger Live. Take a moment to check the address you have opened. This independent guide explains the process, but it is not an official Ledger support page. For downloads, account actions, and device-specific instructions, navigate to Ledger’s official website yourself by typing the address into your browser. Avoid links in direct messages, sponsored results that look unfamiliar, and pages that imitate a trusted brand. A genuine setup should never begin with pressure, a countdown, or a request to disclose your recovery phrase.

Download Ledger Live for your platform

Ledger Live is the companion application used to manage supported Ledger devices and view compatible accounts. Choose the official desktop installer for Windows, macOS, or Linux from Ledger’s website, or find the mobile app through the official Apple App Store or Google Play listing. Check the publisher and listing details before installing. Do not use third-party download portals or unofficial browser extensions. Keep your operating system reasonably current, download over a trusted connection, and let the installer finish before connecting your device. If the page or application looks unexpected, stop and return to the official source using a fresh browser window.

Set up a new device with care

Open Ledger Live and follow the prompts to get started. Connect your hardware wallet as directed and use its buttons to navigate the device itself. If you are initializing a new device, create a PIN directly on the device and write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery materials, in private. The phrase is a backup that can restore access to your wallet; anyone who obtains it may be able to access your crypto assets. Store it securely offline and separately from your device. Never photograph it, put it in cloud storage, paste it into a computer, or share it with another person. Ledger staff cannot recover or replace a phrase they never receive.

Connecting an existing Ledger

If your Ledger is already initialized, choose the option for an existing device and complete the app’s genuine verification steps. A recovery phrase should only be entered on the device during its legitimate recovery flow, never into a website, desktop keyboard, chat, or phone call. Confirm that the device display matches what the app says it is asking you to approve. When adding accounts or viewing balances, remember that the application interface is not a substitute for checking transaction details on the hardware screen. You remain responsible for confirming each action before authorizing it.

How updates work

Updates can apply to Ledger Live or to the firmware on your hardware device; they are different processes and may happen at different times. Ledger Live can show notifications when an application update is available. You can also check through Ledger’s official site or the app’s own settings. For device firmware, use the instructions shown in genuine Ledger Live and follow every step carefully. Confirm that your device is charged or connected as requested and do not disconnect it during an update unless the official instructions say otherwise. Availability, supported operating systems, and interface labels may change, so rely on the current in-app guidance rather than old screenshots or instructions from strangers online.

Check before you install

Before an update, make sure you understand which component is changing and that you opened the genuine application yourself. Download only from Ledger’s official website or official mobile storefront. Never install an unexpected file sent over email or messaging. No legitimate app update, support agent, or troubleshooting procedure should ask you to reveal your recovery phrase. If anything asks for it, stop immediately; do not continue, even if the page uses Ledger branding or claims your assets are at risk. When in doubt, close the page and consult the help resources reached from Ledger’s official site.

A safer everyday routine

Use a screen lock on your computer and phone, keep their software updated, and avoid managing a wallet on a device you do not control. Bookmark the official website after checking the address rather than relying on links from search results each time. Before confirming a transaction, read the network, destination, and amount on your Ledger device screen. If the details are unfamiliar, reject the action and investigate. Consider sending a small test transaction when learning a new workflow, while accounting for network fees and the risks of every transfer. Digital asset transactions are generally irreversible; a careful pause is valuable protection.

When something does not look right

Stop if your device, application, or browser shows unfamiliar warnings, asks you to install remote-access software, or demands your recovery phrase. Do not trust a person simply because they contact you first and claim to be support. Navigate independently to Ledger’s official support resources and describe the issue without including secret information. Never share PINs, passwords, recovery words, or private keys in a support ticket. If you believe your phrase has been exposed, use official guidance immediately from a secure device and understand that moving assets to a newly secured wallet may be necessary. Do not follow recovery instructions sent by unsolicited helpers.

Ready to begin?

For the safest start at ledger.com/start, download Ledger Live from the official source, initialize or connect your device by following the on-screen prompts, and keep your recovery phrase offline. Check both app and firmware updates through trusted, official channels, and approve only transactions you have verified on your hardware wallet. Take your time: there is no need to rush a setup that protects long-term access. This guide is general information, not financial advice or official Ledger support. Product names, supported devices, features, and instructions can change. Always consult current Ledger documentation for steps specific to your model, operating system, and region.