Ledger Start — Secure Your Crypto (2025 Official Guide)
Begin your crypto security journey at Ledger Start—the only official setup portal for Ledger hardware wallets. In 2025, safeguarding digital assets means trusting proven tools, secure initialization guides, and transparent software. This page unlocks all the steps, features, and security advice needed to use your Ledger wallet with confidence, including Nano X, Nano S Plus, Ledger Stax, and Ledger Live.
Protect Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 5,500+ other tokens with the most trusted cold storage solution on the market[web:37][web:38][web:40][web:41].
What is Ledger Start?
Ledger Start (Ledger.com/start) is the official onboarding and initialization platform for all Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a secure, step-by-step setup experience, verified device authenticity checks, and direct download links for the Ledger Live app—all managed by Ledger’s global security team.[web:37][web:38][web:41]
Always access Ledger.com/start directly—never use third-party download links or app stores to avoid phishing and fake wallet apps[web:37][web:38].
Ledger Hardware Wallets (2025)
- Ledger Nano X: Bluetooth-ready, mobile and desktop support, Secure Element chip[web:37][web:38][web:40].
- Ledger Nano S Plus: Entry-level wallet, USB setup, offline key storage, multi-app support[web:37][web:42].
- Ledger Stax: Touchscreen, E Ink display, customizable lock screen, highest storage capacity[web:46][web:43].
- Certified Secure Element chip (EAL5+) in every device, same grade as modern passports[web:37][web:38][web:40].
- Offline generation of 24-word recovery phrase—the only way to restore access.
- Device authentication (“Genuine Check”) before setup to avoid tampering or malware[web:38][web:41].
Step-by-Step Onboarding: Ledger.com/Start
- Unbox your Ledger device and ensure it's sealed and untampered.
- Navigate to Ledger.com/start in your browser—only use official links.[web:37][web:38]
- Select device (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax) and follow tailored setup instructions.[web:38][web:41]
- Download and install Ledger Live for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android.[web:37][web:38][web:44]
- Connect your device via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X, Stax) and begin initialization.[web:37][web:42][web:41]
- Choose “Set up as new device” and generate your 24-word recovery phrase, written offline only.
- Set a unique device PIN. Ledger never sees your PIN or phrase—this is your sole backup.[web:37][web:38][web:41]
- Device performs “Genuine Check” to verify authenticity using secure chip — avoid using if warning appears.[web:38][web:41]
- After setup, link device with Ledger Live for portfolio tracking, send/receive, buy/swap, NFT support, and staking.[web:37][web:38][web:40][web:44]
Ledger Live App — Central Dashboard for Crypto
- Multi-currency support for 5,500+ coins/tokens: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, BNB Chain, and more[web:40][web:38].
- Portfolio tracker: asset allocation, history, rebalance tools, and live price feeds[web:39][web:40].
- Buy, swap, or stake crypto from inside the app (MoonPay, Ramp, Paraswap, Lido Finance integrations)[web:38][web:39][web:40].
- NFT gallery: manage Ethereum and Polygon NFTs, verify and send collectibles securely[web:39][web:40][web:38].
- Cross-chain bridging (ETH, Polygon, Arbitrum, BSC, Aurora) for asset migration[web:38][web:40].
- Web3 integrations via WalletConnect and Ledger Extension—connect with DeFi and DApp networks securely[web:38][web:40].
- On-device transaction approval—physical button press required for any move or swap[web:37][web:38][web:40].
Ledger Security Benefits
- Genuine Check before every setup ensures device authenticity, rejecting counterfeit hardware[web:38][web:41].
- Secure Element chip stores private keys offline—never exposed to online threats or app vulnerabilities[web:37][web:38][web:40].
- Full PIN lock and recovery phrase backup—if device is lost or damaged, funds can be restored on new units[web:38][web:41].
- No cloud storage; keys never leave the device or sync online—even Ledger cannot access user accounts[web:38][web:41].
- Physical transaction verification—nothing moves without user approval on hardware device[web:37][web:38][web:40].
- Device passphrase: create “hidden” wallets for extra layers of protection (optional)[web:38].
- Regular firmware and app updates for security enhancements[web:37][web:38][web:44].
Compare: Ledger Start vs Other Wallets
| Feature |
Ledger Start |
MetaMask |
Trust Wallet |
| Hardware-Based Security |
Yes (Secure Element)[web:37][web:38] |
No |
No |
| Offline Key Storage |
Yes[web:37] |
No |
No |
| Device Authentication |
Physical button on device[web:38][web:41] |
No |
No |
| Multi-Chain & NFT Support |
Yes[web:40][web:38] |
Yes |
Yes |
| Staking in-App |
Yes[web:38][web:40] |
Limited |
Limited |
| Transaction Approval |
Physical device only[web:37][web:38][web:40] |
Browser-based |
Browser-based |
| Mobile Setup (Bluetooth) |
Yes (Nano X, Stax)[web:37][web:38] |
No |
Yes |
| Cloud Recovery Option |
No |
Optional |
Optional |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Ledger.com/start the only official onboarding site?
Yes. Always use Ledger.com/start to guarantee the authenticity and safety of your device and software[web:37][web:38][web:41].
Can I buy crypto inside Ledger Live?
Yes, with direct integration to regulated providers for fiat onramps. Always initiate purchases through Ledger Live[web:38][web:40].
Can Ledger recover my wallet if I lose the device?
No, only the 24-word recovery phrase can restore your funds. Never share this with anyone or store it digitally[web:37][web:38].
Is Ledger Live compatible with my OS?
Ledger Live supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android[web:37][web:40][web:44].
How does Ledger support NFTs?
Ledger Live allows you to view, verify, and manage Ethereum/Polygon-based NFTs; always confirm addresses and collections before sending[web:38][web:40][web:39].
Can I stake crypto with my Ledger?
Yes, including ETH, ATOM, DOT, SOL, TON, and others directly in Ledger Live[web:38][web:40].
Is there a mobile setup for Ledger wallets?
Yes, Nano X and Ledger Stax support Bluetooth pairing for secure mobile setup with Ledger Live[web:37][web:38][web:40].