Introduction — Why Ledger.com/Start matters
Web3 and DeFi bring powerful tools — but they also bring key-management responsibility. Ledger.com/Start is the official beginning point for users who want to access decentralized finance, NFTs, and dApps with hardware-backed keys and Ledger Live as the trusted gateway.
Who this guide is for
- Beginners who want a secure onboarding path to DeFi.
- Intermediate users bridging Ledger devices to Web3 wallets and dApps.
- Anyone wanting quick access to official Ledger resources.
Step 1 — Get the right hardware (Overview)
Ledger hardware wallets protect your private keys offline. Choose an official device and always buy from ledger.com or an authorized reseller.
Recommended devices
- Ledger Nano S Plus — Lightweight and affordable.
- Ledger Nano X — Mobile-friendly with Bluetooth (check latest specs on Ledger.com/products).
Important safety tip
Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for this phrase over email or chat. For more, see Ledger Security documentation.
Step 2 — Install Ledger Live and setup
Ledger Live is the official desktop & mobile companion app for firmware updates, app management, and transaction signing. Start at Ledger Live or follow the quick start at Ledger.com/Start.
Quick setup checklist
- Download Ledger Live from Ledger.com.
- Connect your device and follow on-screen instructions.
- Write down your recovery phrase on the provided card — keep it offline.
- Install only the apps you need via Ledger Live.
Step 3 — Connect to Web3 & DeFi dApps safely
Use Ledger Live or a supported Web3 wallet (e.g., MetaMask) together with your Ledger device. Always check the dApp’s URL and prefer official integrations—Ledger provides many trusted connectors and guidance on Ledger.com.
Best practices
- Verify the dApp URL and domain before connecting.
- Use a dedicated browser profile for Web3 activities.
- Inspect transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving.
Step 4 — Managing multiple accounts and chains
Ledger devices support many blockchains. Manage them via Ledger Live or third-party wallets that support Ledger. For advanced DeFi — such as staking, yield farming, or interacting with smart contracts — prefer read-only connections when possible and always sign with your device.
Tips
- Keep minimal balances in hot wallets; store long-term holdings offline.
- Create separate accounts for different purposes (trading, staking, NFT collecting).
Security checklist (quick)
Before you connect
- Buy only from ledger.com or an authorized reseller.
- Check firmware version via Ledger Live and update if necessary.
- Never enter your recovery phrase into a website or software.
Official resources (10 links)
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is Ledger.com/Start?
- A: Ledger.com/Start is the official Ledger onboarding portal with step-by-step setup instructions for Ledger devices and Ledger Live.
- Q: Can I use Ledger with MetaMask or other wallets?
- A: Yes. Ledger devices can connect to MetaMask and many other wallets as a hardware signer. Always follow official integration guides on Ledger.com.
- Q: Where do I download Ledger Live?
- A: Ledger Live downloads are available at Ledger.com/ledger-live. Download only from the official site.
- Q: What if I lose my device?
- A: Use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet to recover funds. Keep the recovery phrase secure and offline.
- Q: Does Ledger charge fees for DeFi?
- A: Ledger itself does not charge protocol fees — you will pay blockchain network fees (gas) when interacting with DeFi protocols.
Conclusion & next steps
Start your secure Web3 journey at Ledger.com/Start. Use Ledger Live, follow the security checklist, and consult the official resources listed above whenever in doubt. Approve transactions only after verifying details on your device screen.