Ledger.com/Start
Your Gateway to Secure Crypto Storage
Welcome to the beginning of your journey into self-custody. Follow this comprehensive guide to set up your Ledger device, install Ledger Live, and secure your digital assets with industry-leading cold storage technology.
Why Choose Ledger?
In the world of cryptocurrency, security is paramount. Ledger hardware wallets provide the highest level of security for your crypto assets by keeping your private keys offline.
Cold Storage Security
Your private keys never leave the device. By keeping them offline in "cold storage," you are protected against online hacks, malware, and phishing attacks that threaten software wallets.
Ledger Live App
The companion app for your device. Buy, sell, swap, and grow your crypto securely. Manage over 5,500 coins and tokens directly from your desktop or mobile device.
Web3 Ready
Connect to decentralized apps (dApps), manage NFTs, and explore the DeFi ecosystem with the peace of mind that only a hardware wallet can provide.
The Ledger Family
Ledger Nano S Plus
The perfect entry-level hardware wallet for beginners. Secure, simple, and powerful.
Ledger Nano X
Bluetooth-enabled for on-the-go management. Connects to iOS and Android wirelessly.
Ledger Stax
The next generation of hardware wallets with a curved E Ink touchscreen interface.
Getting Started with Ledger.com/Start
Follow these essential steps to initialize your device and secure your assets. Take your time—security requires attention to detail.
Unbox and Connect
When you first receive your Ledger device, ensure the box is sealed and the contents are intact. Inside, you should find the device, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and a keychain strap. Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device will power on and display the Ledger logo.
Download Ledger Live
Navigate to Ledger.com/start on your browser to download the official Ledger Live application. This software is the bridge between your hardware wallet and the blockchain. It allows you to manage your accounts, update firmware, and install apps. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Get Ledger LiveInitialize Device & Set PIN
Follow the on-screen instructions on your Ledger device. You will be asked to choose a PIN code. This code unlocks your device and authorizes transactions. Choose a PIN between 4 and 8 digits that is difficult to guess but easy for you to remember.
The Recovery Phrase (Crucial Step)
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase.This is the master key to your funds.Write down each word carefully on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order displayed. Verify each word as prompted by the device.
WARNING: Never take a photo of your recovery phrase, never save it on a computer or cloud storage, and never share it with anyone. Ledger Support will never ask for it.
Install Apps & Manage Assets
Once initialized, open Ledger Live and go to the "My Ledger" tab. Allow the secure connection on your device. From here, you can install apps for the cryptocurrencies you wish to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP). After installing an app, you can add an account to your portfolio and start receiving funds.
Advanced Security Features
Ledger devices are built around a Secure Element chip, the same technology used in passports and credit cards.
Secure Element (SE)
Unlike other hardware wallets that use standard microcontrollers, Ledger uses a certified Secure Element (CC EAL5+) chip. This protects your device against sophisticated physical attacks and side-channel analysis.
BOLOS Operating System
Ledger's custom operating system, BOLOS, isolates apps from each other and from the device internals. Even if one app were compromised, the rest of your device remains secure.
Genuine Check
Every time you connect your device to Ledger Live, a cryptographic challenge verifies the integrity of your device. This ensures your hardware has not been tampered with or replaced by a counterfeit.
Root of Trust
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the root of all your private keys. It follows the BIP-39 standard, meaning you can recover your wallet on any compatible device if your Ledger is lost or damaged.
Security Best Practices
• Never Share Your Seed
Your 24-word recovery phrase is for your eyes only. Anyone who has it can access your funds.
• Verify on Device
Always verify transaction details (address and amount) on the physical screen of your Ledger device before approving.
• Official Sources Only
Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com. Avoid clicking ads on search engines when looking for crypto software.
• Ignore DMs
Ledger support will never DM you on social media asking for your recovery phrase or PIN.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about setting up your Ledger device.
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