Welcome to Ledger.com/Start
Your Gateway to Crypto Security
Set up your Ledger hardware wallet in minutes and take full control of your cryptocurrency. Follow our official step-by-step guide to secure your digital assets with military-grade encryption and world-class security.
Complete Setup Guide for Ledger.com/Start
Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. Follow these six essential steps to ensure your cryptocurrency is protected with industry-leading security from day one.
Download Ledger Live
Visit Ledger.com/Start and download the official Ledger Live application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android). Ledger Live is your gateway to managing all your cryptocurrency accounts securely. Never download from third-party sources to avoid malicious software.
Connect Your Ledger Device
Unbox your Ledger Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus and connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable. For Nano X users, you can also connect via Bluetooth on mobile devices. Ensure you're using the original cable that came with your device for optimal security and connectivity.
Initialize and Create PIN
Follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live to set up your device as new. Create a secure 4-8 digit PIN code that you'll use to unlock your device. Choose a PIN that's memorable to you but difficult for others to guess. Never share your PIN with anyone, including Ledger support.
Write Down Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase). This is the master key to your crypto assets. Write each word carefully on the recovery sheets provided with your device, in the exact order shown. Store these sheets in a secure, offline location. Never take photos or store digitally.
Verify Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm your recovery phrase by selecting specific words in order. This critical step ensures you've correctly written down your backup. If you make a mistake, start the setup process again. This verification protects you from losing access to your funds.
Install Apps and Add Accounts
Open Ledger Live and install the cryptocurrency apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) directly onto your Ledger device. Then add accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage. You can now receive, send, and securely store your digital assets. Keep your device firmware updated for the latest security features.
Security Best Practices
Always verify you're on the official Ledger.com website before downloading software. Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase via email, phone, or any other channel. Keep your recovery phrase offline and private at all times. If anyone asks for it, it's a scam. For additional security, consider purchasing directly from Ledger's official store to avoid counterfeit devices.
Why Choose Ledger for Crypto Security?
Ledger hardware wallets provide unparalleled security for your cryptocurrency investments. With over a decade of expertise in digital asset protection, Ledger combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design.
Military-Grade Security
Ledger hardware wallets use a certified secure chip (CC EAL5+) to protect your private keys. Your keys never leave the device and are isolated from your computer or smartphone, making them immune to remote hacking attempts.
Complete Offline Storage
Your private keys are stored completely offline in cold storage, protected from online threats, malware, and phishing attacks. Even when connected to your computer, your keys remain secure within the device's isolated environment.
Verify Every Transaction
The built-in screen on your Ledger device allows you to verify and approve every transaction before it's signed. This ensures what you see on your computer screen matches what's actually being sent, protecting against malicious software.
Regular Security Updates
Ledger continuously improves security through firmware updates delivered through Ledger Live. These updates add new features, support additional cryptocurrencies, and patch any discovered vulnerabilities to keep your assets protected.
Understanding Hardware Wallet Security
A hardware wallet like Ledger provides a significant security advantage over software wallets and exchanges. When you store cryptocurrency on an exchange, you're trusting a third party with your private keys. If that exchange is hacked or goes bankrupt, your funds could be at risk. With Ledger, you maintain complete control—your keys, your crypto.
The Ledger device generates and stores your private keys in a secure element chip that's physically isolated from the internet. This chip is the same technology used in passports and credit cards, certified to resist sophisticated attacks. Even if your computer is compromised with malware, your crypto remains safe because the private keys never leave the device.
Ledger.com/Start guides you through the initial setup process, ensuring you understand critical security concepts like recovery phrases, PIN codes, and transaction verification. This education empowers you to make informed decisions about your crypto security. Whether you're a beginner starting your crypto journey or an experienced investor protecting substantial holdings, Ledger provides peace of mind that your digital assets are secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about Ledger.com/Start, hardware wallet setup, and cryptocurrency security.
Need more help? Visit our comprehensive support center
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