Start Securely

Ledger.com/Start — Your secure pathway to managing crypto

This official guide provides a formal, practical, and security-first walkthrough to initialize your Ledger hardware wallet, install Ledger Live, learn best practices, and begin safeguarding and managing digital assets with confidence.

Step 1 — Unbox and verify

Only use the official Ledger packaging. Verify tamper-evident seals and follow the instructions to prevent supply-chain compromises.

Step 2 — Initialize and set PIN

Follow the on-device prompts to create a secure PIN and never share it. The PIN prevents unauthorized access to the device.

Step 3 — Record recovery phrase

Write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied card. Never store it electronically or share it with anyone.

Step 4 — Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official site and connect your device to install apps and manage accounts securely.

Comprehensive getting started content for Ledger.com/Start

Ledger.com/Start serves as your official onboarding guide to cryptocurrency security. As digital assets become more prevalent, ensuring they are safeguarded against threats is crucial. Ledger hardware wallets are built to create a secure offline vault for your private keys, ensuring your control and custody over your assets.

Understanding the importance of offline security

Online wallets, while convenient, are vulnerable to phishing, malware, and centralized exchange breaches. Ledger wallets remove this risk by keeping your private keys offline, accessible only through your device and confirmed by your physical input. This principle — known as cold storage — forms the foundation of blockchain self-custody.

Integrating Ledger Live into your crypto routine

Ledger Live isn’t merely a management app; it’s an all-in-one dashboard for your digital assets. With Ledger Live, you can monitor balances, stake tokens, connect to decentralized apps (DApps), and manage NFTs seamlessly. Regular software updates ensure continuous protection and compatibility with emerging protocols.

Educational resources and continuous learning

Ledger Academy, integrated within the Ledger ecosystem, provides an educational platform for both beginners and advanced users. Topics range from blockchain basics to complex DeFi strategies, helping users make informed decisions about asset security and portfolio management.

Security tips and common pitfalls

Customer support and troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during setup, the Ledger Support Center offers official troubleshooting steps, FAQs, and ticket assistance. Always verify you’re on the authentic support portal (support.ledger.com). Never use email links or third-party chat rooms to share device information.

Ledger ecosystem expansion

Ledger continues to expand its ecosystem through partnerships with blockchain developers, DeFi platforms, and NFT marketplaces. These collaborations allow secure transactions and smart contract interactions directly through your hardware wallet, maintaining safety and convenience simultaneously.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Ledger does not provide financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency markets are volatile, and users should conduct independent research before making financial decisions. Always download Ledger applications and firmware exclusively from official sources. Use at your own risk; Ledger is not responsible for losses due to user negligence or third-party software interactions.

Frequently asked questions

Can I restore my Ledger on a different device?

Yes. Use the 24-word recovery phrase to restore accounts on a compatible Ledger device. Ensure the restore is performed on an authentic device obtained from official channels.

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

If you lose your recovery phrase and your device is damaged or lost, funds cannot be recovered. Ledger cannot access recovery phrases. Consider secure, redundant physical backups.

Is my crypto ever held by Ledger?

No. Ledger never holds users’ crypto. Ledger devices hold private keys; transactions are signed locally on the device and broadcast through users’ chosen interfaces.