Ledger.com/start: Your First Step to Ultimate Crypto Security

Congratulations. By arriving here, you've taken the most important decision in your crypto journey: choosing security. This is where ownership begins. This is where you move from trusting others to trusting yourself. Ledger.com/start is your dedicated launchpad to setting up your hardware wallet and transitioning to true, sovereign self-custody.

Why "Start" Matters: The Bridge to Your Digital Sovereignty

Buying a Ledger device is the first step. Setting it up correctly is what makes you secure. This guided process ensures that from the very first moment, your private keys—the absolute proof of ownership for your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and all other digital assets—are generated in an unhackable environment and remain under your sole control.

For Everyone, From First-Time Buyer to Seasoned Trader
Whether you're unpacking your first crypto wallet or consolidating a multi-chain portfolio into secure cold storage, the principles remain the same. Security is not negotiable, and simplicity is essential. The setup you complete here at ledger.com/start lays an unshakable foundation.

Before You Begin: What You'll Need

To ensure a smooth start, please have the following ready:

Your new Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax).
A computer (Windows 10+, macOS 10+, Linux) or a smartphone (iOS 15+ or Android 8+).
A USB cable (included) for Nano S Plus, or a USB cable/Bluetooth for Nano X.
A pen and your Recovery Sheet (included in the box). Crucially: Never use a digital device to store your recovery phrase.

The Ledger Setup Journey: A Visual Guide

Phase 1: Download & Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your secure command center. It’s the only app you need to manage your entire crypto and NFT portfolio.

Action: Navigate to Ledger.com/ledger-live or your official app store.
Security Check: Always verify you are downloading from our official sources to avoid counterfeit software.

Phase 2: Initialize Your Hardware Wallet

This is where your unique digital identity is created, offline and secure.

Connect your Ledger device via USB (enable Bluetooth for Nano X on mobile).
Follow the on-screen prompts in Ledger Live.
Your device will generate your 24-word Recovery Phrase. This phrase appears only on your device's screen.

Phase 3: The Most Critical Step: Backup Your Recovery Phrase

This is not a suggestion; it is the cardinal rule of self-custody.

Write it down manually on your included Recovery Sheet.
Verify it immediately using your device's button to confirm the order.
Store it like physical cash or a passport: In a safe, fire-resistant place. Consider a steel backup solution like Ledger Billfodl for maximum durability.
Never, ever:
- Take a photo of it.
- Type it on a computer or phone.
- Store it in cloud storage or a password manager.
- Share it with anyone. Ledger will NEVER ask for it.

This 24-word phrase is the master key to your crypto. It allows you to recover your assets if your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Phase 4: Set Your PIN Code

Add a physical layer of security directly on the device. Choose a PIN (4-8 digits) that only you know. This PIN is required every time you connect your device.

Phase 5: Install Apps & Add Accounts

Your Ledger device manages assets via lightweight blockchain apps.

In Ledger Live, go to "My Ledger" and install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polygon).
Return to the portfolio view and "Add Account" for each cryptocurrency.
Ledger Live will derive your secure public addresses, ready to receive assets.

You're Now Secure. Your private keys have never touched an internet-connected device. You have officially started your journey to self-custody.

What's Next? Explore the Power of Ledger Live

With setup complete, your Ledger Live app transforms into a powerful hub:

Buy Crypto: Use our integrated partners (Coinify, BTC Direct, etc.) to buy crypto directly into your secure wallet.
Grow Your Assets: Access Ledger Staking to earn rewards on assets like ETH, SOL, and DOT, all while keeping full custody.
Swap Tokens: Exchange hundreds of tokens securely through Ledger Live's partner DEXs.
Manage NFTs: View and secure your NFT collection in the dedicated gallery. Connect safely to marketplaces like OpenSea via the "Discover" tab.
Explore Web3: Connect your Ledger to thousands of decentralized apps (DeFi, games, DAOs) with confidence—your keys stay safe on the device while you interact.

Pro Tips for Your New Secure Life

Verify & Control: Always verify receiving addresses and transaction details on your Ledger's screen before approving with the button. This is your final, hack-proof check.
Update Regularly: Keep your Ledger device's firmware and Ledger Live updated for the latest security patches and features.
Use the Discover Tab: This is your curated gateway to safe Web3 exploration, with vetted applications.
Dive into Ledger Academy: Continue your education with free, in-depth guides and articles on security and blockchain technology.

Your Security, Our Obsession

The process you just completed is the result of years of innovation in cryptography and secure chip technology. Every Ledger device is built around a Secure Element (SE) chip, certified to the highest standards (CC EAL5+), ensuring your private keys are physically isolated from online threats.

By starting correctly at ledger.com/start, you haven't just set up a wallet. You've established a personal fortress for your digital future.

← Back to Ledger.com | Visit Help Center →

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: I've finished setup. Can I send my crypto from an exchange to my Ledger now?
A: Yes, absolutely. You are now in full control. Use the "Receive" function in Ledger Live for the specific cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin). Verify the receiving address on your Ledger device's screen, then use that address to withdraw from your exchange. Start with a small test transaction first.

Q2: What if I lose the Recovery Sheet with my 24 words?
A: If your Ledger device is still functional and you know your PIN, you can regenerate your Recovery Phrase from the device's settings. Immediately write it down on a new, secure medium. If you lose both the device AND the phrase, your funds cannot be recovered. This underscores the critical need for robust, physical backup.

Q3: Is it safe to connect my Ledger to DeFi protocols or NFT websites?
A: Yes, when done correctly. Always use the "Connect Ledger" option on the website. Your private keys remain on the device; you only approve transactions. However, only interact with smart contracts you trust, as Ledger cannot reverse blockchain transactions. Double-check all transaction details on your device screen.

Q4: My Ledger Live app shows zero balance after setup. Is this normal?
A: Completely normal. Ledger Live displays assets held in the accounts you have added. After setup, you need to "Add Account" for each cryptocurrency you own and then send assets to those generated addresses. Your device is a blank vault waiting for you to deposit your assets.

Q5: Can I use one Ledger device for multiple blockchains and hundreds of tokens?
A: Yes. A single Ledger device can secure an infinite number of assets across dozens of blockchains. You install the relevant blockchain app (e.g., Ethereum app manages ETH, USDC, and all ERC-20 tokens). The Nano X's larger memory allows more apps to be installed simultaneously.

Q6: How do I know if my Ledger device is genuine and hasn't been tampered with?
A: Genuine Ledger devices have a secure element that is verified automatically by Ledger Live during setup. The Ledger Live app will perform a "Genuine Check" when you first connect your device. If it passes, your device is authentic. Always buy from our official Ledger.com store to guarantee authenticity.