Lèdğer.com/Start® — Getting™ Started | Ledger®

Jamie larson

— 3 min read

Welcome to the world of secure self-custody. By choosing a Ledger hardware wallet, you’ve taken the most important step in protecting your digital assets. Whether you’ve purchased the Ledger Nano X, the Nano S Plus, or the Ledger Stax, your journey begins at the official onboarding portal:ledger.com/start.

Setting up your device correctly is the foundation of your crypto security. This guide will walk you through the initialization process, the importance of the Ledger Live app, and the golden rules of hardware wallet safety.

Why the Setup Process Matters

In the decentralized world, you are your own bank. Unlike traditional finance, there is no "forgot password" button for your private keys. The setup process atledger.com/startensures that your private keys are generated offline, kept away from hackers, and backed up securely. By following the official protocol, you ensure that your device is genuine and your funds are protected from day one.

Step-by-Step: Initializing Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

To begin, ensure you have your Ledger device, the provided USB cable, and the blank recovery sheets included in the box.

1. Download Ledger Live

The first step is to visitledger.com/startand download Ledger Live. This is the official companion app for your device. It is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Security Note: Always download Ledger Live from the official site. Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any website or app; it should only ever be entered directly onto your physical Ledger device.

2. Connect and Power On

Use the USB cable to connect your Ledger to your computer or mobile device. Follow the on-screen instructions on your Ledger device to navigate the menu using the physical buttons. Select the option to "Set up as new device."

3. Choose a PIN Code

Your PIN code is your first line of physical defense. It can be between 4 and 8 digits long. Choose a code that is difficult to guess and never use common sequences like "0000" or "1234." You will need this PIN every time you unlock your device.

4. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical step of theledger.com/startprocess. Your device will generate 24 random words. This is your Recovery Phrase (or Seed Phrase).

  • Write each word down exactly as it appears, in the correct order.
  • Use the physical recovery sheets provided.
  • Never take a photo of it, store it in a cloud service, or type it into a computer.

5. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

The device will ask you to verify the words to ensure you’ve recorded them correctly. Once confirmed, your private keys are securely stored on the Secure Element chip inside your Ledger.

Exploring the Ledger Live Ecosystem

Once your device is configured vialedger.com/start, the Ledger Live app becomes your command center. It allows you to:

  • Install Apps: Each cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) requires a specific app to be installed on your device.
  • Manage Assets: Send and receive thousands of coins and tokens with the peace of mind that your keys never leave the hardware.
  • Buy and Swap: Access integrated partners to purchase crypto or swap assets directly within the secure environment.
  • Stake Your Crypto: Earn rewards on your holdings (like ETH, SOL, or DOT) by participating in network validation directly through the interface.

The Golden Rules of Crypto Safety

Even with the world's best hardware wallet, user error remains a risk. To keep your assets safe after visitingledger.com/start, follow these three rules:

  1. Your Recovery Phrase is for your eyes only. No Ledger employee, website, or support agent will ever ask for your 24 words. If they do, it is a scam.
  2. Verify everything on the device screen. When sending a transaction, always compare the address on your computer screen with the address shown on your Ledger device. The device screen is the only thing you can trust.
  3. Store your recovery sheet offline. Keep it in a fireproof, waterproof, and hidden location. Many users opt for steel backup solutions for extra durability.

Final Thoughts

The transition to self-custody can feel daunting, but theledger.com/startworkflow is designed to make it accessible for everyone. By moving your assets off exchanges and onto a Ledger, you are reclaiming ownership of your financial future.

Now that your device is set up, you can explore the vast world of Web3, NFTs, and DeFi with the confidence that your private keys are protected by industry-leading security.

Read more