SECURE • VERIFIED • TRUSTED

Getting Started | Ledger.com/start®

Your gateway to ultimate cryptocurrency security. Set up your Ledger hardware wallet in minutes and protect your digital assets with military-grade encryption.

Welcome to Ledger Security

Ledger.com/start is your official starting point for securing cryptocurrency assets with industry-leading hardware wallet technology. In an era where digital assets are increasingly valuable and vulnerable to cyber threats, taking control of your own security has never been more critical.

When you store cryptocurrency on exchanges or in software wallets, you're trusting third parties with your private keys—the cryptographic codes that grant access to your funds. Ledger hardware wallets eliminate this risk by keeping your private keys completely offline, stored securely within a certified chip that meets the same security standards used by passports and credit cards.

The setup process at Ledger.com/start has been designed with both security and simplicity in mind. Whether you're a cryptocurrency veteran or just beginning your journey into digital asset ownership, our step-by-step onboarding ensures you understand each critical security measure. From verifying your device's authenticity to properly backing up your recovery phrase, every step builds a fortress around your investments.

Your Ledger device isn't just a USB stick—it's a sophisticated security solution featuring a Secure Element chip (the same technology banks use), a custom operating system called BOLOS, and multiple layers of cryptographic protection. This combination creates an environment where your private keys can sign transactions without ever being exposed to your computer or the internet.

Setting up through Ledger.com/start also connects you to Ledger Live, the companion application that serves as your interface for managing over 5,500 different cryptocurrencies and tokens. Ledger Live provides real-time portfolio tracking, secure transaction management, and seamless integration with decentralized applications—all while your keys remain safely isolated on your hardware device.

Setup Protocol

Follow these steps to secure your digital assets

01

Unbox Your Device

Carefully open your Ledger hardware wallet package. Ensure all components are present and the security seal is intact.

02

Download Ledger Live

Install the official Ledger Live application on your computer or mobile device from ledger.com only.

03

Initialize Device

Power on your Ledger, choose to set up as a new device, and create a secure PIN code.

04

Backup Recovery Phrase

Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet. Never store it digitally.

05

Verify & Secure

Confirm your recovery phrase on the device and store it in a safe location separate from your device.

06

Start Securing Assets

Connect to Ledger Live, install apps for your cryptocurrencies, and begin managing your digital assets securely.

Core Security Features

Enterprise-grade protection for your crypto portfolio

Military-Grade Security

Hardware isolation keeps your private keys offline and protected from online threats and malware.

Secure Element Chip

Bank-grade security chip (CC EAL5+) protects against physical and remote attacks.

Full Asset Control

You hold the only keys to your crypto. No third party can access or freeze your funds.

5,500+ Assets Supported

Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, and thousands of tokens all in one secure device.

Critical Security Practices

Never share your recovery phrase: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrency. Ledger will never ask for it, and neither should anyone else. Store it offline in a secure physical location.

Only download from official sources: Always get Ledger Live from ledger.com. Fake apps and phishing websites are common attack vectors designed to steal your credentials.

Verify all transaction details: Before confirming any transaction, carefully verify the recipient address and amount on your Ledger device screen, not just on your computer.

Keep firmware updated: Regularly update your Ledger device firmware through Ledger Live to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.

Use additional security layers: Consider storing your recovery phrase in multiple secure locations, using a passphrase (25th word) for advanced security, and enabling all available authentication features in Ledger Live.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about getting started

What is Ledger.com/start?
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding portal for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. It guides you through unboxing, initialization, and security best practices to ensure your cryptocurrency assets are properly protected from the start.
Why do I need a hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets like Ledger provide the highest level of security for cryptocurrency storage. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, your private keys never leave the device and remain isolated from internet-connected devices, protecting you from hacking, phishing, and malware attacks.
What should I do with my recovery phrase?
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto assets. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet, never take photos or store it digitally, and keep it in a secure physical location separate from your device. Anyone with access to this phrase can access your funds.
Is Ledger Live safe to use?
Yes, Ledger Live is the official companion app designed to work seamlessly with your Ledger device. Always download it from ledger.com to avoid fake applications. The app itself never has access to your private keys, which remain secured on your hardware device.
Can I recover my wallet if I lose my device?
Yes, as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your entire wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. This is why securely storing your recovery phrase is critically important.
How do I know my device is genuine?
Only purchase from ledger.com or authorized resellers. Upon receiving your device, check for tamper-proof packaging, verify the security seal is intact, and ensure the device prompts you to set up as new (pre-configured devices are a red flag).

Ready to Secure Your Future?

Join millions of users worldwide who trust Ledger to protect their digital assets. Start your secure crypto journey today.