Your Gateway to Secure Crypto Ownership
Set up your Ledger device with confidence. Follow verified steps that protect your assets and help you build a strong foundation for your crypto future.
Start Your Journey Toward Real Crypto Security
Ledger.com/start is the official onboarding hub for initializing your Ledger hardware wallet. It is designed to walk every user—beginner or advanced—through a setup process that is transparent, secure, and easy to follow. The digital asset world moves fast, and choosing a trusted, offline hardware solution is one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your crypto. A Ledger device ensures that your private keys remain stored offline, where online threats cannot access them.
Whether you purchased a Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, or another model, the setup begins with confirming the authenticity of your device and establishing your personal security credentials. Ledger created Ledger.com/start to make sure users never rely on unofficial or potentially harmful instructions found elsewhere on the internet. This page guarantees you are following the manufacturer's recommended instructions from the first moment you power on your device.
Why Hardware Wallets Matter More Than Ever
In an industry built on decentralization, the responsibility of safeguarding digital assets ultimately falls on the wallet owner. Software wallets and centralized exchanges are convenient but often vulnerable to hacks, unauthorized access, and malware. Hardware wallets like Ledger take a different approach by isolating private keys in a secure chip. This means even if your computer or smartphone becomes compromised, your digital assets remain protected.
Ledger devices use a Secure Element chip—the same type of component used in passports and advanced payment systems. This chip is engineered to withstand sophisticated attacks, making it nearly impossible for intruders to access your private keys. Ledger.com/start will guide you through activating this secure environment, ensuring you understand each step and its importance.
Your Step-by-Step Onboarding Guide
1. Unbox and Connect Your Device
After unboxing your Ledger device, connect it to your computer using the official cable included in the package. The device will immediately display prompts to help you begin the setup. Only proceed if the packaging appeared sealed and intact. This ensures the device hasn't been tampered with before reaching your hands.
2. Download and Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the central application for managing your digital assets. It allows you to install apps for different cryptocurrencies, track your portfolio, and execute transactions that must be confirmed on your Ledger device. Download Ledger Live directly from the official link on Ledger.com/start to ensure you receive the correct and secure version of the software.
3. Create Your Recovery Phrase Backup
Your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the ultimate key to your wallet. Write it down carefully on the provided recovery sheet and store it in a safe, offline location. Do not take photos of it or save it digitally. Anyone who gains access to your phrase can take control of your assets, so treat it with the same caution you would apply to a physical safe key.
4. Verify Device Authenticity with Ledger Live
Ledger Live includes an automated authenticity check that confirms your device is genuine and unmodified. This step adds an extra layer of protection, especially in a world where counterfeit crypto products are becoming more common. Once verified, you can proceed to install the crypto apps you need.
Maintain Strong Security Habits
Setting up your Ledger device is only the beginning. Maintaining proper habits will keep your assets secure for the long term. Always verify every transaction on your Ledger device screen, not just on your computer. The hardware screen is tamper-proof and guarantees you are approving exactly what you intend.
Additionally, keep your device firmware up to date. Ledger releases improvements regularly, and updating ensures your device stays compatible with new features and security enhancements. Only perform updates through Ledger Live to avoid fraudulent files from third-party websites.
As long as you continue to follow the guidance provided at Ledger.com/start and maintain awareness of common crypto security principles, you can confidently manage your portfolio with the peace of mind that your assets remain protected.