Official Official® | Lédger.com/Start | Getting Started®

Welcome to the Official Official® | Lédger.com/Start | Getting Started® guide—your comprehensive resource for setting up, securing, and confidently using your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you are new to digital assets or an experienced crypto holder looking to enhance security, this guide walks you through every essential step, from unboxing your device to managing assets with best‑in‑class protection.

Ledger is trusted by millions worldwide for safeguarding cryptocurrencies and digital identities. This page is designed to provide a clear, authoritative starting point while aligning with best practices in usability, transparency, and security education.

What Is Ledger and Why It Matters

Ledger is a global leader in hardware wallet technology, providing secure devices that allow users to store, manage, and grow their digital assets offline. Unlike software wallets or exchanges that remain connected to the internet, Ledger hardware wallets keep private keys isolated within a secure element chip, significantly reducing exposure to online threats.

At the core of the Ledger ecosystem is Ledger Live, an intuitive application that lets users buy, sell, swap, stake, and monitor crypto assets while retaining full custody. The journey into this ecosystem begins at the official onboarding portal: **https://www.ledger.com/start**—the only trusted destination to initialize your device and download verified software.

Visiting Ledger.com/start ensures you receive authentic setup instructions, firmware updates, and security guidance directly from the source.

Getting Started: Your First Steps

Setting up your Ledger device is straightforward, but attention to detail is essential for maximum security. Begin by navigating to Ledger.com/start, where you will be guided through a step‑by‑step onboarding process.

1. Unbox and Inspect Your Device

Ledger devices arrive sealed and ready for initialization. There is no pre‑set PIN or recovery phrase—this is a critical security feature. If you encounter a device that appears preconfigured, do not use it.

2. Download Ledger Live

From Ledger.com/start, download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android). This ensures you are using verified software free from tampering or malware. Avoid third‑party download sites, as they pose significant security risks.

3. Connect and Initialize

Once Ledger Live is installed, connect your device via USB or Bluetooth (depending on model). Choose to set up a new device and follow the on‑screen instructions.

Creating Your PIN and Recovery Phrase

Security is the foundation of Ledger’s design. During setup, you will be prompted to create a PIN code and generate a 24‑word recovery phrase.

PIN Code

Your PIN protects physical access to your device. Choose a unique, hard‑to‑guess number and never share it with anyone. Repeated incorrect attempts will reset the device, protecting your assets from unauthorized use.

Recovery Phrase

The 24‑word recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto assets. It is generated offline by the device and displayed once during setup. Write it down carefully and store it in a secure, private location.

Important: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone with access to it can control your assets.

For detailed best practices on safeguarding your recovery phrase, always refer back to the official guidance at Ledger.com/start.

Understanding Ledger Live

Ledger Live is your command center for managing digital assets. After setup, the app allows you to:

• Add and manage multiple crypto accounts
• Send and receive cryptocurrencies securely
• Buy, sell, and swap assets through integrated partners
• Stake supported coins to earn rewards
• Monitor your portfolio in real time

Ledger Live verifies every transaction on your hardware device, requiring physical confirmation before execution. This ensures that even if your computer or smartphone is compromised, transactions cannot be approved without your explicit consent.

Supported Assets and Networks

Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens across multiple blockchains, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Polygon, and many more. Regular updates expand compatibility and improve performance.

To ensure access to the latest supported assets, firmware updates, and app installations, always initiate updates through Ledger Live as instructed on Ledger.com/start.

Advanced Security Features

Ledger devices are built with layered security that goes beyond standard wallet solutions.

Secure Element Chip

The secure element is a tamper‑resistant microcontroller certified to industry standards. It isolates private keys and performs cryptographic operations internally, preventing exposure to external systems.

Clear Signing

Clear signing allows you to verify transaction details—such as addresses and amounts—directly on the device screen before approval. This protects against address‑replacement malware and phishing attacks.

Open‑Source Transparency

Ledger combines proprietary secure hardware with open‑source software components, enabling community review while maintaining high security assurances.

Avoiding Scams and Phishing Attempts

As crypto adoption grows, so do scams. Ledger emphasizes education as a key defense. Follow these principles:

• Only use official links, especially https://www.ledger.com/start, for setup and updates
• Never share your recovery phrase or PIN
• Be cautious of emails or messages claiming urgent issues with your wallet
• Verify URLs carefully—look for subtle misspellings or extra characters

Ledger will never contact you to request sensitive information.

Restoring a Ledger Wallet

If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, your assets are not lost—as long as your recovery phrase is secure. You can restore access on a new Ledger device by choosing the “Restore from recovery phrase” option during setup.

For official restoration instructions and compatibility guidance, refer to the recovery section available via Ledger.com/start.

Why Use Ledger Instead of Exchanges

While exchanges offer convenience, they require users to trust third parties with custody of assets. History has shown that exchanges can be vulnerable to hacks, freezes, or insolvency.

Ledger empowers users with self‑custody, meaning you control your private keys at all times. Combined with offline storage and physical verification, this model significantly reduces counterparty risk.

Best Practices for Long‑Term Use

To maximize safety and performance:

• Keep Ledger Live and device firmware up to date
• Store your recovery phrase offline in multiple secure locations
• Use a dedicated device for crypto management when possible
• Regularly review official announcements and updates

Staying informed through official resources like Ledger.com/start ensures you benefit from the latest security improvements and ecosystem features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ledger safe for beginners?

Yes. Ledger devices are designed with guided onboarding and clear confirmations, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

Can I use Ledger with DeFi and NFTs?

Absolutely. Ledger integrates with multiple third‑party wallets and platforms, enabling secure interaction with DeFi applications and NFT marketplaces while keeping private keys protected.

What happens if Ledger the company shuts down?

Your assets remain safe. Ledger devices operate independently of the company’s servers, and your recovery phrase ensures continued access.

Start Securely Today

The foundation of crypto security begins with proper setup and trusted information. By following the official onboarding process at Ledger.com/start, you ensure that your Ledger device is initialized correctly, your assets are protected, and your journey into digital ownership starts with confidence.

This Official Official® | Lédger.com/Start | Getting Started® guide is designed to be your reference point—clear, accurate, and aligned with Ledger’s highest security standards. Take control of your digital assets today with the security trusted by millions worldwide.