Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Start With Ledger® Official
Welcome to Ledger Start, your secure gateway into the world of cryptocurrency and digital assets. Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced investor, Ledger gives you the tools you need to manage, protect, and grow your digital wealth with confidence.
What Is Ledger?
Ledger is a trusted leader in crypto security. We design hardware wallets — secure devices that store your private keys offline — which protect your cryptocurrencies from online threats like hacks, phishing, and malware. With Ledger, you’re in control of your digital assets, backed by hardware-level protection and intuitive software.
Our mission is simple: secure your crypto, empower your journey.
Why Choose Ledger?
🔐 The Highest Level of Security
At the core of Ledger is industry-leading security. Your private keys — the secret codes that prove ownership of your crypto — never leave your device. Ledger hardware wallets use a secure chip (certified CC EAL5+) which isolates keys from your computer or phone, keeping them safe from attackers.
🌐 Compatible with Hundreds of Cryptocurrencies
Ledger supports over 5,500 assets, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and many others. Whether you’re building a diverse portfolio or holding long-term stakes, Ledger keeps everything in one secure place.
📱 Simple, Powerful Software
Ledger Live — our companion app — makes managing your crypto easy. Send, receive, stake, and track your assets all in one interface. Ledger Live is free, available on desktop and mobile, and designed for both beginners and advanced users.
📦 Trusted Worldwide
Millions of people around the world trust Ledger to protect their digital assets. With ongoing security updates and transparent design, we build tools that grow with you.
Getting Started — Your Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to begin? Follow these simple steps to set up your Ledger device and secure your first crypto assets.
1. Unbox Your Ledger Device
Your Ledger hardware wallet arrives in a sealed package with:
- The Ledger device
- A USB cable
- A recovery sheet
- Instruction guide
Make sure your package is unopened and untampered with before setup.
2. Connect and Initialize
- Connect your device to your computer or phone using the USB cable.
- Visit Ledger Start on your browser — this page will guide you through setup.
- Follow on-screen instructions to power on your device.
3. Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website.
- Available for macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS.
- Install and open Ledger Live.
- Create a new wallet or restore an existing one.
4. Set Your PIN Code
Choose a secure PIN that only you know. This code protects access to your Ledger device.
Tip: Never share your PIN with anyone, and never store it digitally.
5. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase — your ultimate backup.
This phrase is critically important. Write it exactly as shown on the recovery sheet, in order, and keep it secure.
🛑 Warning: Never take a screenshot, store it online, or share it. Anyone with this phrase can access your crypto.
6. Add Your First Crypto Accounts
Once your device is initialized:
- Open Ledger Live.
- Navigate to “Manager” to install apps for the coins you want to store.
- Add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others.
- Start receiving and managing your assets.
Using Ledger Live — Built for Control
Ledger Live is your command center. With it, you can:
- Receive crypto: Share your address to receive funds.
- Send crypto: Approve outgoing transactions securely.
- Track portfolio: Monitor asset values and performance.
- Stake crypto: Earn rewards on supported assets.
- Buy & swap: Integrated partners let you exchange or buy crypto directly.
Every action requiring a signature must be confirmed on your Ledger device — protecting you from unauthorized transactions.
Best Practices for Security
Security is more than just hardware — it’s a mindset. Follow these tips:
✔️ Keep Your Recovery Phrase Safe
Store your 24-word phrase offline in a secure location. Use a fireproof safe or dedicated crypto backup tool.
✔️ Beware of Scams
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. If someone asks for it — in emails, messages, or websites — it’s a scam.
✔️ Update Regularly
Keep your Ledger firmware and Ledger Live app up to date. Updates include security improvements and new features.
✔️ Use Passphrases for Extra Protection
A passphrase adds another layer of defense. Combined with your recovery phrase, it creates a unique wallet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What crypto does Ledger support?
Ledger supports thousands of assets, including major coins and many tokens on Ethereum, Solana, and other networks.
Is Ledger Live required?
Yes — Ledger Live is the safest way to manage your crypto with a Ledger device. It links with your hardware wallet to authorize transactions.
Can I recover my wallet if my device is lost?
Absolutely. Your 24-word recovery phrase lets you restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.
Is Ledger safe from hacks?
Yes — since private keys stay offline, Ledger significantly reduces risk. However, security also depends on user vigilance against scams and phishing.
Your Crypto Journey Starts Here
Congratulations — you’re now on the path to owning and securing your digital assets with confidence. Ledger gives you:
- True self-custody: You control your keys and your crypto.
- Advanced security: Hardware-level protection.
- Ease of use: Simple setup and intuitive management with Ledger Live.
Whether you’re here to protect your first Bitcoin or to take control of a growing crypto portfolio, we’re glad you chose Ledger.
👉 Head to Ledger Live now and take the next step: add your first crypto account and start exploring your financial future.