Master the art of digital asset protection. Follow our comprehensive guide to securely set up your Ledger device, install Ledger Live, and take full control of your financial future.
In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency, security is paramount. Ledger.com/Start® is your starting point for establishing a fortress around your digital wealth. Unlike software wallets that are constantly connected to the internet (hot wallets), Ledger hardware wallets keep your private keys offline, making them immune to online hacks and malware.
When you begin your journey at Ledger.com/Start®, you are not just setting up a device; you are reclaiming sovereignty over your money. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus, a Ledger Nano X, or the premium Ledger Stax, the setup process is designed to be intuitive yet rigorously secure.
Ledger devices use a Secure Element chip, the same technology found in passports and credit cards, to withstand sophisticated attacks.
Manage over 5,500 coins and tokens including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and NFTs through the powerful Ledger Live app.
Follow these precise steps to initialize your device and secure your funds. Do not skip any safety precautions.
When you first receive your device, ensure the packaging is intact. Inside the box, you should find the Ledger device, a USB cable, and recovery sheets. Crucial: Your Ledger device should never come with a pre-filled recovery phrase. If you find a sheet with words already written on it, do not use the device and contact Ledger support immediately.
Navigate to the official Ledger.com/Start® page to download the Ledger Live application. This software is the bridge between your hardware wallet and the blockchain. It allows you to manage accounts, send/receive crypto, and update your device firmware. Ensure you are downloading the authentic version to avoid phishing scams.
Download Ledger LiveConnect your Ledger to your computer using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions on the device itself. You will be asked to choose a PIN code. Select a PIN that is hard to guess but easy for you to remember. This PIN is required every time you unlock your device.
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the master key to your funds. Write down these words exactly as they appear on the device screen onto the provided recovery sheets. Never take a photo of this phrase,never save it on a computer or cloud storage, and never share it with anyone. Ledger support will never ask for it.
If you lose your recovery phrase, you lose access to your funds permanently. There is no "forgot password" feature for crypto wallets.
Once the phrase is confirmed, your device is ready. Open Ledger Live and complete the "Genuine Check" to verify your hardware's authenticity. Afterward, you can install apps for different cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP) via the Manager tab and add accounts to start receiving funds.
Understanding how Ledger protects your digital legacy.
Ledger devices are built around a Secure Element chip (ST33), certified EAL5+. This is the highest level of security certification available for such chips, ensuring your private keys remain isolated from your computer and the internet.
Ledger uses a custom operating system called BOLOS. It allows apps to run in isolation, meaning if one app is compromised (which is highly unlikely), it cannot affect your other assets or the core system integrity.
What you see is what you sign. Malware on your computer can trick you into signing a transaction you didn't intend. The Ledger screen is directly connected to the Secure Element, showing you the true transaction details before you physically approve them.
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