Your journey to ultimate cryptocurrency security begins here. Set up your Ledger hardware wallet and take full control of your digital assets.
Welcome to Ledger.com/start, your comprehensive gateway to securing cryptocurrency assets with industry-leading hardware wallet technology. Ledger provides state-of-the-art cold storage solutions that keep your private keys completely offline and protected from online threats. Whether you're a first-time crypto user or an experienced investor, this guide will walk you through every essential step of setting up your Ledger device, from unboxing to managing your first transaction. Our hardware wallets utilize certified secure elements—the same technology trusted by governments and financial institutions worldwide—to ensure your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies remain safe from hackers, phishing attacks, and malware. With Ledger Live, our intuitive companion application, you can manage over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and NFTs, track your portfolio in real-time, stake assets to earn rewards, and even buy or swap crypto directly within the app. The setup process is designed to be straightforward yet comprehensive, ensuring maximum security without compromising user experience.
Follow this simple holographic guide to activate your hardware wallet and secure your crypto portfolio
Get the official Ledger Live application on your computer or mobile device to manage your crypto assets securely.
Plug in your Ledger hardware wallet using the USB cable and follow the on-screen setup instructions.
Create a secure PIN code for your device. This adds an essential layer of protection to your wallet.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase and store it safely. Never share it with anyone or store it digitally.
Your recovery phrase is the master key to your entire crypto portfolio. When you initialize your Ledger device, you'll receive a unique 24-word recovery phrase that must be written down on the official Recovery Sheet included in your package. This phrase allows you to restore access to all your accounts if your device is ever lost, stolen, or damaged. Never photograph, screenshot, or digitally store your recovery phrase, as this creates vulnerability to hacking. Store your Recovery Sheet in a secure physical location such as a safe or safety deposit box. Remember, Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase—anyone requesting it is attempting to steal your funds. The security of your cryptocurrency investments depends entirely on keeping this phrase private and secure. Consider creating multiple backups stored in different secure locations for added redundancy. With proper recovery phrase management, your assets remain accessible only to you, regardless of what happens to your physical device.
Experience unparalleled security and convenience with cutting-edge hardware wallet technology
Your private keys are stored in a certified secure chip, isolated from your computer and smartphone for maximum protection.
Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies all in one place with seamless integration.
Access built-in services to buy crypto with fiat, swap between assets, and earn rewards through staking directly in Ledger Live.
Ledger Live serves as your command center for all cryptocurrency operations, providing a seamless interface between your hardware wallet and the blockchain. This powerful application supports an extensive range of digital assets, from major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum to emerging altcoins and NFT collections. The platform's intuitive design makes complex crypto operations accessible to users of all experience levels. Purchase cryptocurrency directly with credit cards or bank transfers through integrated third-party providers, swap between different assets using competitive exchange rates, and participate in staking programs to earn passive income on supported coins like Ethereum, Cardano, Polkadot, and many others.
Real-time portfolio tracking provides comprehensive insights into your holdings, complete with price charts, historical performance data, and transaction history. The application's multi-account architecture allows you to organize different cryptocurrencies and create multiple accounts for improved privacy and fund management. Regular firmware updates ensure your device stays protected against emerging security threats while gaining support for new cryptocurrencies and features. Ledger Live's desktop and mobile versions sync seamlessly, allowing you to monitor your portfolio on the go while maintaining the security requirement that transactions must be approved on your physical hardware wallet device.
Everything you need to know about getting started with Ledger
A Ledger hardware wallet is a physical device that stores your cryptocurrency private keys offline in a secure chip. It provides the highest level of security for your digital assets by keeping your keys isolated from internet-connected devices, protecting you from hacking attempts and malware.
Getting started is simple: first download Ledger Live from the official website, connect your Ledger device via USB, initialize it by setting a PIN code, and carefully write down your 24-word recovery phrase. The Ledger Live app will guide you through each step with clear instructions.
Your recovery phrase (also called seed phrase) is a 24-word backup that can restore access to your cryptocurrencies if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. It's crucial to write it down on the provided Recovery Sheet, store it in a secure location, and never share it with anyone or store it digitally.
Yes! Ledger devices are compatible with both desktop and mobile platforms. You can use Ledger Live on iOS and Android devices, connecting your Ledger Nano X via Bluetooth or using an OTG cable with Ledger Nano S Plus for secure mobile crypto management.
Absolutely. Ledger Live partners with trusted, vetted service providers for buying, selling, and swapping cryptocurrencies. All transactions are secured by your hardware wallet, meaning you maintain full control of your assets throughout the entire process.