Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — Ledger wallet

Nelson F Burnell

— 3 min read

Ledger.com/Start – Your Trusted Gateway to Crypto Security

Welcome to Ledger, and congratulations on taking the first step toward true financial sovereignty. In a digital world where you own your data, your identity, and your assets, it’s essential that you also own your keys. That’s where your journey begins.

This guide is your trusted companion to setting up your Ledger device, ensuring that from the moment you unbox it, you are building your security on a foundation of confidence and control.

Why Your Journey Starts with a Hardware Wallet

You might be wondering, "Why do I need a Ledger device?" If you buy, trade, or hold cryptocurrency on an exchange, you don't truly own your assets. The exchange holds the private keys—the cryptographic proof of ownership—on your behalf. This is often called "custodial" storage.

A Ledger hardware wallet transitions you to self-custody. This means:

  • You Own Your Private Keys: Your assets are controlled by a unique 24-word recovery phrase that only you possess.
  • Maximum Security: Your private keys are generated and stored in a secure, offline chip within your Ledger device, completely isolated from internet-connected hackers and malware.
  • Full Control: You are your own bank. You transact directly on the blockchain, with no intermediary.

Your 3-Step Journey to Unbreakable Security

The path to securing your crypto is straightforward. Follow these three essential steps to get started.

Step 1: Unbox and Verify

  1. Unbox Your Kit: Carefully open your box. You should find your Ledger Nano device, a USB-C cable, a keychain strap, and three recovery sheets.
  2. Verify Authenticity: Your security is our top priority. Before you start, visit our official guide on device authenticity to ensure your device has not been tampered with. Look for anti-tamper seals and check the device's screen for any signs of pre-use.

Step 2: Set Up Your Device

  1. Connect to Ledger Live: Download Ledger Live, our official companion app, from our official website. Never download it from a third-party source.
  2. Initialize Your Device: Plug in your Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live.
  3. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase: This is the single most important step. Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down by hand on the provided recovery sheet.
    • Never digitize it: Do not take a photo, store it in a cloud file, or type it on a computer.
    • Keep it safe & secret: Store it in a secure, fireproof location. Anyone with this phrase can access your funds.
    • Ledger will never ask for it: We will never request your 24-word phrase. Beware of phishing scams.

Step 3: Manage Your Assets with Confidence

  1. Install Apps: Use Ledger Live to install "apps" for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). These apps allow your device to manage different blockchains.
  2. Create Accounts: Add accounts for each cryptocurrency. Ledger Live will generate a receiving address for you.
  3. Start Transacting: You're now ready to securely receive and send assets. Every transaction must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device by pressing the buttons—this is the core of your security.

Beyond the Basics: Explore the Ledger Ecosystem

Once your device is set up, your gateway to the secure crypto world is wide open. With your Ledger, you can safely:

  • Buy Crypto: Purchase over 500+ cryptocurrencies directly through Ledger Live via our trusted partners.
  • Earn Passive Income: Securely stake your assets to earn rewards, all while your keys remain protected in your hardware wallet.
  • Explore Web3: Connect your Ledger to NFT marketplaces and decentralized applications (dApps) without compromising your private keys.
  • Swap Tokens: Instantly exchange one token for another using Ledger Live's Swap service, benefiting from competitive rates and unmatched security.

Your Security, Our Mission

At Ledger, we are not just building devices; we are building the foundation for a more secure and decentralized digital future. From our secure element chips to our intuitive Ledger Live software, every component is designed with one goal: to give you unparalleled control and peace of mind.

Your journey to true ownership starts now. Welcome to the world of self-custody. Welcome to Ledger.

Download Ledger Live & Begin Your Setup

Disclaimer: *This article is for educational purposes. Always ensure you are using official Ledger websites and software to avoid phishing attacks. You are solely responsible for safeguarding your 24-word recovery phrase.*

Read more