Welcome to Ledger.com/Start
Unlock the full potential of your digital assets. This guide provides everything you need to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and secure your crypto with confidence.
What is a Ledger Hardware Wallet?
A Ledger hardware wallet is a state-of-the-art security device that stores your private keys offline, providing a critical layer of protection for your cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Think of it as a fortified vault for your digital life, immune to online threats.
Offline Key Storage
Your private keys—the essential passwords to your crypto—are generated and stored within the device's secure chip. They never touch the internet, making them inaccessible to hackers, malware, and phishing attacks.
Full Ownership
Unlike storing assets on an exchange, a hardware wallet gives you complete control. You are the sole owner of your private keys and, therefore, your funds. This principle, "not your keys, not your coins," is the foundation of self-custody.
Transaction Verification
Every transaction must be physically verified and confirmed on the device's trusted display. This ensures you are sending the correct amount to the right address, protecting you from man-in-the-middle attacks.
Your Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Setting up your Ledger device is a straightforward process designed with security at its core. Follow these steps to ensure your assets are protected from day one.
Initial Device Setup
Power on your new Ledger device. Follow the on-screen instructions to set it up as a new device and choose a secure PIN code. This PIN is your first line of defense.
Generate Your Recovery Phrase
Your device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This is the master key to all your crypto assets. Write it down carefully on the provided recovery sheets.
Secure Your Recovery Phrase
This is the most critical step. Store your recovery phrase in a secure, offline location. Never store it digitally or take a photo of it. Anyone with access to these words can access your funds.
Install Ledger Live
Download and install the Ledger Live application on your computer or smartphone from the official Ledger website. This app is your secure gateway to managing your assets.
Connect and Verify
Connect your Ledger device to your computer. Ledger Live will perform a genuine check to ensure your device is authentic. Follow the prompts to add accounts for your desired cryptocurrencies.
Start Transacting
You're all set! You can now securely send and receive crypto, check your balance, and explore Web3 services through Ledger Live, all while your keys remain protected offline.
Uncompromising Security, Unmatched Features
Ledger combines industry-leading hardware with a powerful software ecosystem to provide a seamless and secure crypto experience.
Certified Secure Element (SE) Chip
Ledger wallets integrate a top-tier Secure Element chip, the same kind used in passports and credit cards. This chip provides tamper-resistant, cryptographic security for your private keys.
Extensive Coin Support
Manage over 5,500 coins and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and many more. The Ledger ecosystem is constantly expanding to support new assets and blockchains.
Powerful Ledger Live App
The all-in-one Ledger Live app allows you to securely manage your assets, check your portfolio in real-time, and access a growing suite of Web3 services like swapping and staking.
Staking and DeFi Access
Put your assets to work directly from the security of your hardware wallet. Stake your coins to earn rewards or connect to decentralized finance platforms through Ledger Live.
The Gold Standard in Crypto Security
When it comes to protecting your digital wealth, there is no room for compromise. Ledger has established itself as the most trusted name in hardware wallet security, chosen by millions of individuals and institutions worldwide. Our commitment to rigorous security audits, continuous innovation, and a user-centric approach ensures your assets are safe today and for the future of Web3.
- Industry's only certified hardware wallet on the market.
- Open-source software for maximum transparency.
- Regular firmware updates to counter emerging threats.
- A dedicated team of world-class security experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We've got answers. Here are some of the most common inquiries about getting started with Ledger.