Welcome to Ledger Start

Ledger Start is the first step toward taking full control of your digital assets. Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or already experienced, using a hardware wallet is one of the most effective ways to protect your crypto from online threats. This page is designed to guide you through the basics of setting up your Ledger device, understanding how it works, and learning essential security practices.

Cryptocurrency gives you freedom and ownership over your money, but that freedom also comes with responsibility. Unlike traditional banking, there is no central authority that can reverse transactions or recover lost funds. That is why security is critical, and why millions of users choose hardware wallets to store their crypto safely.

Why Use a Ledger Hardware Wallet?

A hardware wallet is a physical device that stores your private keys offline. Private keys are what give access to your cryptocurrency. If someone gains access to them, they can control your funds. Online wallets, mobile apps, and exchanges are connected to the internet, which makes them more vulnerable to hacking, malware, and phishing attacks.

Ledger hardware wallets are designed to keep your private keys isolated from internet-connected devices. Even when you send a transaction, your keys never leave the device. Every transaction must be verified and approved directly on the Ledger device, giving you full visibility and control.

This approach significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and helps protect your assets over the long term.

Setting Up Your Ledger Device

When you first turn on your Ledger device, you will be guided through a setup process. This includes choosing a PIN code, which protects your device from physical access. If someone finds your device, they cannot use it without the PIN.

It is important to choose a PIN that is hard to guess and to never share it with anyone. Avoid using obvious combinations such as birthdays or repeated numbers. Your PIN is only known to you and is never stored online.

During setup, your device will also generate a recovery phrase. This is a critical part of your wallet’s security.

Understanding the Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase consists of 24 words generated by your Ledger device. These words are the master backup for your wallet. If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or stops working, the recovery phrase allows you to restore your wallet on a new device and regain access to your funds.

Because of its importance, your recovery phrase must be stored securely and offline. Write it down on paper and keep it in a safe place. Do not take photos of it, store it in cloud services, or save it on a computer or phone. Anyone who gains access to your recovery phrase can control your crypto.

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. If someone does, it is a scam.

Using Ledger Live to Manage Crypto

Ledger Live is the companion application used to manage your Ledger device and your crypto assets. With Ledger Live, you can install apps for different cryptocurrencies, check balances, send and receive funds, and view your portfolio.

Each cryptocurrency requires its own app on the Ledger device. Installing and removing apps does not affect your funds, as your assets are secured by your private keys, not by the apps themselves.

Whenever you make a transaction, Ledger Live will ask you to confirm the details on your Ledger device. This ensures that even if your computer is compromised, no transaction can be completed without your physical approval.

Security Best Practices

Using a hardware wallet greatly improves your security, but good habits are just as important. Always verify transaction details on your device screen before confirming. Be cautious of emails, messages, or websites that claim to be from Ledger and ask for sensitive information.

Only download Ledger Live from official sources, and keep your software and device firmware up to date. Updates often include security improvements and support for new features.

Never share your recovery phrase, and never enter it into a website or app unless you are intentionally restoring your wallet on a trusted device.

Taking Control of Your Crypto

Ledger Start is about empowering you to take ownership of your digital assets. With a hardware wallet, you are no longer relying on third parties to secure your funds. You are in control.

Cryptocurrency is a long-term technology, and security should always be a priority. By following the setup steps carefully and practicing strong security habits, you can confidently manage your crypto and protect it against common threats.

Take your time, stay informed, and remember that the safest wallet is one that you fully understand and control.