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Get Started with Confidence at Ledger.com/start - Official Setup Guide

Get Started with Confidence at Ledger.com/start

Welcome to the official starting point for your **Ledger hardware wallet** setup. By navigating to Ledger.com/start, you are taking the most secure and authenticated path to initialize your device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Ledger Stax, etc.). This ensures you download the legitimate Ledger Live application and follow the correct, uncompromised steps for establishing **self-custody** over your digital assets.

Ledger’s security architecture is founded on the **Secure Element** chip, a certified component designed to resist sophisticated physical and digital attacks. Your **private keys** are generated, stored, and used exclusively offline within this chip. The Ledger Live™ software acts as the secure, user-friendly portal for managing your portfolio, but the crucial act of transaction authorization always requires **physical confirmation** on your Ledger device.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the three core phases: preparation, downloading the official software, and executing the critical security steps to secure your **Secret Recovery Phrase**.

1. Essential Pre-Setup Preparation

A secure and successful setup requires a focused environment and confirmation of the authenticity of your device. Do not rush this process.

Mandatory Checklist for a Secure Start

  • **Authentic Ledger Device:** Ensure the packaging is tamper-free and factory sealed.
  • **Original Recovery Sheets:** The blank, numbered cards provided inside your box.
  • **A Pen:** For permanent and legible recording of your **24-word Secret Recovery Phrase**.
  • **A Private Location:** Perform the setup away from any cameras, onlookers, or digital recording devices.
  • **Computer Access:** A desktop computer is recommended for stability during the initial setup and firmware installation via Ledger Live.
🛑 **CRITICAL SECURITY CHECK:** If your Ledger box contains a pre-written or pre-printed 24-word phrase, **DO NOT USE THE DEVICE**. It has been compromised. A genuine Ledger device will always require you to generate and record the phrase yourself. Contact Ledger Support immediately.

2. Downloading and Verifying Ledger Live

The Ledger Live application is your essential interface. Downloading it from Ledger.com/start guarantees you receive the official, verified software, protecting you from phishing websites that mimic the Ledger brand.

  1. **Access the Official Gateway:** Visit Ledger.com/start and click the link to download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  2. **Install and Launch:** Install the application. On launch, Ledger Live will present you with the setup options. Select **"Set up a new Ledger device"** and choose your specific model (e.g., Nano X).
  3. **Follow On-Screen Instructions:** Ledger Live provides a clear, guided tutorial confirming the steps you will take on the physical device. This synchronization is key to preventing mistakes during the generation of your master key.

3. Device Initialization: PIN and Secret Recovery Phrase

This phase must be executed meticulously and entirely on the Ledger device's physical screen, ensuring cryptographic keys are generated offline, isolated from your computer.

Steps Performed Directly on the Ledger Device

  1. **Connect and Power On:** Connect your Ledger device to your computer via USB. Use the physical buttons to begin the setup process.
  2. **Set Your PIN Code:** Select and confirm a strong **4-to-8 digit PIN code**. This PIN acts as the immediate lock protecting your device from physical theft.
  3. **Generate the 24-Word Master Key:** The device screen will display your **24-word Secret Recovery Phrase** one word at a time. **YOU MUST WRITE DOWN ALL 24 WORDS ACCURATELY AND IN ORDER** on your Recovery Sheet(s). This is your ultimate backup—the key to your crypto.
  4. **Confirm the Phrase:** The Ledger device will test your recording by asking you to confirm random words (e.g., Word #12, Word #20). Use the device buttons to correctly select the word corresponding to the number shown. This step verifies the integrity of your written backup.

Once confirmed, your Ledger device is initialized. **Store the written Secret Recovery Phrase sheets in a highly secure, private location (e.g., fireproof safe, bank vault).**

4. Ledger Genuine Check and Firmware Validation

After initialization, Ledger Live performs a cryptographic check to ensure your device is genuine and running certified firmware.

  1. **Initiate Check:** In Ledger Live, follow the prompts for the **Genuine Check**.
  2. **Authorize on Device:** Unlock your Ledger with your PIN. The device screen will display a prompt asking for permission (e.g., "Allow Ledger Manager?").
  3. **Physical Confirmation:** Press both physical buttons on your Ledger to confirm. Ledger Live will then confirm cryptographically with Ledger's secure server that your device is indeed authentic. **This step is mandatory for a secure environment.**

5. Managing Your Assets with Ledger Live

With verification complete, you can use Ledger Live to install the necessary blockchain apps and start managing your portfolio.

Portfolio Management and Security Features

  • **Install Apps:** Use the **Manager** section in Ledger Live to install the specific applications (e.g., Bitcoin app, Ethereum app) for the cryptocurrencies you plan to hold.
  • **Add Accounts:** Go to the **Accounts** tab, select the crypto, and Ledger Live will securely connect to your device to synchronize your addresses and display your balance.
  • **Secure Receiving:** When generating a receive address, Ledger Live will prompt you to **verify the address on your Ledger device's screen**. This prevents attackers from showing you a malicious address on your computer.
  • **Clear Signing:** Every transaction you send requires you to **physically review and approve the recipient address and amount** on the Ledger device's screen. This "What You See Is What You Sign" process ensures ultimate security.

By starting your journey at Ledger.com/start and following these steps, you have successfully transitioned from relying on third parties to becoming the sole, secure owner of your digital assets. This is the power of **self-custody**.

Confidence achieved. Your digital assets are now secured by Ledger's industry-leading technology.

Explore staking, swapping, and buying crypto directly through your secure interface: Access Ledger Live