Your Official Gateway to Digital Asset Security
In the rapidly evolving world of digital assets, security is paramount. Ledger stands at the forefront, providing robust hardware solutions designed to protect your cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and other digital valuables from the ever-present threats of the online realm. This page, Ledger.com/Start®, is your dedicated portal to embark on a journey of secure digital ownership. Whether you're a seasoned crypto investor or just beginning to explore the possibilities of blockchain technology, understanding how to properly secure your assets is the first and most crucial step.
Ledger hardware wallets are engineered with advanced security features, acting as a secure vault for your private keys – the cryptographic proof of ownership for your digital assets. Unlike software wallets that reside on your internet-connected devices, Ledger wallets keep your private keys offline, making them virtually immune to hacking attempts, malware, and phishing scams. This fundamental principle of cold storage is what makes Ledger the trusted choice for millions worldwide.
Navigating the crypto landscape can seem daunting, but with Ledger, the process of getting started is streamlined and intuitive. We are committed to empowering you with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage your digital assets with confidence and peace of mind. This guide is designed to walk you through the essential steps, from understanding what a hardware wallet is to setting up your Ledger device and managing your portfolio.
Ledger's commitment to security is built upon a foundation of cutting-edge technology and rigorous security protocols. Our devices, such as the popular Ledger Nano S Plus and the feature-rich Ledger Nano X, are designed with a Secure Element chip, the same type used in passports and credit cards, providing a certified and tamper-proof environment for your private keys. This physical isolation from the internet is the core of its security model.
The ecosystem extends beyond the hardware with Ledger Live, our intuitive desktop and mobile application. Ledger Live allows you to seamlessly manage your cryptocurrencies, install new applications on your device, and track your portfolio's performance, all while ensuring your private keys remain securely offline on your Ledger device. This unified experience simplifies complex operations, making crypto management accessible to everyone.
Furthermore, Ledger is continuously working to expand its support for a wide range of cryptocurrencies and tokens. Whether you're interested in Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, NFTs, or a vast array of altcoins, Ledger aims to be your comprehensive solution for secure storage and management. Our dedication to open-source principles and transparency means the community can verify the security of our software.
The initial setup of your Ledger device is a critical process that ensures the ultimate security of your digital assets. It's designed to be straightforward, but paying close attention to each step is vital.
Upon receiving your Ledger device, carefully inspect the packaging for any signs of tampering. Ensure that the seals are intact and that the device appears to be in pristine condition. Genuine Ledger devices come with security seals; if these are broken, do not proceed and contact Ledger support immediately.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device will power on and guide you through the initial setup process. You'll be prompted to set a PIN code, which is essential for unlocking your device each time you use it. Choose a strong PIN that you can remember but is difficult for others to guess. This PIN is stored securely on the device itself and never leaves it.
This is arguably the most crucial part of the setup. Your Ledger device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Anyone who has access to your recovery phrase can access and control all the assets stored on your Ledger wallet.
Write down your recovery phrase meticulously on the provided recovery sheet or on a durable medium. Do not store it digitally (e.g., on your computer, phone, or in cloud storage) as this would defeat the purpose of using a hardware wallet. Store your recovery phrase in a safe, secure, and private location. Consider creating multiple copies and storing them in different secure locations. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, not even Ledger support.
The device will then ask you to confirm your recovery phrase by entering the words in the correct order. This step verifies that you have recorded it accurately.
Once your device is set up, you'll need to install Ledger Live on your computer or smartphone from the official Ledger website. Ledger Live acts as your interface to interact with your Ledger device.
Through Ledger Live, you will be guided to install the latest firmware for your Ledger device. Firmware updates are crucial for adding new features and patching any potential security vulnerabilities. Always ensure your device's firmware is up to date to maintain the highest level of security.
With your Ledger device set up and Ledger Live installed, you're ready to start managing your digital assets. The process is designed for ease of use without compromising security.
To receive cryptocurrencies, you'll need to generate a public address within Ledger Live. Select the cryptocurrency you wish to receive, click the "Receive" button, and confirm the address generation on your Ledger device. Your public address can be safely shared with others for them to send funds to. Remember, a public address is like a bank account number; it's safe to share.
When sending cryptocurrencies, you will initiate the transaction within Ledger Live. Enter the recipient's public address, the amount you wish to send, and the transaction fee. Crucially, you will then need to approve the transaction details on your Ledger device itself. This physical confirmation step is a vital security measure, ensuring that no unauthorized transactions can be sent from your wallet.
Your Ledger device can support multiple cryptocurrency applications. You can install and uninstall these applications through Ledger Live. For instance, if you want to manage Bitcoin, you'll install the Bitcoin app; for Ethereum, the Ethereum app, and so on. Each app manages a specific cryptocurrency or blockchain.
Ledger.com/Start® is also about education. Understanding the basics of blockchain technology and security best practices is essential for long-term success in the digital asset space. Always be wary of phishing attempts, never share your private keys or recovery phrase, and double-check all transaction details before confirming. Treat your Ledger device and your recovery phrase with the utmost care, as they are the guardians of your financial future in the digital age.
The digital asset space is constantly innovating, with new technologies and opportunities emerging regularly. By choosing Ledger, you are investing in a secure foundation that allows you to explore these advancements with confidence. Whether it's engaging with decentralized finance (DeFi), collecting unique digital art as NFTs, or participating in the burgeoning metaverse, a Ledger hardware wallet ensures that your digital identity and assets are protected.
Our mission at Ledger is to provide the infrastructure for individuals to own and manage their digital assets freely and securely. We believe that everyone should have the power to control their wealth, unhindered by intermediaries or the risks of the digital world. Ledger.com/Start® is your first step towards achieving that financial sovereignty. Explore our products, familiarize yourself with Ledger Live, and join a global community that prioritizes security and innovation.
Thank you for choosing Ledger. We are excited to be a part of your secure digital journey. Remember, your security is our priority.