Ledger.com/start: The Official Guide to Securing Your Crypto

You've made the smart decision to take control of your crypto assets with a Ledger hardware wallet. The official starting point for setting up your device is Ledger.com/start. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every critical step, ensuring you set up your device correctly, securely, and with a full understanding of the process. Follow these instructions to begin your journey toward ultimate crypto security.

Step 1: Your First Security Check

Before you even open the box, it's essential to perform a security check to ensure your device hasn't been tampered with. This is the first and most critical step in your Hardware Wallet Setup.

• Inspect the Packaging: Check the box for any signs of tampering. Ledger's packaging is designed to be tamper-proof. Look for any broken seals, scuffs, or signs that the box has been opened and re-sealed.
• Check for Pre-written Phrases: A genuine Ledger device will never come with a pre-written recovery phrase or a pre-set PIN. If you find a recovery sheet with words already written on it, or if the device asks for a PIN on first startup, **DO NOT USE IT**. This is a major red flag that the device has been compromised.

If your device passes these initial checks, you can proceed with confidence.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion software for your Ledger device. It's a secure application that allows you to manage your crypto, check your portfolio, and install apps on your hardware wallet. All setup must be done through Ledger Live.

1. Navigate to Ledger.com/start: Open your browser and go directly to `https://www.ledger.com/start`. This link will always redirect you to the official download page for Ledger Live.
2. Download the App: The website will automatically detect your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS) and provide the correct download link. Download and install the application on your computer or mobile device.
3. Launch and Connect: Once Ledger Live is installed, open it and follow the on-screen prompts. You'll be asked to connect your Ledger device to your computer via the provided USB cable.

Step 3: The Most Critical Step - Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

This is the single most important part of the entire setup process. Your recovery phrase is your master key. It's the only backup of your private keys and the only way to recover your funds if your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

1. Create a New Device: In Ledger Live, you will be prompted to "Set up as a new device." Select this option.
2. The Device Generates Your Phrase: Your Ledger device's screen will display a series of 24 words, one by one. These words are randomly generated offline by the device's Secure Element chip, meaning no one—not even Ledger—has access to them.
3. Write it Down: Use the recovery sheet provided in the box to carefully write down each of the 24 words in the exact order they appear. Take your time, and double-check your spelling.
4. Confirm the Phrase: After writing down all 24 words, Ledger Live will prompt you to confirm a few words from your phrase. This is a crucial verification step to ensure you have a correct backup.

Step 4: Set Up Your PIN Code and Install Apps

After securely backing up your recovery phrase, you will set a PIN to protect your device from unauthorized physical access.

1. Choose a PIN Code: On the Ledger device itself, you will choose a PIN code with 4 to 8 digits. This PIN is required to unlock your device each time you use it.
2. Install Crypto Apps: In the "Manager" section of Ledger Live, you can now install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you wish to manage. For example, to hold Bitcoin, you need to install the Bitcoin app on your device. Your Ledger can store multiple apps simultaneously, depending on its model.

Step 5: Add Accounts and Begin Managing Your Crypto

Once your device is set up and apps are installed, you can add your accounts in Ledger Live to begin managing your assets. This is the final step in your Hardware Wallet Setup and the beginning of your journey with secure Crypto Management.

Features You Can Now Access via Ledger Live

• Send and Receive Crypto

  Generate a secure receiving address for your crypto. Ledger Live provides the address, which you must confirm on your Ledger's screen to ensure it hasn't been tampered with. When sending, you must physically confirm all transaction details on your device's screen.

• Portfolio Tracking

  View your entire portfolio, track its value in real-time, and monitor your transaction history from a single, intuitive dashboard.

• Buy, Sell, and Swap

  Ledger Live integrates with third-party partners, allowing you to buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies directly from the application. This provides a convenient and secure way to manage your assets without exposing them to exchanges.

• Staking and Earning

  You can earn passive income by staking certain coins directly from your Ledger Live account. Your funds remain secured by your hardware wallet throughout the entire process.