Begin Your Crypto Security Journey at Ledger.com/Start

You've secured your Ledger hardware wallet, the gold standard for protecting digital assets. This page, Ledger.com/start, is your official guide to a flawless and secure setup. We'll walk you through the simple, step-by-step process to activate your device and transition your cryptocurrencies from risky online exchanges to your own private, ultra-secure vault.

First Impressions: Unboxing and Verification

Begin by carefully unboxing your Ledger device. Inside, you will find the hardware wallet itself, a USB cable, and crucially, your pack of Recovery Sheets. Please take a moment to appreciate the integrity of the packaging. Your Ledger is a tamper-resistant device, and the factory seal is your first assurance of its security. Store these recovery sheets in a place you will remember; they are the cornerstone of your financial sovereignty.

The Foundation: Generating Your Recovery Phrase

Connect your Ledger to a computer or phone using the USB cable. Upon powering up, you will be greeted with a welcome screen. Select the option to "Set up as a new device." Your Ledger will now perform a self-check and begin the most critical part of this entire process: generating your 24-word recovery phrase.

Think of these 24 words not as a password, but as the master key to your entire crypto portfolio. This phrase is mathematically generated within the secure chip of your device and has never existed anywhere else in the universe.

Your Action Plan:

Use the provided recovery sheet and a pen to write down each word, in the exact order it appears on the device's screen.

Verify your handwriting is clear and legible. This is no time for cursive flourishes.

Your device will then ask you to confirm the phrase by selecting a few of the words. This step is non-negotiable and ensures you have a perfect copy.

The Golden Rules of Key Ownership

Before we proceed, let's cement the fundamental principles of self-custody. Your security now rests on these pillars:

Your Ledger device is secure. It keeps your private keys isolated from internet-connected devices.

Your 24-word phrase is absolute. Anyone who possesses it possesses your crypto. Never digitize it. No photos, no cloud documents, no typing it into a computer.

You are the bank. With great power comes great responsibility. Store your recovery sheet in a safe, permanent, and private location.

Integrating with Ledger Live: Your Command Center

With your recovery phrase safely recorded, it's time to interact with the world. This is done through Ledger Live, our secure application platform.

1. Download Ledger Live from our official website and install it on your preferred device.
2. Follow the in-app prompts to "Initialize" your Ledger. During this process, you will be asked to set a PIN code. This PIN protects your physical device from unauthorized access. Choose one that is strong yet memorable for you.

Activating Your First Crypto Account

Ledger Live operates on an "app" model. To manage a cryptocurrency like Bitcoin or Ethereum, you first need to install its corresponding app via the "Manager" tab in Ledger Live. These apps are tiny but powerful, enabling your device to sign transactions for that specific blockchain.

To receive your first funds, navigate to the account for your chosen cryptocurrency and click "Receive." Ledger Live will generate a receiving address. The final, critical step is to "Verify the address on your Ledger device's screen." This ensures that no malware on your computer has altered the address, a powerful feature known as "Trusted Display."

You Have Achieved Self-Custody

By following this guide on Ledger.com/start, you have successfully migrated from being a mere user on a platform to becoming the undisputed owner of your digital assets. Your crypto is now protected by a state-of-the-art secure element, accessible only by you. Explore Ledger Live with confidence to buy, swap, and grow your portfolio. Welcome to the future of finance, secured by Ledger.