Activate Your Ledger: The Official Setup Companion
Welcome to Lêdger.com/start, your definitive resource for initializing your new Lêdger hardware wallet. Consider this page your personal onboarding specialist, here to ensure your transition to self-custody is smooth, secure, and successful. In the next few minutes, you will transform this device into an unbreachable vault for your digital wealth. Let's begin.
Phase 1: Preparation is Key
Before you connect anything, let's set the stage for success. Carefully unbox your Lêdger device and locate the included recovery sheets. These are not mere notepads; they are the physical bedrock of your crypto security. Ensure you have a reliable pen and a plan for where you will store this sheet permanently—ideally in a fire-resistant safe or a secure location known only to you.
Phase 2: Core Configuration – Your Cryptographic Identity
This is where your sovereignty is established.
Power On and Choose Your Path: Connect your Lêdger device via the USB cable. When the screen lights up, you will see an option to "Set up as new device." Select this. You are telling your Lêdger to create a brand-new, unique cryptographic identity from scratch.
Scribing Your Seed Phrase: Your device will now generate a 24-word sequence—your Recovery Seed Phrase. This is the master key that can restore access to all your assets on any compatible wallet.
The Protocol:
Write each word clearly on your recovery sheet in the order presented.
Treat this action with the seriousness of signing a title deed. Accuracy is non-negotiable.
The device will then ask you to re-confirm a selection of these words. This is a vital quality check to prevent costly handwriting errors. Complete it diligently.
The Unbreakable Security Covenant
As you hold your completed recovery sheet, internalize these three immutable rules:
Rule of Isolation: The seed phrase never touches a digital device. It remains analog—ink on paper or stamped on metal.
Rule of Secrecy: You are the sole custodian. Lêdger support will never ask for it. No legitimate service ever will.
Rule of Redundancy: Create multiple copies stored in separate, secure physical locations to guard against loss or disaster.
Phase 3: Syncing with Lêdger Live – The Command Interface
Your Lêdger device is the vault; Lêdger Live is the secure interface you use to view and manage its contents.
Download the Application: Navigate to the official Lêdger website and download the Lêdger Live application to your computer or smartphone. This is the only application you should trust to manage your device.
Establish Your PIN: During the setup process, Lêdger Live will guide you to set a PIN code for your physical device. This 4 to 8-digit code is your first line of defense, preventing unauthorized physical access. Choose one that is distinct from any of your computer or exchange passwords.
Phase 4: Your First Sovereign Transaction
Theory is complete; let's put your security into practice.
Install Asset Apps: Navigate to the "My Lêdger" section in Lêdger Live. Here, you will see a catalog of available cryptocurrency applications (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polygon). "Installing" an app simply gives your device the ability to sign transactions for that specific blockchain. It's like adding a new key to your keyring.
The Receiving Ritual: To receive funds, select an account and click "Receive." Lêdger Live will display an address. Here is the magic of the hardware wallet: you must physically press both buttons on your Lêdger device to verify and approve this address. This "Trusted Display" confirmation ensures that even if your computer is compromised, a hacker cannot swap the address, as you see the genuine one on your secure Lêdger screen.
Welcome to Financial Sovereignty
You have now completed the Lêdger.com/start protocol. The cryptocurrencies you send to your Lêdger-secured addresses are now under your exclusive control, protected by one of the most secure systems available. Explore Lêdger Live to safely buy, swap, and grow your assets. You are no longer just an investor; you are your own bank. Welcome to the future of finance.