Ledger.com/Start — Ignite your secure crypto journey
Official onboarding for Ledger hardware wallets. Simple, warm, and crystal-clear guidance to keep your private keys safe — combined with a sleek red-orange glass aesthetic.
Ledger isolates keys in a Secure Element chip and pairs them with Ledger Live — a polished app that lets you manage assets, updates, and integrations without sacrificing security.
Unbox → Ledger.com/start → Install Ledger Live → Create wallet
Begin at Ledger.com/startCore features
A certified Secure Element chip stores your private keys offline — the strongest industry standard for hardware wallets.
Generate a 24-word recovery phrase during setup. Proper backup practices protect you from device loss or damage.
Manage accounts, fiat conversions, NFT viewing, staking, and app catalog — all from a single secure interface.
Connect safely to decentralized exchanges, DeFi dApps and marketplaces using vetted integrations and hardware confirmations.
Step-by-step: Setup at Ledger.com/start
Confirm tamper-evident seals and purchase from official or authorized resellers only. Inspect packaging for authenticity.
Visit Ledger.com/start and download Ledger Live — the official app for firmware updates and account management.
Follow on-screen prompts to install the latest verified firmware — this ensures your device runs authentic, up-to-date code.
Set a strong PIN and generate your recovery phrase. Record the phrase physically and store it securely offline.
Add Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other accounts in Ledger Live. Each transaction requires physical confirmation on your Ledger device.
Use Ledger Live for swaps, staking, and NFT management. Review permissions carefully before connecting to dApps.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Ledger (Hardware) | Online Wallet | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private keys | Stored in Secure Element (you control) | Hosted by provider | Stored on device (subject to app risks) |
| Exposure to internet threats | Minimal — offline by design | High — always online | Moderate — depends on phone security |
| Restore method | 24-word recovery phrase | Account + password (provider dependent) | App backup or seed (varies) |
Benefits & best practices
Cold storage keeps your keys offline — removing the single largest attack vector in crypto. Ledger places industry-grade hardware protection into the hands of end-users.
- Store recovery phrase in fireproof/metal backup.
- Never enter recovery words online or in photos.
- Enable passphrase for hidden wallets if you need extra layers.
- Purchase only from official Ledger channels to avoid tampered devices.
Frequently asked questions
Yes—Ledger uses hardware isolation and secure update channels. Follow official setup steps at Ledger.com/start for maximum safety.
Use your recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger or compatible backup solution — funds remain secure.
Yes — connect Ledger to supported dApps through Ledger Live or verified Web3 integrations, always confirming transactions on-device.
Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X and newer models are supported with Ledger Live; compatibility updates are listed on Ledger.com/start.