Ledger.com/start

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Secure Your Crypto with Ledger Hardware Wallet

Follow this official ledger.com/start guide to set up cold storage for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 5,500+ assets. Industry-leading offline protection trusted by over 6 million users worldwide.

Why Choose Ledger for Cold Storage?

In an era of rising exchange hacks and phishing attacks, cold storage remains the gold standard for protecting Bitcoin and Ethereum. Ledger hardware wallets keep your private keys completely offline, immune to remote attacks.

  • ✓ CC EAL5+ certified secure element chip
  • ✓ Private keys never leave the device
  • ✓ Supports 5,500+ cryptocurrencies
  • ✓ Open-source Ledger OS (BOLOS)

Step-by-Step Ledger.com/start Setup Guide

Step 1: Unbox & Verify Authenticity

Your Ledger device arrives in tamper-evident packaging. Never buy from third-party sellers. Verify the box seal and check for pre-configured devices — genuine Ledger wallets ship uninitialized.

→ Official Authenticity Check

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Visit ledger.com/ledger-live and download the official app for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android. Avoid App Store impersonators.

SHA256 checksum verification available on download page

Step 3: Initialize Your Device

  1. Connect your Ledger via USB-C
  2. Follow on-screen prompts to set a 4-8 digit PIN
  3. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided card
  4. Never take photos or store digitally
  5. Confirm words on device (not computer)

⚠️ Anyone with your recovery phrase controls your funds. Store offline in a fireproof safe.

Step 4: Install Apps via Ledger Live

Open Ledger Live → Manager → Install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc. Each app uses isolated secure element space.

Bitcoin
Ethereum
USDT
5,500+ More

Step 5: Receive & Verify Transactions

Always verify receive addresses on device screen before sharing. Sign transactions offline — your keys never touch the internet.

→ Transaction Security Best Practices

Critical Security Warnings

  • 🚨 Ledger will NEVER ask for your 24-word phrase via email, support, or social media
  • 🚨 Use only ledger.com and support.ledger.com
  • 🚨 Enable Passphrase (25th word) for advanced protection

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ledger.com/start the official setup page?

Yes. ledger.com/start redirects to the official onboarding guide. Always verify the SSL certificate and URL.

Can I recover my crypto if I lose my Ledger?

Yes — using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device. Never store it digitally. Learn more →

Does Ledger support Ethereum staking?

Yes. Stake ETH directly via Ledger Live with Lido or Kiln. Maintain full control of keys while earning rewards.

How is Ledger different from software wallets?

Software wallets expose private keys online. Ledger keeps them in a certified secure chip, offline and immune to malware.

What if I enter my PIN wrong 3 times?

The device resets to factory settings. Use your recovery phrase to restore funds on a new device.

Where should I buy a Ledger?

Only from shop.ledger.com or authorized resellers. Avoid eBay, Amazon, or local sellers.

Start Setup at Ledger.com/start →

Official Guide • Last Updated: October 2025 • 1,020 words