Welcome to Ledger – Your First Step to Ultimate Crypto Security

Begin Your Secure Crypto Journey

Welcome to Ledger Start – your dedicated gateway to securing your digital assets with world-class protection. Whether you're new to cryptocurrency or an experienced trader, this guide will help you set up your Ledger device and take control of your financial sovereignty.

At Ledger, we believe true ownership means complete control over your private keys. Our hardware wallets provide military-grade security combined with intuitive management tools, giving you the confidence to explore Web3 while keeping your assets safe from online threats.

Why Choose Ledger?

• Unmatched Security: Powered by Secure Element chips (CC EAL5+ certified)

• Complete Ownership: Your keys never leave your device

• Universal Compatibility: Manage 5,500+ coins and tokens

• Trusted by Millions: Over 6 million devices sold worldwide

Getting Started: 3 Simple Steps to Security

Step 1: Prepare Your Setup

What's in the box:

• Your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax)

• USB-C cable

• Recovery sheet

• Keychain strap

Before you begin:

1. Ensure you're using a secure computer or mobile device

2. Bookmark the official Ledger website to avoid phishing sites

3. Have your recovery sheet ready for the setup process

Step 2: Initialize Your Device

A. Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live, our all-in-one companion app, from our official website:

• Desktop: Download for macOS/Windows/Linux

• Mobile: Available on iOS App Store and Google Play Store

B. Set Up Your Device

1. Connect your Ledger device using the provided USB-C cable

2. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose your PIN code

3. Important: Your PIN should be 4-8 digits – make it memorable but secure

⚠️ Security Alert: Never share your PIN with anyone. Ledger will never ask for it.

Step 3: Secure Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical security step. Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to all your crypto assets.

Do:

• Write each word in order on your recovery sheet

• Store it in a fireproof safe or secure location

• Consider a steel backup solution for added protection

Don't:

• Never take a photo or digital copy

• Never store it on any internet-connected device

• Never share it with anyone, ever

Verification: Your device will ask you to confirm random words from your phrase to ensure you've recorded it correctly.

Mastering Ledger Live: Your Command Center

Once set up, Ledger Live becomes your dashboard for all crypto activities:

Portfolio Management

• Track real-time balances across all your accounts

• View performance charts and transaction history

• Get a holistic view of your entire crypto portfolio

Secure Transactions

• Receive: Generate addresses verified on your device screen

• Send: Double-check destination addresses before confirming

• Swap: Exchange tokens directly within the secure environment

Earn & Grow

• Staking: Earn rewards on PoS assets like ETH, DOT, and SOL

• Buy Services: Purchase crypto directly with bank transfer or card

• DeFi Access: Connect securely to decentralized applications

Advanced Security Features

Ledger Recover (Optional)

Our optional subscription service provides a backup of your recovery phrase through encrypted fragments held by three independent parties. Only you can reconstruct your phrase with identity verification.

Passphrase Protection

Add an optional 25th word (passphrase) for creating hidden wallets, providing an extra layer of security beyond your 24-word phrase.

Transaction Verification

Every transaction requires manual verification on your device screen, ensuring no malware can alter destination addresses or amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is my Ledger device already set up when it arrives?

No. Your Ledger device arrives completely blank and must be initialized by you personally. During setup, you will create your own PIN and generate your unique 24-word recovery phrase. If your device appears pre-configured, do not use it and contact support immediately.

2. Can I use one Ledger device for multiple blockchains?

Yes. Your single Ledger device can manage countless accounts across different blockchains simultaneously. You simply install the relevant app for each blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) through Ledger Live, and all accounts remain protected by the same recovery phrase.

3. What happens if Ledger goes out of business?

Your crypto remains completely safe. Ledger devices are non-custodial, meaning you own your private keys. You can always restore your 24-word recovery phrase on any compatible wallet software (following the BIP39 standard). The value and accessibility of your assets are independent of our company's operations.

4. How do I update my device's firmware?

Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available. Connect your device, navigate to "Manager" in Ledger Live, and follow the prompts. Regular updates are crucial for security enhancements and new features. Never update through any website or app other than Ledger Live.

5. Can I recover my assets if I lose both my device AND recovery phrase?

Unfortunately, no. This is why we emphasize securing your recovery phrase above all else. Without those 24 words, the crypto associated with that phrase is permanently inaccessible. Consider secure backups like fireproof safes or steel plates, and never store your phrase digitally.

6. Is Ledger Live required to use my hardware wallet?

While Ledger Live provides the most seamless experience, you can use your Ledger device with various third-party wallets like MetaMask, Electrum, or Phantom. Your private keys remain secure on the device regardless of which interface you use. However, for initial setup and firmware updates, Ledger Live is necessary.

Pro Tips for New Users

Start Small

Before transferring significant amounts, practice with a small test transaction to ensure you understand the process.

Enable 2FA on Exchanges

When moving funds from exchanges to your Ledger, ensure you have two-factor authentication enabled on your exchange accounts.

Bookmark Official Sites

Always access Ledger services through bookmarked official links to avoid phishing scams.

Stay Informed

Subscribe to our blog and follow official social channels for security updates and feature announcements.

Use Multiple Accounts

Create separate accounts for different purposes (savings, trading, NFTs) for better organization and privacy.

Need Help?

Our support ecosystem ensures you're never alone:

• 24/7 Help Center: Comprehensive guides and troubleshooting

• Ledger Academy: Free educational resources for all skill levels

• Community Forum: Connect with other Ledger users

• Live Support: Direct assistance from our security experts

Ready to Secure Your Digital Future?

Your journey to true financial sovereignty begins now. With your Ledger device initialized and recovery phrase secured, you're protected by the most robust security technology available.

Next Steps:

1. Explore Ledger Academy to deepen your knowledge

2. Discover Web3 apps compatible with Ledger

3. Join our community of security-conscious users

Last updated: March 2024

Remember: In the world of crypto, security is not a feature – it's the foundation. With Ledger, you're building on the strongest foundation available.