A New Era of Digital Ownership Begins: Your Ledger.com/Start Guide
The world of digital assets—from cryptocurrencies to unique digital collectibles (NFTs)—is expanding at an unprecedented pace. With this innovation comes the responsibility of **self-custody**. You are the sole guardian of your digital wealth. This is where your Ledger device and the comprehensive resources at **Ledger.com/Start** become your most critical tools.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from unboxing to securing your first transactions, ensuring you establish an uncompromising foundation for managing your assets.
Phase 1: Unboxing and Preparation
The journey begins the moment you open your device package. Every Ledger hardware wallet—whether a Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Stax—is designed to provide the highest level of security through a certified **Secure Element** chip.
- **1.1 Verify Contents:** Ensure your package contains the Ledger device, a USB cable, and the vital **Recovery Sheets** (paper cards). The sheets must be completely blank. *Never* accept a device that comes with a pre-written or pre-set phrase.
- **1.2 Power On:** Connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile device using the supplied cable. The screen will power on and display a welcome message.
- **1.3 Access the Platform:** On your computer or smartphone, navigate directly to **Ledger.com/Start**. This official hub will direct you to download the authentic **Ledger Wallet** companion application.
**Crucial Note:** Only download the application from the link provided on the official Ledger platform. Protecting against counterfeit software is the first step in digital security.
Phase 2: Setting Up Your Device and PIN Code
The hardware device is your *signer*. It is the physical key that approves every transaction. Setting it up correctly is non-negotiable for security.
- **2.1 Choose Your Device in the Application:** Open the Ledger Wallet application and select your specific device model (e.g., Nano X, Nano S Plus).
- **2.2 Initiate Setup:** Follow the on-screen prompts in the application. When asked, select the option to **"Set up as a new device."** This action prompts the device to generate new, unique cryptographic keys, which is the cornerstone of your security.
- **2.3 Set a Secure PIN:** Your device will now prompt you to **"Choose PIN."** This code is your first line of physical defense, similar to a physical safe combination, which unlocks the device itself.
PIN Security Best Practices:
- Use the physical buttons on your Ledger device to select and confirm a unique code of **4 to 8 digits**. An 8-digit PIN is highly recommended for maximum protection.
- **Security Tip:** Avoid common patterns, birthdays, or sequential numbers. Choose a sequence only you know and can remember without writing down.
Phase 3: The Secret Recovery Phrase (The Master Key)
This is the most critical step in the entire setup process. Your device will now generate a unique, **24-word Secret Recovery Phrase**. This phrase is your **Master Backup Key**. It is the one and only way to restore your access to your digital assets if your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or stolen.
- **3.1 Write Down the Phrase:** Your device screen will display the words one-by-one, in a specific order (Word #1, Word #2, etc.).
- Use the official **Recovery Sheets** provided.
- Write down all **24 words** *exactly* as they appear, paying close attention to the spelling and the numerical order.
- **Never** capture this phrase digitally (no photos, no digital documents, no cloud storage). It must remain **offline** and physically secured.
- **3.2 Confirm and Verify:** After writing all 24 words, your device will prompt you to **confirm the phrase** by cycling through and asking you to select specific words from your list. This step ensures you have written it down correctly.
- **3.3 Secure Storage:** Once verified, carefully store your Recovery Sheets in a secure, fireproof, and private location that is only accessible to you. Your assets are only as safe as this paper record.
Phase 4: Finalizing Setup and the Genuine Check
With your PIN set and your Secret Recovery Phrase securely backed up, you can complete the device setup.
- **4.1 Final Device Confirmation:** Your device will display a message like **"Your device is ready"**. Press the buttons to access the main dashboard.
- **4.2 Run the Genuine Check:** Inside the Ledger Wallet application, you will be prompted to run a **Genuine Check**. This proprietary process uses cryptographic proof to verify that your Ledger hardware wallet is authentic and has not been tampered with. Only a genuine Ledger device possesses the secret key required for this verification to pass. This process is essential and only takes a moment.
Phase 5: Managing Assets with the Ledger Wallet Application
The Ledger Wallet application is your secure interface for interacting with your assets, while your private keys remain safely locked on the hardware device.
- **5.1 Install Asset Applications:** In the application's **Manager** section, you can install the specific asset applications (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) onto your hardware device. The Ledger Nano S Plus and Nano X models offer generous storage for numerous applications simultaneously.
- **5.2 Add Accounts:** Once the necessary applications are installed on your device, use the Ledger Wallet application to **Add Accounts** for those assets. This creates the public addresses you will use to receive funds.
- **5.3 Transacting with Confidence:**
- **Receiving Assets:** Generate a **Receiving Address** in the Ledger Wallet application. You must **always** verify this address on your Ledger device's trusted screen before sharing it or using it for a deposit.
- **Sending Assets:** When sending, the transaction details (amount, recipient address) are sent to your Ledger device. You **must** physically review and approve these details using the buttons on the hardware screen. This physical confirmation step is the cornerstone of Ledger’s security model, protecting you from malicious software on your computer or phone.
Phase 6: Advanced Security and Continued Learning
Your initial setup is complete, but security is an ongoing practice.
- **Stay Updated:** Regularly update your device's operating system and the Ledger Wallet application via the Manager section. Updates introduce new features and vital security enhancements.
- **Explore the Academy:** The resources available through the official Ledger platform are extensive. Take advantage of the **Ledger Academy** to deepen your understanding of self-custody, digital asset best practices, and protection against common digital threats.
By following this precise guide via **Ledger.com/Start**, you have successfully taken control of your digital ownership. You are now equipped with an industry-leading level of security, ready to confidently navigate and grow your portfolio in the digital economy. Welcome to self-custody.