Ledger.com/Start®® Desktop — Getting Started | Official Ledger Wallet

Cryptocurrency has opened a world of financial freedom, but it also comes with a major responsibility: securing your digital assets. Unlike traditional banking, crypto is decentralized—meaning you are your own bank. If you lose your private keys or fall victim to a scam, there is no customer support line to reverse the damage. That’s why a hardware wallet is essential for anyone serious about crypto security.

If you're ready to take control of your crypto safely, Ledger.com/Start is the best place to begin.

What is Ledger?

Ledger is a leading provider of hardware wallets—physical devices designed to store your crypto private keys offline. This “cold storage” method keeps your keys away from hackers, phishing attacks, and malware that can target your computer or phone.

Ledger’s products are trusted by millions of users worldwide and are known for their high security standards and user-friendly experience.

Why Ledger.com/Start Is Your Best First Step

The first time you use a Ledger device, it can feel a bit intimidating. That’s why Ledger created Ledger.com/Start, a dedicated onboarding page that walks you through everything step-by-step.

From unboxing your device to setting up your wallet and safely storing your recovery phrase, Ledger.com/Start is designed to help beginners feel confident and secure.

What You’ll Learn at Ledger.com/Start

Here’s what you can expect when you visit Ledger.com/Start:

  1. Unboxing and Verification

Your Ledger device comes sealed and tamper-proof. Ledger.com/Start guides you through the verification process to ensure your device is genuine and safe to use.

  1. Initial Setup

You’ll learn how to:

Power on your Ledger device

Create a new wallet

Choose a PIN code

Generate your recovery phrase

The process is simple, but the instructions are clear and easy to follow.

  1. Storing Your Recovery Phrase Safely

Your recovery phrase is the most important part of your crypto security. Ledger.com/Start emphasizes how to store it safely—offline and out of sight.

Ledger recommends using durable storage methods like metal backup plates to protect your phrase from fire, water, or physical damage.

  1. Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion app that lets you manage your crypto accounts, send and receive coins, and check your portfolio—all while keeping your private keys safely offline.

Ledger.com/Start helps you install and connect Ledger Live to your device with step-by-step guidance.

  1. Sending and Receiving Crypto

Once your wallet is set up, Ledger.com/Start walks you through:

Adding accounts

Receiving crypto securely

Sending crypto safely

Confirming transactions on the device

This reduces the risk of mistakes and ensures you understand every step.

Why a Hardware Wallet Matters

Many new crypto users start with exchanges like Coinbase or Binance because they’re easy to use. But exchanges are centralized platforms, which means they can be hacked, frozen, or compromised.

When you hold crypto on an exchange, you’re trusting that platform to keep your funds safe. With a hardware wallet like Ledger, you control your private keys and keep your crypto truly yours.

Who Should Use Ledger?

Ledger is ideal for:

New crypto users who want a safe way to store their coins

Long-term investors who want to secure their assets

Crypto traders who need a reliable way to protect profits

Anyone holding high-value crypto who wants maximum security

If you’re serious about protecting your crypto, Ledger is the most trusted solution available.

Tips for Keeping Your Crypto Safe

Even with a hardware wallet, security is still a responsibility. Here are some best practices recommended on Ledger.com/Start:

Never share your recovery phrase with anyone

Do not store your recovery phrase digitally (not on your phone or computer)

Always buy from official sources to avoid counterfeit devices

Verify every transaction on your Ledger device

Use strong passwords for your accounts and apps

These simple steps can protect you from most common threats.

Ready to Start?

If you’re ready to secure your crypto properly, the best next step is to begin at Ledger.com/Start.

The onboarding process is simple, secure, and designed for beginners. With Ledger, you can confidently hold your crypto knowing your private keys are safe and under your control.