Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger™

Welcome to your complete guide to getting started with your Ledger™ hardware wallet. If you’ve chosen Ledger, you’ve already taken an important step toward securing your digital assets with industry-leading protection. This guide walks you through setup, security best practices, and essential tips to ensure your crypto stays safe from day one.

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What Is Ledger™?

Ledger™ is a hardware wallet designed to securely store cryptocurrency private keys offline. Unlike software wallets that remain connected to the internet, Ledger devices use Secure Element chips and proprietary operating systems to protect your assets from hackers, malware, and phishing attacks.

Popular models include:

• Ledger Nano S Plus™
• Ledger Nano X™

Both models support thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many ERC-20 assets.

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Why Use Ledger.com/Start®?

Ledger.com/Start® is the official setup page designed to guide users through the secure initialization process. It ensures you:

• Download authentic Ledger Live™ software
• Verify your device is genuine
• Create a secure PIN
• Generate and properly store your recovery phrase
• Install apps for supported cryptocurrencies

Using the official start page helps prevent counterfeit software downloads and phishing attempts.

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Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your Ledger™

1. Unbox and Inspect Your Device

Before powering on your device:

• Ensure the box is factory sealed
• Verify no tampering is visible
• Confirm all included accessories are present

Ledger devices do not come with a pre-written recovery phrase. If you find one in the box, do not use the device.

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2. Download Ledger Live™

Ledger Live™ is the official companion app used to manage your crypto portfolio.

To install:

1. Visit the official Ledger start page

2. Choose your device model

3. Download Ledger Live™ for:

   • Windows
   • macOS
   • Linux
   • iOS
   • Android

Only download Ledger Live from the official website. Never use links from emails, ads, or social media messages.

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3. Initialize Your Device

When turning on your Ledger device:

• Press both buttons to begin
• Choose “Set up as new device”
• Create a 4-8 digit PIN

PIN Best Practices:

• Avoid simple patterns (1234, 0000)
• Do not reuse ATM or phone PINs
• Never share your PIN with anyone

Your PIN protects the physical device. If someone enters the wrong PIN three times, the device resets.

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4. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most important step.

Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase:

• Is the master key to your funds
• Can restore your wallet on any compatible device
• Must be kept offline

Critical Rules:

• Write it down on the recovery sheet provided
• Never take photos of it
• Never store it in cloud storage
• Never type it into a computer
• Never share it with anyone

If someone has your 24 words, they control your crypto.

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5. Verify Recovery Phrase

Your device will ask you to confirm several words from the list. This ensures you copied them correctly.

Take your time. Accuracy is essential.

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6. Install Cryptocurrency Apps

After setup:

1. Open Ledger Live™
2. Go to Manager
3. Connect and unlock your device
4. Install apps for supported cryptocurrencies

Each crypto requires its own app. You can install and remove apps without affecting stored assets.

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Sending and Receiving Crypto

Receiving Assets

1. Open Ledger Live™
2. Click Receive
3. Choose your crypto account
4. Verify address on your device screen
5. Share the verified address

Always confirm the address displayed on the Ledger device itself — not just on your computer screen.

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Sending Assets

1. Click Send in Ledger Live™
2. Enter recipient address
3. Confirm transaction details
4. Verify on your Ledger device
5. Approve transaction

Your private keys never leave the device during this process.

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Essential Security Best Practices

1. Beware of Phishing

Ledger will never:

• Ask for your recovery phrase
• Ask for your PIN
• Call you to “secure your funds”
• Send you a recovery form

If someone asks for your 24 words, it’s a scam.

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2. Use Official Channels Only

Always access setup through:

• The official Ledger website
• The official Ledger Live app

Avoid search engine ads impersonating Ledger.

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3. Keep Firmware Updated

Firmware updates improve:

• Security
• Performance
• Compatibility

Install updates only through Ledger Live™.

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4. Store Recovery Phrase Securely

Consider:

• Fireproof storage
• Metal backup plates
• Secure physical safes

Never store it digitally.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Recognized

• Try a different USB cable
• Restart Ledger Live™
• Ensure firmware is current

Forgotten PIN

If you forget your PIN:

• Reset the device
• Restore using your 24-word recovery phrase

Without the recovery phrase, funds cannot be restored.

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Advanced Features

Passphrase (25th Word)

Advanced users can add a passphrase:

• Creates hidden wallets
• Adds extra protection
• Requires careful management

Only use this feature if you fully understand how it works.

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Staking

Ledger Live™ supports staking for selected cryptocurrencies. This allows you to earn rewards while maintaining custody of your assets.

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NFT Support

Ledger devices support NFTs on compatible blockchains through Ledger Live™ or supported third-party integrations.

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What Makes Ledger™ Secure?

Ledger devices use:

• Secure Element chips (bank-grade security)
• Custom BOLOS operating system
• Offline private key storage
• Physical transaction confirmation

Your keys remain isolated from internet-connected environments.

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Important Reminders

• Your recovery phrase = your crypto
• Ledger cannot recover lost phrases
• No customer support can access your wallet
• Always verify addresses on the device screen

Self-custody gives you control — but also full responsibility.

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Final Thoughts

Using Ledger.com/Start® ensures your crypto journey begins securely and correctly. By following official setup instructions and applying best security practices, you significantly reduce the risks associated with digital asset storage.

Ledger hardware wallets are powerful tools designed to provide peace of mind in an increasingly complex digital world. Take your time during setup, double-check every step, and store your recovery phrase securely.

Security is not a one-time action — it’s an ongoing commitment.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Ledger SAS or any related entity. “Ledger,” “Ledger Live,” “Ledger Nano S Plus,” and “Ledger Nano X” are trademarks of their respective owners. Always refer to the official Ledger website for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions.