Ledger.com/start — The Complete HTML Guide to Securing Your Crypto

Step-by-step onboarding for Ledger Nano S Plus and Nano X: Ledger Live installation, device initialization, recovery phrase protection, and long-term security habits for Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins, NFTs and Web3.

Why Ledger.com/start matters

The difference between custody and self-custody is decisive: exchanges hold private keys for you; a Ledger device keeps keys offline under your control. This is the official entry point that guarantees you download Ledger Live and initialize your wallet securely—protecting you from fake apps, phishing sites, and malicious installers.

Quick truth

Your hardware wallet protects the keys; your recovery phrase restores ownership. Treat both with equal seriousness.

What Ledger.com/start does (at a glance)

Download Ledger Live from the official source
Initialize device & install firmware
Generate a 24-word recovery phrase
Set a secure PIN for physical protection
Add chain apps (BTC, ETH, SOL, etc.)
Send/receive with button-confirmed signing

Step-by-step: Initialize your Ledger safely

Step 1 — Connect & verify

Use the included USB cable and power your Ledger on. Verify the package wasn't tampered with and that the device boots to a clean Ledger welcome screen.

Step 2 — Go to Ledger.com/start

Only download Ledger Live from this page. Avoid links in emails, social posts, or chat apps—phishing is rampant and sophisticated.

Step 3 — Create the recovery phrase

The device will display 24 words one by one. Write them legibly on paper or use a steel backup. Never copy them to a phone or cloud service.

Step 4 — Choose a PIN

Pick a PIN nobody could guess; do not reuse passwords or common sequences. The PIN protects physical access to your device.

Step 5 — Install apps & add accounts

Use Ledger Live to add coin apps and create accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, BNB Chain, Polygon, stablecoins and ERC-20 tokens.

Security cornerstone

Every transaction must be physically confirmed on your Ledger. Even if malware controls your PC, it cannot sign transactions without you pressing the device buttons.

Comparison: Ledger hardware wallet vs. exchanges & software wallets

Ledger (hardware)

Private keys generated and stored offline; physical confirmation for signing; best for long-term storage and large holdings; resistant to remote hacks.

Software / Mobile wallets

Convenient for daily use; keys often stored on internet-connected devices; more exposed to malware and phishing.

Exchanges / Custodial

Platform stores keys for you; high convenience for trading but higher systemic risk (hacks, freezes, insolvency).

Top security habits (pro checklist)

• Store your 24-word recovery phrase in two separate, secure physical locations (paper + steel plate recommended).
• Never photograph, screenshot, or copy your recovery words to any digital device.
• Verify addresses on the Ledger screen before approving transactions (not just on your computer).
• Keep firmware up to date via Ledger Live, but only when you initiated the update from the official site.
• Teach a trusted heir how to restore your wallet if long-term inheritance is part of your plan.

Common mistakes that cause loss (avoid these)

• Entering your recovery phrase into any website or support chat — always a scam.
• Saving the phrase in cloud storage, notes apps, or email.
• Purchasing devices from unofficial sellers (risk of tampering).
• Storing seed words and the device together in an unsecured place.
• Accepting remote help to set up your wallet — no legitimate support will ever ask for your 24 words.

Quote

"Your Ledger device secures the keys; your habits secure your wealth. Protect both."

Frequently asked questions

If my Ledger is lost or destroyed, do I lose crypto?

No. As long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your entire wallet on a new device or compatible wallet software that supports the same seed standard.

Can Ledger manage NFTs and DeFi interactions?

Yes. Ledger Live plus supported Web3 integrations allow you to view NFTs and connect to dApps while keeping keys offline during signing.

Should I ever enter my recovery phrase online?

Never. If any service, person, or website asks for your 24 words, it is a scam.

Final takeaway

Ledger.com/start is not just a URL — it is the trusted path to true crypto ownership. Download Ledger Live, initialize your device correctly, guard your recovery phrase like a deed, adopt disciplined security habits, and you will transform digital assets into personal property that no one else can seize.