Ledger.com/Start Setup

Introduction

Welcome! If you’re new to cryptocurrency and you’ve just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet or are planning to, this guide walks you through the Ledger.com/Start Setup process. You’ll learn how to install the software, create a wallet, back up your recovery phrase, import accounts, and understand the underlying security model that protects your assets.

Step 1: Download & Install via Ledger.com/Start

1. Go to the official setup page: Ledger.com/Start. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
2. Select your hardware wallet model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax, etc.).
3. Download the companion app, Ledger Live (available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS & Android). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
4. Install the Ledger Live app, then launch it and click “Get Started”. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device

1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone via the supplied USB or Bluetooth (for devices that support it).
2. Select “Set up as new device” in the app.
3. Create a PIN code on your device (usually 4-8 digits) to protect access.
4. The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase (seed). Write it down carefully in the order shown. Never store it digitally or share it. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Security Tip: The 24-word seed is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.

Step 3: Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts

In Ledger Live:

• Navigate to “Manager” (or “My Ledger”) inside the app.
• Install the apps for each cryptocurrency you plan to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Then go to “Accounts”, click “Add account”, select asset and follow prompts. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Step 4: Send & Receive Crypto

1. To receive crypto: choose “Receive” in Ledger Live, select the account, connect device, verify address on device screen matches what you see on the app.
2. To send crypto: choose “Send”, enter recipient address & amount in Ledger Live, verify details on your device screen and approve with device buttons.

This flow ensures that even if your computer is compromised, the transaction details are verified securely by the Ledger device. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Understanding the Security Model

Ledger’s security model is built around the principle of self-custody and hardware isolation:

• Your private keys never leave the ledger device — they’re stored inside a certified Secure Element chip. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• The device features a Secure Screen which is directly driven by the Secure Element — this enforces “what you see is what you sign” and protects against address-switching malware. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Ledger Live acts merely as the interface; the actual signing happens on your hardware device.
• Therefore, you control your assets — not a third-party exchange or server.
• Nevertheless, your part of the security is crucial: backing up the recovery phrase, verifying the device is genuine, avoiding fake apps and phishing. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}