Ledger.com/Start – Your Foundation in Digital Asset Security

The Importance of Starting Smart

The digital asset world offers unprecedented opportunities, but it comes with a fundamental responsibility: securing your private keys. Your Ledger device is the **gold standard** for this security, acting as an impenetrable vault for your keys. The **Ledger.com/Start** page is your crucial first stop—it guarantees you download the **genuine Ledger Live application** and follow the officially approved setup process. Never use search results or third-party links for this critical step.

Step 1: Unboxing and Initial Checks

When your new device arrives, take a moment to confirm its integrity.

• Check the Packaging: Ensure the box is sealed and free from any signs of tampering. Ledger employs specific security measures to prevent foul play during shipping.
• The Device Itself: Check the device casing for any pre-existing scratches or signs of prior use. A new Ledger device will **never** come with a pre-set PIN code or a pre-written 24-word recovery phrase. If it does, **do not proceed** and contact Ledger Support immediately.

Step 2: Downloading the Genuine Ledger Live

This is the most critical juncture. Navigate directly to Ledger.com/Start in your web browser. This page will direct you to the official source for the Ledger Live desktop application.

• Verify the URL: Double-check that the address in your browser is *exactly* **Ledger.com/Start**. Phishing sites are common and can look identical.
• Install the Application: Follow the instructions to download and install Ledger Live on your computer. This application is your gateway to managing your assets and updating your device.

Step 3: Setting Up Your Device

Once Ledger Live is open, select the option to set up a **new device**. The application will then guide you through the initial configuration process.

• Choose a Strong PIN: You will be prompted to set a **4 to 8-digit PIN** directly on the device. This PIN is your physical lock.
• The 24-Word Recovery Phrase (Your Master Key): This is the **most important** security measure. Your Ledger will display 24 unique words. Write It Down on the provided sheets.
• Secure Storage: This phrase is an **offline secret**. Store it in a secure location. **Never** digitize it or store it online.

Step 4: Making Your First Connection

• Connect Your Device: Use the official USB cable to connect your Ledger to your computer.
• Security Check: Ledger Live will run an internal **genuine check** to verify that your device is an authentic Ledger product.

Step 5: Installing Asset Applications

Your Ledger device has limited internal storage for asset-specific applications.

• Use the Manager: Within Ledger Live, navigate to the **Manager** section.
• Install Only What You Need: Select and install the applications for the digital assets you plan to hold.

Step 6: Creating Your First Secure Account

With the necessary asset application installed on your Ledger, you can now create a managed account within Ledger Live.

• Add Account: In Ledger Live, click **Add Account**.
• Confirmation: Follow the prompts, confirming the action on your Ledger device when asked. This ensures the private keys **never** leave the secure element.

Ongoing Best Practices

Keep your device and security practices sharp.

• Regular Updates: Use Ledger Live to keep your device's firmware and asset applications up-to-date.
• Always Confirm on the Device: When sending assets, you **must** review and confirm the recipient address and amount directly on your device's screen.
• The Secret is Offline: The security of your assets ultimately relies on the **secrecy and security of your 24-word recovery phrase**. Guard it above all else.