The **Official** Gateway to **Secure Crypto Management**
**Ledger.com/Start**: **Starting Up Your Device** Security
You've taken the essential step toward **Self-Custody**! **Ledger.com/Start** is the **Official**, verified address designed to initiate the **Starting Up Your Device** process for your new **Hardware Wallet**. This guided journey will ensure your device is genuine, your **Recovery Phrase** is secure in **Cold Storage**, and your **Digital Assets**—including **Bitcoin** and **Ethereum**—are protected by the highest **Device Security** standards. Follow this guide precisely to guarantee a flawless start to your **Secure Crypto Management** experience.
Phase 1: The **Starting Up Your Device** Checklist
1. **Official** Ledger Live Download
The very first step on **Ledger.com/Start** is downloading the **Official** **Ledger Live Desktop** application. This software acts as the secure bridge and user interface for your **Hardware Wallet**. **Device Security** is compromised if you use non-official sources. Ensure you download and install the version specific to your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux).
2. Power Up and Connect the Device
Connect your Ledger **Hardware Wallet** to your computer using the supplied USB cable. The device will power on and display a welcome message. This physical connection prepares the device for the initialization process. **Ledger Live** will prompt you to select 'Set up as a new device,' which is key for **Starting Up Your Device** with a fresh, secure foundation.
3. Setting the **PIN** Code
Your device will instruct you to choose a **PIN** (4-8 digits). Crucially, this is entered *only* on the **Hardware Wallet** screen, keeping it air-gapped from your computer. The **PIN** is your daily access key. If you enter it incorrectly three times, the device automatically wipes itself, requiring the **Recovery Phrase** for restoration—a core feature of **Device Security**.
These initial steps via **Ledger.com/Start** establish the basic trust and physical access controls needed before moving to the highest security component: the **Recovery Phrase**.
Phase 2: Securing Your Future with the **Recovery Phrase**
The **Recovery Phrase** (24 words) is the master backup of your **private keys**. It gives full access to your **Cold Storage** funds, including all **Bitcoin**, **Ethereum**, and other **Digital Assets**. This step must be completed with the utmost care, following the instructions displayed *only* on your **Hardware Wallet**.
CRITICAL: **Cold Storage** Rules
- **NEVER** digitize your **Recovery Phrase**. Do not take photos, store it in cloud drives, or type it into a computer.
- Write it down only on the **Official** recovery sheets provided in your Ledger box.
- Store it securely in **Cold Storage**—a physical, fireproof, waterproof, and hidden location.
- **Official Ledger Support** will **NEVER** ask for these 24 words. Any such request is a scam.
Verification and Finalization
After writing down the 24 words, your device will prompt you to confirm a selection of these words. This process, performed *on the device*, is essential to ensure you wrote them down correctly. This verification step, guided by **Ledger.com/Start**, locks in your ultimate **Device Security**. Once complete, your **Hardware Wallet** is ready to protect your **Secure Crypto Management**. The **Recovery Phrase** is the only key that can restore your device if it is lost or damaged.
Mastering the **Recovery Phrase** ensures your **Bitcoin** and **Ethereum** are truly in **Cold Storage** and under your complete control—the core promise of **Secure Crypto Management**.
Phase 3: Finalizing Your **Device Security** via **Ledger Live**
The final steps of **Starting Up Your Device** involve the software synchronizing with your newly initialized **Hardware Wallet**.
Running the Genuine Check
Within **Ledger Live**, a mandatory 'Genuine Check' is run. This proprietary **Official** process cryptographically verifies that your **Hardware Wallet** is an authentic Ledger product and is running the original, uncompromised firmware. This is a critical security step guided by **Ledger.com/Start** that confirms your device is safe for **Secure Crypto Management**. Without passing this check, you should not load any **Digital Assets**.
Setting Up Your First Accounts
Once verified, you can now install crypto applications (e.g., **Bitcoin**, **Ethereum**) via the Manager tab in **Ledger Live**. After installation, use the Accounts tab to add new accounts. The **Hardware Wallet** connects to the blockchain to generate your secure addresses. You are now ready to transfer funds from exchanges or other hot wallets directly into the secure environment of **Cold Storage**.
Congratulations! By following the **Official** **Ledger.com/Start** guide, you have successfully completed the **Starting Up Your Device** process and activated maximum **Device Security** for your **Digital Assets**.
Sustained **Secure Crypto Management**
**Starting Up Your Device** is just the beginning. Maintain vigilance to ensure your **Cold Storage** remains impenetrable.
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Always Check the URL:
Ensure you are at the **Official** **Ledger.com/Start** or Ledger Live app before initiating any secure action or update.
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Physical Verification is King:
Every time you send **Bitcoin** or **Ethereum**, verify the recipient address and amount *only* on the secure screen of your **Hardware Wallet**.
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Firmware Updates:
Install firmware updates promptly via the **Ledger Live Desktop** Manager tab to maintain peak **Device Security**.
Your adherence to these security principles, starting with **Ledger.com/Start**, is what makes Ledger the trusted name in **Secure Crypto Management** and **Cold Storage**.
Ready to Experience True **Self-Custody**?
If you have completed the **Starting Up Your Device** process, click below to launch **Ledger Live** and start viewing and managing your **Digital Assets**.
Launch **Ledger Live App**