Official Hardware Setup & Security Center
Welcome to Ledger.com/start: Begin Your Self-Custody Journey
Initialize your Ledger Nano X, S Plus, or Stax with cryptographic security. Download authentic Ledger Live software, verify hardware genuineness, establish your private PIN, and safeguard your independent digital sovereignty without compromise.
Critical Security Notice: Ledger will NEVER ask for your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase. Never enter these words on any smartphone app, computer keyboard, or website. Your 24 words must exclusively be generated by and entered into your physical Ledger device.
Four Steps to Secure Initialization
Follow the official four-stage deployment procedure verified by certified cryptographic standards.
STEP 01
Acquire Ledger Live
Download the official Ledger Live software for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android exclusively via ledger.com/start to prevent phishing risks.
STEP 02
Set Up PIN Code
Turn on your hardware device and choose a secure 4-to-8 digit PIN code directly using the physical buttons. Never choose predictable codes like 0000 or 1234.
STEP 03
Write Down 24 Words
Carefully record the 24 words generated on the internal screen onto the recovery sheets. Store them in a fireproof place offline. Never photograph them.
STEP 04
Cryptographic Check
Connect to Ledger Live to execute the hardware genuine check. Once verified authentic by the secure element chip, install your coin accounts safely.
Comprehensive Security Architecture at Ledger.com/start
Visiting Ledger.com/start is the mandatory starting point for anyone initializing a new Ledger hardware wallet. By initiating your journey through the certified portal, you shield yourself from malicious clone applications and credential harvesting tactics. Ledger devices combine an industry-grade Secure Element chip (CC EAL6+) with BOLOS, Ledger's proprietary operating system. This unique isolation ensures that your private keys never touch an internet-connected operating system, protecting your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of alternative crypto assets from keyloggers, remote malware, and unauthorized transactions.
Why You Must Never Enter 24 Words Online
Your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase is the Master Key to all your blockchain balances. It is generated using an autonomous cryptographically random number generator inside the Secure Element. A legitimate Ledger setup process will never present words in your computer browser or request you to type them on a keyboard. Scammers frequently buy search advertisements imitating start portals to capture these words. Keep this unalterable rule in mind: if an application or representative asks you to input your 24 words, it is an unequivocal fraud attempt.
Completing the Cryptographic Genuine Check
Every authentic Ledger device possesses a unique cryptographic attestation token injected during factory manufacture. When you link your device to the Ledger Live desktop or mobile app via Ledger.com/start, the software conducts an asymmetric handshake with Ledger's secure root server. This mathematical check mathematically proves that the device is not counterfeit and hasn't been intercepted or modified during transit. Upon passing, you can manage accounts, transfer tokens, interact with Web3 protocols, and stake assets with total confidence.
Supported Cryptos & Tokens
Devices Secured Worldwide
CC EAL6+
Certified Secure Element Grade
