Welcome to your gateway for secure self-custody. In this guide we explore how Ledger.com/Start helps you begin your crypto journey with confidence, maintain control of your assets, and build long-term habits for safety and growth.
When entering the world of cryptocurrencies, one of the first questions you’ll face is: “How do I keep my assets safe?” That’s where Ledger as a brand stands out. Their hardware wallets — combined with a companion app — offer a way to hold your own keys, shield yourself from online attacks, and stay in control of your digital future. According to their site, they provide “non-custodial wallets, like Ledger’s, enable you to fully own and control your crypto.” :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
“Not your keys, not your coins” is more than a slogan — it’s a foundational principle in crypto security. With Ledger hardware wallets, your private keys are stored offline, in a secure element chip, making them much harder to compromise. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Ledger supports thousands of coins and tokens, and allows you not only to store but also to buy, swap, stake and manage them via the companion app. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Here’s a walkthrough of how to get up and running with Ledger’s official “Start” page and begin securing your crypto journey.
Begin by ordering a Ledger-certified hardware wallet (from the official site) and unpacking it. Ensure the seal is intact and you received a genuine product. Then connect it to your computer or smartphone and begin setup as guided. The “Start” page walks you through this process. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Download and install the official app for your system. This app is your portal to manage your accounts, install crypto apps on the device, and monitor your assets. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
When you set up your device you’ll choose a PIN and be shown a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). Write this down securely offline — it’s your lifeline if you lose your device. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Once your device is set up and linked with the app, you can add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, and many more. Use the app’s “Accounts” section to add and manage them. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
You can receive crypto by sharing your public address. When sending, your device will sign the transaction offline, then broadcast it through the app. This keeps your keys safe. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
The Ledger ecosystem integrates with on-ramp and DeFi providers so you can buy crypto, swap assets, or stake holdings — all while your keys stay secure. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Once you’ve set things up, maintaining good habits is just as important as the initial setup. Here are key practices to adopt.
Your seed phrase must never be entered into software or shared with anyone. Hardware wallets assume this phrase is unique and offline; any compromise of it nullifies many of the device’s protections. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Don’t reuse a seed phrase from a software wallet and import it into your hardware wallet — if that seed was ever online it exposes the risk. Create fresh keys on your device instead. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Update your device firmware and the companion app regularly so you always benefit from the latest security patches and features. Visit the official site for updates. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Always download the app from the official site. Beware of fake apps imitating legitimate ones — these are common in the crypto space. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
The crypto space can be exhilarating — new technologies, emerging assets, rapid innovation. But where there’s opportunity, there’s risk. By building a secure foundation early, you give yourself the freedom to explore without constantly worrying about “what if I get hacked?”
Your crypto assets are only as safe as the keys that control them. Hardware wallets like Ledger’s elevate your protection above many alternatives. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Once you trust your setup, you can engage with new coins, NFTs, staking and DeFi ecosystems without the fear of losing everything due to basic mistakes. You already took the smart step. The rest is about growing your knowledge. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Crypto is often volatile and unpredictable. But one thing remains consistent: ownership. If you let a third-party keep your keys, you risk losing access. With your own hardware wallet, you’re in the driver’s seat. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
You’ve begun the setup, but there’s always more to learn and explore.
Check out Ledger Academy for beginner-friendly guides on wallets, staking, chain mechanics, scams, and more. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Decide how active you want to be: buy & hold, stake, explore NFTs, join Web3. Each path has its own security implications and opportunities.
The crypto world evolves fast. New threats emerge. Staying alert, keeping software current, verifying links, and practicing safe habits will make all the difference.
Use ledger.com/start as your trusted go-to for official guidance and updates.
Engage in forums and groups (properly vetted!) to learn from others, ask questions, and keep your knowledge fresh.