Ledger Start
Secure your crypto — hardware-backed, simple to begin

Ledger Start — Secure your crypto with confidence

Ledger Start is the official guide and product line to help you move from curiosity to confident self-custody. Whether you’re buying your first Bitcoin, exploring DeFi, or building a long-term crypto treasury, Ledger Start combines hardened hardware security, user-friendly setup, and ecosystem integrations to keep your assets safe and accessible.

Why choose Ledger Start?

The cryptocurrency world offers unprecedented financial sovereignty — but that sovereignty comes with responsibility. Custodying your own assets requires tools that protect keys from theft, accidental loss, and human error. Ledger Start is designed for people who want practical, tested solutions: hardware devices that isolate keys, software that simplifies wallet management, and documentation that teaches secure habits for life.

Security without complexity

Ledger devices use a secure element — a hardened chip designed to resist physical and remote attacks. That means critical operations like signing a transaction take place inside the secure chip, inaccessible to your computer or the internet. Ledger Start pairs that hardware with an interface that walks you through every step without jargon.

One device, many coins

Ledger supports hundreds of coins and tokens across different blockchains. Ledger Start helps you configure accounts, add supported tokens, and connect to popular DeFi services, all while keeping your private keys offline and safe.

Trusted ecosystem

Ledger is widely integrated: exchanges, wallets, and services support Ledger's standard workflows. Ledger Start emphasizes secure integrations and partner recommendations so you can interact with the ecosystem confidently.

Designed for growth

Start small — buy or transfer a test amount first. As you grow more comfortable, explore advanced features like multisignature setups, staking, and developer integrations. Ledger Start provides guidance for each step, so your security scales with your needs.

Security fundamentals

Ledger Start teaches you three core principles: generate keys offline, back up seeds securely, and verify every signed action. These principles minimize risk without requiring you to become a security expert.

Private keys & secure element

The secure element inside Ledger devices isolates private keys and performs cryptographic operations. Signing requires physical confirmation on the device’s buttons or screen — your computer or phone cannot sign transactions for you.

Recovery seed

During setup, Ledger Start guides you to generate a recovery seed phrase and instructs secure storage methods. The seed is the ultimate backup — if you lose the device, the seed restores access to funds. Ledger Start recommends offline storage options, including metal backups and geographically separated copies.

Supply-chain hygiene

Only purchase Ledger devices from authorized sellers. Ledger Start explains how to verify packaging and initial device integrity during first-time setup to ensure your device hasn’t been tampered with before it generated keys.

Get started in minutes

Ledger Start breaks onboarding into clear, actionable steps. We keep the friction low while preserving rigorous security checks at every step.

  1. Buy an official Ledger device from an authorized channel.
  2. Install Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device and follow the guided setup.
  3. Create and write down your recovery seed; verify it with the device.
  4. Add accounts for the coins you hold; transfer a small test amount to confirm flow.
  5. Explore staking, swaps, and dApp connections via Ledger Live or trusted third-party apps.

Ledger Start also includes troubleshooting tips — from USB cable recommendations to OS permission checks — so new users avoid common pitfalls.

Advanced features & use cases

Ledger Start supports power-user workflows as your needs evolve. Below are common paths users take once they’re comfortable with core custody basics.

  • Staking: Delegate or stake supported coins directly from Ledger Live with device-confirmed operations.
  • Swaps & exchanges: Access built-in swap partners to exchange assets without exposing your keys.
  • Multisig & team custody: Set up multi-signature wallets for business or treasury management to eliminate single points of failure.
  • Developer integrations: Use Ledger in developer workflows that require hardware signing for smart contract deployments or secure transaction pipelines.

FAQ — common questions

Q: Is Ledger a cloud wallet?
A: No — Ledger devices store private keys on the device itself. Ledger Live and other apps interact with the device to prepare transactions, but signing happens offline on the secure chip.
Q: What if I lose my Ledger?
A: Recover your accounts using the recovery seed on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. Keep the seed secure and offline.
Q: Can I use Ledger with mobile dApps?
A: Yes — many mobile wallets and dApps support Ledger through Bluetooth (on supported devices) or via USB adapters. Ledger Start outlines recommended partner apps and connection methods.
Q: Does Ledger collect my keys or transaction data?
A: Ledger does not have access to your private keys. Some telemetry may be optional for product improvement; Ledger Start explains opt-in privacy choices during setup.

Ready to start?

Ledger Start is the bridge between curiosity and secure self-custody. Start with a safe purchase, follow the guided setup, and build strong backup habits. Protect your keys, protect your future.