> LEDGER.COM/START

INITIATE SECURE DIGITAL OWNERSHIP PROTOCOL

// System Status: Keys Offline. Security Nominal.

1. The Unified Ledger Ecosystem

The page Ledger.com/start serves as the mandatory initial waypoint for every Ledger user. It is where the hardware component, the **Ledger Signer** (formerly known as the hardware wallet), meets the software interface, the **Ledger Wallet** (formerly **Ledger Live**). This pairing is fundamental to maintaining self-custody. The hardware device secures your private keys completely offline, while the software provides a user-friendly window into the decentralized world. Your digital assets remain on the blockchain; the Ledger Signer merely provides the cryptographically secure mechanism to sign and authorize transactions.

This integration ensures that while you get the convenience of a modern crypto management platform, you never compromise on the core principle of security, as every critical action must be physically confirmed on the secure screen of your Ledger Signer.

2. Ledger Wallet: Download & Access

2.1. Ledger Live Download (Desktop & App)

The absolute first step from the official Ledger starting point is obtaining the software. Whether you need the **Ledger Live Desktop** application for Windows, macOS, or Linux, or the **Ledger Live App** for iOS/Android, the official download link is centralized to prevent phishing attacks.

2.2. Ledger Live Login & Security

Crucially, there is no traditional **Ledger Live Login** process involving an email and password. Your access to the **Ledger Live Wallet** (and your accounts) is established solely by connecting your physical Ledger device and unlocking it with its self-contained PIN code. This mechanism ensures your sensitive credentials (your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase) are never typed into or stored on your computer or phone, making it resistant to most online threats. The physical connection acts as your "login."

2.3. Wallet Features

The **Ledger Wallet** is more than just a viewer; it's a complete Web3 gateway. Within the app, you can securely buy, sell, swap, and stake cryptocurrencies through integrated third-party services, manage your NFT portfolio, and connect to dApps—all while your Ledger Signer remains the ultimate security guardian.

3. The Ledger.com/start Setup Flow

  1. Unbox & Power On: Unpack your Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions to power it on.
  2. Generate Keys & Secure Phrase: Set a unique PIN code and, most importantly, write down your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP). This phrase is the master key to your assets and must be stored offline, never digitized.
  3. Download Ledger Live: Proceed to the official download link provided above to get the **Ledger Live Desktop** or **Ledger Live App** version.
  4. Connect & Verify: Open your newly installed **Ledger Live Wallet**, select the "Set up a new device" option, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your Ledger Signer. The software will perform a cryptographic check to verify your device is genuine.
  5. Install Apps: Use the Manager section in Ledger Live to install the blockchain applications (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your Ledger Signer.
  6. Create Accounts: Add your accounts for the installed crypto assets within the **Ledger Live Wallet** interface to start managing your funds.