INITIATE SECURE DIGITAL OWNERSHIP PROTOCOL
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.
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.
OFFICIAL DOWNLOAD LINK:
https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live/downloadCrucially, 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."
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.