Welcome to Your Secure Journey: Setting Up Your Ledger at Ledger.com/Start
In the digital asset landscape of 2026, the transition from centralized exchanges to self-custody is the single most important step you can take to protect your wealth. When you use a Ledger hardware wallet, you are moving your private keys into a "cold storage" environment—completely isolated from internet-connected threats like hackers, malware, and phishing.
Your journey to total ownership begins at the official setup portal: Ledger.com/start.
Why Ledger is the Industry Leader in 2026
Ledger wallets (now often referred to as Ledger Signers) utilize a proprietary operating system (BOLOS) and a Secure Element (EAL6+) chip—the same grade of security found in credit cards and diplomatic passports.
Key Features of the 2026 Ecosystem:
- Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live): The all-in-one desktop and mobile command center that allows you to buy, sell, swap, and stake your assets directly from cold storage.
- Clear Signing: Ledger’s secure screens ensure you see the full, human-readable details of any smart contract before you sign, protecting you from "blind signing" scams.
- Multichain Connectivity: Native support for over 5,500 coins and NFTs, including deep integration for Ethereum, Solana, Bitcoin, and Polygon.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Follow these steps carefully to ensure your device is initialized correctly and securely.
1. Secure the Official Software
Navigate to Ledger.com/start and download the Ledger Wallet app.
⚠️ Security Warning: Only download the app from the official site. Scammers often create fake versions of Ledger Wallet on app stores. Verify the developer is Ledger.
2. Connect and Authenticate
Connect your Nano S Plus, Nano X, Flex, or Stax to your computer via USB. The app will perform a Genuine Check. This cryptographic handshake verifies that your device has not been tampered with and was produced by Ledger's official factory.
3. Choose Your PIN Code
Set a 4 to 8-digit PIN code. This code unlocks your physical device.
- Tip: Avoid simple sequences like
1234or0000. An 8-digit PIN provides the optimal level of security.
4. Write Down Your Secret Recovery Phrase
This is the most critical step. Your device will generate a 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase.
- Write it down: Use the recovery sheets provided in the box.
- Store it offline: Keep it in a fireproof, waterproof, and secret location.
- Never digitize it: Never take a photo of these words or type them into a computer or phone. Ledger will never ask for your 24 words.
5. Install Apps and Add Accounts
Once the device is ready, use the Manager section in Ledger Wallet to install the apps for the coins you hold (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). After installing the app, click "Add Account" to generate your secure deposit addresses.
The 2026 Security Checklist
| Action | Why it Matters |
|---|---|
| Verify on Device | Always check that the address on your computer screen matches the address on your Ledger device. |
| Enable Passkey | Use your Ledger as a FIDO2 Security Key to protect your logins for sites like Google or X. |
| Sync Devices | Use Ledger Sync to securely mirror your accounts between your desktop and mobile phone every 10 seconds. |
| Trust Your Screen | If the details on your Ledger screen differ from what you see on your computer, do not sign the transaction. |
Taking the Next Step
By completing the setup at Ledger.com/start, you have successfully secured your digital future. You can now explore the Discover section within the app to interact with the world of DeFi and NFTs with peace of mind.