Ledger.com/Start: Your Essential Guide to Digital Asset Security

The Foundation: Why Security is Paramount

In the rapidly evolving world of digital finance, **security is not a feature—it is the foundation**. Your assets are not held in a bank vault; they are secured by cryptographic keys that only you should control. This is the fundamental premise of digital ownership. For newcomers and seasoned participants alike, understanding the critical difference between leaving assets on an exchange and taking direct custody is the single most important step. Ledger provides the robust, non-custodial solution that empowers you to become your own ultimate safeguard, giving you **absolute control and peace of mind** over your financial value.

This guide is your official roadmap. We'll navigate the process of setting up your device, securing your recovery phrase, and interacting safely with the digital ecosystem. Follow these steps meticulously to establish a security posture that is second to none.

Step 1: Unboxing and Initial Device Setup

A. Verification of Authenticity

Before connecting, always **verify the integrity of your packaging**. Ensure the seals are intact and there is no sign of tampering. This initial inspection confirms you have a genuine Ledger product. Once verified, connect your device to your computer via the provided cable and follow the on-screen prompts to begin the process.

B. Setting Your Personal PIN Code

Your PIN code is your local, physical safeguard. Choose a sequence that is **unique to you**—avoid obvious combinations like birthdays or sequential numbers. This code is what you will enter on the device itself every time you wish to access or approve a transaction. Remember it, but never write it down near the device.

Step 2: The Critical Recovery Phrase (Seed)

A. Understanding Your 24 Words

The **24-word Recovery Phrase** is the *master key* to your entire digital fortune. It is not stored by Ledger, and it is the only way to restore access to your assets if your device is lost or damaged. You must treat this sequence of words with the highest level of caution. The device will generate this phrase, and you must copy it exactly.

B. The Golden Rule of Storage

• **Write it Down:** Use the provided recovery sheets. Write clearly and double-check every word for spelling and order.
• **Never Digitize It:** Do not take a photo, type it into a computer, store it in a cloud service, or send it via any electronic means.
• **Storage Location:** Store your written phrase in **multiple, physically secure, and geographically distinct locations**—a fireproof safe, a safety deposit box, etc.
• **Verification:** Your Ledger device will prompt you to verify the phrase. This step is mandatory and ensures you have a correct, readable copy.

Step 3: Installation of the Companion Application

To view your balances, manage your digital assets, and install specific asset applications on your Ledger device, you will need the dedicated **companion application**. This desktop application serves as your secure interface with the blockchain. Download it **only from the official Ledger website**. Install the application and then connect your device to begin interacting with the supported asset applications.

Managing Your Asset Applications

Each different type of digital asset (e.g., BTC, ETH) requires a small, specific application to be installed on your Ledger device. Use the companion application's manager interface to install the necessary apps for the assets you intend to hold. Remember, installing or uninstalling these apps does not affect your assets, which are secured by your 24-word phrase.

Step 4: Securing Your First Transaction

The final step in your journey is successfully conducting a transaction. This is where the security benefits of the Ledger device become tangible.

To receive assets, simply generate a receiving address within the companion application and **always verify that address on your Ledger screen**. The screen is a secure element that cannot be compromised by a malicious computer.

To send assets, initiate the transfer in the companion application. Critically, the details of the transaction—the amount and the recipient's address—will be displayed on your **Ledger device screen**. You must manually confirm these details using the physical buttons on your device. This is the **hardware-level confirmation** that prevents any form of remote interception or manipulation.