
Ledger Start: Your Gateway to Digital Independence
Welcome to Self-Custody
Congratulations. By visiting this page, you've taken the first step toward true ownership of your digital wealth. In an interconnected world where digital assets represent freedom, innovation, and opportunity, securing them is your fundamental right. Ledger is not just a product—it's the most trusted platform for achieving digital sovereignty. Since 2014, we have been pioneering hardware wallet technology, empowering over 6 million users across the globe to secure their cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and digital identity with confidence.
Why Start with Ledger?
The foundational promise of cryptocurrency is ownership without intermediaries. However, leaving assets on exchanges or in software wallets leaves you vulnerable. Ledger bridges this gap. Our devices combine an ultra-secure, offline environment with an intuitive interface, making self-custody accessible to everyone—from your first Bitcoin to a complex DeFi portfolio.
Your Security, Architectured
The Core Innovation: Secure Element + Proprietary OS
Unlike software wallets or general-purpose hardware, a Ledger is built from the ground up for one purpose: to isolate and protect your cryptographic private keys.
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Bank-Grade Secure Element (SE) Chip: At the heart of every Ledger device is a certified Secure Element (CC EAL5+), the same chip technology used in passports, credit cards, and payment systems. It is a tamper-resistant fortress that physically shields your keys from attacks, even if your connected computer is compromised.
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BOLOS (Blockchain Open Ledger Operating System): Our proprietary, flexible OS operates within the Secure Element. It ensures each crypto application (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum app) runs in complete isolation, so a vulnerability in one cannot affect another. Every transaction must be physically verified and approved on the device's screen.
The Recovery Phrase: Your Universal Key
During setup, your Ledger generates a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is a human-readable representation of your private keys.
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It is your master backup. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it securely offline.
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It is portable. This phrase can restore your entire portfolio on any compatible wallet, making you independent of any single device or brand.
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It is private. Ledger never knows this phrase. You are always in control.
Choose Your Foundation
Select the device that fits your journey. All provide the same unparalleled security core.
Ledger Stax
For those who seek a premium, intuitive experience.
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Designed by Tony Fadell, creator of the iPod.
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Curved E Ink® touchscreen for clear visualization of NFTs and transaction details.
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Wireless Bluetooth connectivity & USB-C.
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Ideal for: Daily active users, NFT collectors, and anyone who values seamless design.
Ledger Nano X
The flagship for mobile and diversified portfolios.
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Bluetooth connectivity for managing assets on-the-go via Ledger Live Mobile.
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Larger capacity to run 100+ applications simultaneously.
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Ideal for: Active traders, users exploring multiple blockchains, and those who need mobile flexibility.
Ledger Nano S Plus
The essential, best-value entry point.
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USB-C connectivity with a large screen for secure verification.
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Manages over 5,500 assets with ample storage for essential apps.
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Ideal for: First-time buyers, long-term "HODLers," and anyone prioritizing robust security at a minimal cost.
Compare All Devices
Three Simple Steps to Sovereignty
1. Get Your Ledger & Download Ledger Live
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Purchase only from Ledger.com to guarantee authenticity.
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Ledger Live is your free, all-in-one companion app. Download it from our official website to your desktop or smartphone.
2. Initialize Your Device
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Connect your Ledger via USB/Bluetooth.
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Follow the setup wizard in Ledger Live.
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Set a strong PIN code (local to your device).
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Write down your 24-word Recovery Phrase by hand. This is the most critical security step. Store it like cash.
3. Install Apps & Take Control
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Use Ledger Live to install "apps" for each cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
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Create a receiving address via the app.
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Transfer assets from an exchange to your new Ledger-secured address.
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Explore Ledger Live's built-in services: Buy, Swap, Earn, and more.
Ledger Live: Your Command Center
Ledger Live is the secure gateway to manage your entire crypto universe without compromising your keys.
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Portfolio Tracker: Aggregate all your holdings in one view.
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Buy & Sell: On-ramp fiat to crypto via our trusted partners.
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Earn Rewards: Stake assets directly from the app to grow your holdings.
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Swap Services: Exchange tokens seamlessly.
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NFT Gallery: View and manage your digital collectibles.
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Discover & Learn: Access trusted educational content and app integrations.
Beyond Storage: Enter Web3 Securely
Your Ledger is your universal security key for the decentralized web.
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Connect to DeFi: Safely lend, borrow, and trade on platforms like Uniswap, Aave, or Curve. Approve transactions with a button press.
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Manage NFTs: Interact with marketplaces like OpenSea and Magic Eden, ensuring your digital art remains truly yours.
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Use dApps: From gaming to identity, engage with thousands of decentralized applications across Ethereum, Solana, Polygon, and more. Your keys never leave the device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. I’m new to crypto. Is a Ledger too complex for me?
Not at all. Ledger is designed for all experience levels. Ledger Live guides you step-by-step through setup and management. Start by securing a small amount to get familiar. Our extensive Help Center and community are there to support you.
2. What happens if I lose my Ledger device or it breaks?
Your crypto is safe on the blockchain. Simply acquire a new Ledger (or compatible wallet), select "Restore with Recovery Phrase," and enter your 24-word phrase. Your full portfolio will be accessible again. The device is just a secure access point.
3. Can I manage all my different cryptocurrencies on one Ledger device?
Absolutely. A single Ledger device can secure thousands of different coins and tokens. You install a small application for each blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin app, Ethereum app) via Ledger Live. The device memory allows for multiple apps at once; you can uninstall and reinstall apps freely without affecting your assets.
4. Is it safe to buy a Ledger from Amazon or another reseller?
For absolute security, we strongly recommend purchasing only from Ledger.com. Buying from our official store is the only way to guarantee your device is genuine, untampered, and comes with a full warranty. Third-party resellers carry a risk of tampering or phishing.
5. Do I have to use Ledger Live, or can I use other wallets like MetaMask?
You have choices. While Ledger Live is our optimized, all-in-one solution, your Ledger hardware wallet is compatible with many popular software wallets (like MetaMask, Phantom, Keplr). You connect your Ledger to these apps to sign transactions, keeping your keys secure. This lets you access more advanced dApps and chains.
6. What is Ledger Recover, and do I need it?
Ledger Recover is an optional, paid subscription service for individuals. It provides a backup of your encrypted recovery phrase, using advanced cryptography split among three independent, trusted entities. It's designed for users who want a safety net against losing their phrase. It is entirely optional. You can always rely solely on your own handwritten backup. You remain in control of your security model.
You Are Not Just Buying a Wallet. You Are Investing in Peace of Mind.
With Ledger, you’re choosing the security standard trusted by millions of individuals and hundreds of institutional clients worldwide. You are taking definitive control of your digital future.
Ready to start?
Your journey to digital sovereignty begins now.
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