Get Started with Your Ledger Setup

If you’re looking to protect your crypto assets—whether that’s Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other tokens—the setup of a hardware wallet is one of the best steps you can take. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to complete the setup via Ledger.com/start, explain why cold storage (offline crypto storage) matters, and cover key best-practices for secure self-custody.

Why choose cold storage for crypto?

Cold storage—also referred to as “offline storage”—means storing the private keys that control your crypto without an active internet connection. This significantly reduces risk, because most attacks on crypto assets stem from internet-connected devices. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

A dedicated hardware wallet such as those from Ledger acts as your offline vault: the private keys never leave the device, and signatures for transactions are executed securely on-device. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

For example: when you want to send Bitcoin or Ethereum, you initiate the transaction on your computer or phone, then physically confirm it on the hardware wallet which holds the key offline. This way, hackers cannot intercept your key via internet-connected devices. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

How to set up via Ledger.com/start

Here’s a step-by-step approach to safely set up your Ledger device and begin protecting your crypto:

1. Download the official software: Visit Ledger.com/start and download the companion app (often called Ledger Live). Ensure you verify the download on the official site. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
2. Connect your hardware wallet: Follow the device’s instructions (e.g., plug in via USB or Bluetooth depending on model). Choose “Set up as new device.” :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
3. Set a PIN code: Choose a strong PIN (4–8 digits or more) to unlock the device. This protects you if someone physically accesses your hardware wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
4. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase (Secret Recovery Phrase): The device will show you a sequence of words. Write them down in order on the supplied recovery sheet (or offline notebook) and keep it very safe. This is the only backup of your wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
5. Verify and finalise setup: Many devices will ask you to verify a few of the words you wrote down. Then install any firmware/app updates if prompted. Your device will let you know when it’s ready. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
6. Add crypto accounts: In the Ledger Live app add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum (and other supported chains). You can then receive funds to those accounts via the device. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Protecting Bitcoin & Ethereum with best-in-class hardware wallet security

Using a hardware wallet from Ledger gives you multiple layers of protection:

• Secure Element chip: Your private keys are stored in a chip designed to resist tampering and extraction. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Secure screen: The device screen is directly driven by the secure chip, which means you verify transaction details on the device rather than trusting your internet-connected device. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Isolation from internet threats: Because the private keys never leave the device and never directly connect to the internet, you reduce exposure to malware, phishing, remote hijacks. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Self-custody and control: You hold your recovery phrase and keys. No third-party has access. This means you are fully responsible — and fully in control. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Best practices and tips

To maximize security when using cold storage / hardware wallet, keep in mind:

• Always purchase your hardware wallet directly from the official manufacturer or authorized reseller — avoid second-hand or used devices.
• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Don’t store it in a screenshot, password manager, or online cloud service.
• Keep the recovery phrase in a secure, offline location (e.g., safe deposit box, fire-proof safe). Consider multiple backups in different physical locations.
• When you connect your hardware wallet to a computer or phone, ensure the host device is free of malware and you’re using the official app (e.g., Ledger Live via the official site). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Consider segregating your assets: use one account on your device for everyday crypto, and another account (or separate device) as long-term cold storage for Bitcoin/Ethereum. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Keep your firmware and companion application updated to benefit from latest security patches.

Summary

If you’re serious about protecting your crypto, setting up a hardware wallet via Ledger.com/start is a wise move. Cold storage—offline crypto storage—gives you far greater defense against hacking, malware, phishing and other online threats. With the right setup and responsible practices, you can confidently hold Bitcoin, Ethereum and other assets with full self-custody and control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly does “cold storage” mean for crypto?

Cold storage refers to the practice of keeping your private keys offline, away from internet-connected devices. This significantly reduces exposure to remote attacks like malware, phishing or hacking. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

2. Is setting up a hardware wallet complicated?

Not really. By following the steps at Ledger.com/start—downloading the official app, installing the device, choosing a PIN, writing down the recovery phrase—you can be setup in minutes. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

3. Can I store both Bitcoin and Ethereum on one device?

Yes. Many hardware wallets, including those from Ledger, support multiple cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many others) via the companion app. You can manage all of them while the private keys remain offline. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

4. What happens if I lose my hardware wallet device?

If you have safely backed up your 24-word recovery phrase during setup, you can recover your wallet (and all assets) on a new compatible device or supported wallet. This is why that phrase is critical. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

5. Is this storage method totally safe from all threats?

While cold storage/hardware wallets significantly reduce risk compared to online (“hot”) wallets, they’re not entirely immune. Physical theft, loss of recovery phrase, or unsafe computer/phone interactions can still lead to problems. But broadly speaking, this is one of the strongest security options available. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

6. Do I still need a “hot wallet” if I have a hardware wallet?

Many users keep a small amount of crypto in a hot wallet for daily use (trading, staking, apps) and the bulk in cold storage for long-term holdings. A hardware wallet doesn’t eliminate hot wallets entirely—it just makes the main holdings far more secure. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}