Ledger.com/Start - Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

Introduction

Hardware wallets like Ledger isolate your private keys on a secure element that never exposes them to the internet. That model gives you strong protection against many common online attacks, but the device is only one part of the security story. Safe initialization, careful recovery backup practices, and routine operational security (OpSec) are essential to protect your crypto assets.

Read through every step before beginning. Avoid shortcuts (especially digitizing your recovery phrase), and only use official resources at ledger.com/start for downloads and firmware.

Step-by-step setup

• 1

  Unbox & inspect the device

  Open the packaging in a private, well-lit area. Check tamper seals and packaging for signs of damage or tampering. If you see anything suspicious, stop and contact the seller or Ledger support before proceeding.

• 2

  Open the official start page

  Type ledger.com/start manually into your browser — do not follow links from emails, social media, or chat messages. The official start page provides the Ledger Live installer and step-by-step onboarding tools.

• 3

  Connect and install updates

  Use the supplied cable to connect your Ledger to your computer. If prompted to update firmware, only accept updates shown by the official start workflow. Firmware updates often contain important security improvements.

• 4

  Set a secure PIN

  Choose a PIN that is memorable to you but hard for others to guess. The PIN protects the device from local access if lost or stolen. Do not store the PIN in plaintext on your phone or computer.

• 5

  Write down your recovery phrase

  Your recovery phrase (usually 24 words) is the only way to restore your funds if your device is lost or damaged. Write the words in order on the provided recovery card or a secure metal backup. Never photograph, copy to cloud storage, or enter these words on any website.

• 6

  Consider an optional passphrase

  An optional passphrase adds an extra secret to your recovery phrase and creates a hidden wallet. It increases security but also increases complexity: if you forget the passphrase, the funds in that hidden wallet cannot be recovered. Use only if you understand the tradeoffs.

• 7

  Install Ledger Live and add accounts

  Download Ledger Live from the official page. Use Ledger Live to manage accounts, install app packages on the device for each blockchain, and monitor your balances. Ledger Live provides signed transactions from your device — the device confirms every critical action on its own screen.

• 8

  Verify receiving addresses and send a test

  When receiving funds, always verify the address shown in Ledger Live with the address display on your device. Before sending large amounts, perform a small test transaction to confirm everything functions as expected.

Security best practices

Your long-term security depends on a combination of secure device setup and responsible operational practices. Use reputable hardware and firmware channels, avoid public or untrusted computers during sensitive operations, and keep browser extensions to a minimum. Periodically check for official firmware and Ledger Live updates and apply them through the official flow.

Backup & storage tips

Paper backups are inexpensive but vulnerable to loss, fire, and water. Consider a metal backup for large holdings. Store copies in geographically separate, secure locations (for example, a home safe and a bank deposit box). Test legibility and corrosion resistance if you choose a metal plate solution.

Operational security

Avoid entering your recovery phrase on any internet-connected device. If you need to transact from a new environment, consider creating a dedicated, freshly-initialized device. If you suspect compromise, immediately move funds to a new wallet initialized with a new recovery phrase.

FAQ & Troubleshooting