Start your Ledger device safely — step by step
Welcome to Ledger.com/Start — your friendly, secure onboarding guide to starting up a Ledger hardware wallet. This page walks you through the official process for Ledger device setup, from unboxing to your first transaction. Follow these instructions closely to ensure a safe setup: protect your recovery phrase, download official software, and verify every step on the device screen. Ledger devices are built to give you self‑custody of your crypto while offering strong hardware-backed security.
When you receive your Ledger device, check the packaging seal and authenticity stickers. Only use devices purchased directly from authorized retailers or Ledger's official store. Ledger.com/Start emphasizes buying genuine Ledger hardware to avoid tampered devices.
Power the device and follow the on‑screen prompts. Choose to configure as a new device (create a new wallet) or restore from an existing recovery phrase if you already have one. Ledger.com/Start recommends creating a new wallet for first‑time users.
Set a secure PIN on the Ledger device. The PIN protects access to the device and is required for any operation. Memorize the PIN; do not store it together with your recovery phrase.
Your 24‑word recovery phrase is the single most important secret. Write it on the recovery card provided, keep it offline, and never share it with anyone. Ledger.com/Start stresses: never enter your recovery phrase into a website or app — Ledger will never ask for it via email or chat.
Go to the official Ledger Live app (desktop or mobile) to complete device pairing. Download only from the official source; verify checksums where provided. Ledger Live is the application that lets you add accounts, manage assets, and update firmware.
Connect the device to Ledger Live via USB or Bluetooth (for supported models). Follow the app to add accounts — choose the coins you want to manage. Ledger Live will synchronize balances and past activity while the device stays the secure signing element.
Every send, swap, or stake operation started in Ledger Live requires a confirmation on the Ledger device. Verify recipient addresses, amounts, and fees on the device screen before approving. This ensures a secure boundary between your desktop and the private key stored on the device.
Tips for a secure start
- Only download Ledger Live from Ledger's official domain; avoid third‑party links.
- Store your recovery phrase in a safe, offline place — consider a fireproof safe and multiple copies in separate locations.
- Never disclose your recovery phrase or PIN to anyone, and never type it into a website or email.
- Enable firmware updates in Ledger Live and verify firmware authenticity before installing.
- For extra security, use a passphrase (advanced feature) in addition to your recovery phrase — but treat it like a secret password.
Common questions
Q: What if my device is lost or damaged?
A: Use your recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible recovery tool. Your funds are tied to the recovery phrase, not the physical device.
Q: Will Ledger ever ask for my recovery phrase?
A: No. Ledger staff, partners, and official channels will never ask for your recovery phrase. Any request is a scam.
Q: Can I manage multiple accounts?
A: Yes. Ledger Live supports multiple accounts and multiple cryptocurrencies; you can separate accounts for different strategies.
This guide is tailored for Ledger.com/Start users and includes essential keywords such as "Ledger Start", "Starting Up Your Device", "Ledger device setup", "hardware wallet", and "recovery phrase" to help indexing in search engines like Microsoft Bing while remaining genuinely useful.