Introduction
Ledger.com/Start® is your official guide for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet safely. Hardware wallets store your cryptocurrency private keys securely, and Ledger devices use a tamper-resistant secure element. Following this guide ensures that your setup, recovery, and day-to-day use remain secure and compliant with best practices.
Unboxing and Inspection
When receiving your Ledger device, inspect the packaging carefully. Ensure tamper-evident seals are intact. Ledger devices ship sealed, and any signs of tampering should prompt you to contact Ledger support immediately.
Ledger Live Installation
Ledger Live is the official companion application. Download it from Ledger.com to manage accounts, update firmware, send/receive cryptocurrencies, and view your portfolio. Verify all prompts on your Ledger device during connection to prevent malicious interference.
Device Initialization: PIN & Recovery Phrase
During setup, create a secure PIN and write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly as displayed. This phrase is your ultimate backup; store it offline in a secure location and never digitally. A passphrase can be added optionally for a hidden wallet.
Best Practices for Security
- Verify all addresses on the Ledger device before transactions.
- Store backups offline; never online or in cloud storage.
- Use strong PINs and avoid predictable sequences.
- Update firmware only via Ledger Live.
Adding Accounts & Managing Crypto
Ledger Live supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies. Add accounts corresponding to assets you own. Always confirm the receiving addresses on-device. Ledger Live also offers portfolio monitoring, transaction history, and market data integration.
Firmware Updates & Device Security
Firmware updates improve security and functionality. Ledger Live verifies all firmware signatures. Never install unofficial or third-party firmware.
Backup Verification
Testing recovery on a separate device ensures your recovery phrase is accurate. This prevents loss in case of device failure or loss. Perform small test transactions to verify functionality.
Day-to-Day Security
- Confirm transactions on-device.
- Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated.
- Beware phishing attempts.
- Never share your PIN or recovery phrase.
Troubleshooting
If the device is not recognized, try a different USB cable or port. Consult the official support articles for OS-specific troubleshooting. Always follow Ledger’s official guidance.
Advanced & Enterprise Usage
For developers and institutions, Ledger provides SDKs and multi-signature support. On-device confirmation remains mandatory for all signing operations. Enterprises should maintain policies for backup, recovery, and role separation.
Final Checklist
- Device inspected and verified on-screen.
- Ledger Live installed from official source.
- PIN set, recovery phrase secured offline.
- Firmware up to date.
- Test transactions completed successfully.
Conclusion
Ledger.com/Start® ensures your first interaction with a Ledger wallet is safe and secure. Following the official instructions protects your funds and gives you confidence in your cryptocurrency management.