Ledger.com/Start – Official Hardware Wallet Setup Guide

Welcome to Ledger.com Start, the official setup process for your Ledger hardware wallet. This comprehensive onboarding guide walks you through initialization, PIN creation, firmware verification, and backup of your recovery phrase — the essential steps to secure your digital assets.

1. Overview of Ledger.com Start

The Ledger.com Start process establishes your hardware wallet in a secure, verified state. It ensures your device runs official firmware and that your private keys are generated offline. Following this procedure guarantees full control and independent ownership of your digital assets.

2. Verify Your Device Packaging

Before setup, confirm that your Ledger device packaging is sealed and untampered. Authentic devices are packaged with clear security measures. If you notice broken seals or unusual signs of prior access, do not proceed until you confirm authenticity.

3. Connect the Ledger Device

Use the supplied USB cable to connect your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer. The device display will power on automatically and guide you through its first steps. Always verify instructions directly on your device’s screen — it represents your secure confirmation channel.

4. Install and Open Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion application for managing your hardware wallet. Once installed, open Ledger Live to begin the setup assistant. The app helps you initialize the device, check firmware, and safely create your recovery phrase.

5. Initialize Your Hardware Wallet

When prompted, choose “Set up as a new device.” Your Ledger wallet generates a unique private key and recovery phrase inside its secure element chip. This data never leaves your device, ensuring complete isolation from external systems.

6. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

During initialization, your Ledger device displays a series of words — your recovery phrase. Write these words in exact order on the provided recovery sheet. Keep your recovery phrase offline and private; it is your only method to restore access to your funds if the device is lost or replaced.

7. Set Up a PIN Code

Create a secure PIN directly on your hardware wallet. The PIN protects against unauthorized access and must be entered each time the device is connected. If too many incorrect PIN attempts occur, the device will automatically reset for your protection.

8. Verify Firmware Integrity

Your Ledger device verifies its firmware at every startup. Official firmware is signed by Ledger to guarantee authenticity. If the device shows a warning about invalid firmware, do not continue — this ensures your hardware remains uncompromised.

9. Pairing with Ledger Live

After setting up your PIN and recovery phrase, use Ledger Live to synchronize your device. The application reads only public data (account balances and addresses), while all private keys remain securely stored on the device itself.

10. How Ledger Protects Your Private Keys

Ledger hardware wallets use a secure element chip to isolate and protect private keys from external access. All transaction signing occurs within the device. Even if your computer is compromised, your private data remains secure.

11. Sending and Receiving Crypto Securely

When sending or receiving assets, always confirm details on your Ledger screen. The display will show the destination address and amount. Approve transactions only when both match your intended action — this step ensures full security against phishing attempts.

12. Performing Firmware Updates

Occasionally, Ledger releases firmware updates that enhance performance and add support for new assets. These updates can be safely installed through Ledger Live. Your private keys remain protected within the secure element throughout the process.

13. Storing Your Recovery Phrase

Treat your recovery phrase as the most critical backup for your crypto assets. Store it offline in a secure, fire-resistant location. Many users choose to engrave or etch the recovery words on a metal backup plate for long-term durability.

14. Recommended Security Practices

Never share your recovery phrase, PIN, or passphrase with anyone.
Verify all addresses directly on your Ledger device before confirming.
Use only the official Ledger Live software for managing your wallet.
Keep your hardware wallet disconnected when not in use.
Store your recovery phrase offline and away from digital devices.

15. Troubleshooting and Maintenance

If your Ledger device isn’t detected, reconnect it directly to a USB port (avoid hubs). Restart your computer and the device if needed. If unusual messages appear on-screen, disconnect and restart to ensure full security.

Note: Your recovery phrase and PIN are the only methods to restore access to your wallet. Keep them secure, offline, and protected from environmental or digital risks.