Welcome to Ledger Start — your trusted companion for setting up, securing, and mastering your Ledger hardware wallet. Whether you’re completely new to cryptocurrency or upgrading your security practices, this guide will walk you through every step to ensure your digital assets remain safe, accessible, and entirely under your control.
The first and most important thing to understand about using a Ledger device is that you are your own bank. With this power comes the responsibility of protecting your private keys — the cryptographic secrets that allow access to your funds. Unlike traditional banking systems, there is no password recovery, central support, or “forgot PIN” option when it comes to blockchain security. This guide has been carefully created to help you avoid common pitfalls and to help you configure your Ledger wallet in the safest way possible.
Before you begin, ensure that your Ledger device was purchased directly from the official Ledger website or an authorized reseller. Never buy second-hand or pre-initialized devices. Every Ledger must be brand new and sealed — if the packaging looks tampered with or the box is not sealed properly, contact Ledger support before proceeding. Counterfeit or manipulated devices pose serious security risks, as they could already be compromised.
Once you’ve confirmed the authenticity of your device, it’s time to begin the setup process. Plug in your Ledger device, follow the on-screen instructions, and make sure you only use the official Ledger Live application, which you can download directly from the Ledger website. Never download Ledger Live from third-party sites or app stores that are not verified. Phishing sites are one of the most common ways attackers attempt to steal recovery phrases or trick users into installing fake software.
During setup, you’ll be prompted to create a secure PIN code. This is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess, avoid simple patterns like “1234” or “0000,” and never share it with anyone. If someone gains access to your PIN, they can interact with your device directly, so treat it as confidential information.
The next and most critical step is recording your 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your wallet — if your Ledger is lost, stolen, or damaged, your funds can be restored only with this recovery phrase. Write it down carefully on the provided recovery sheets, store it offline, and never type it into any website, computer, or mobile device. Many users prefer to store their recovery phrase in multiple secure locations, such as a safe or a metal backup plate, to protect against fire or water damage.
After completing the initial setup, Ledger Live will guide you to install the necessary apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to manage. Each crypto asset — such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana — requires its own app within Ledger Live. Once installed, you can create accounts, receive funds, and verify transactions directly on your device’s secure screen. Always double-check transaction details on the physical Ledger screen before confirming — this ensures you’re not being tricked by malware or fake interfaces.
Security doesn’t end after setup. Always keep your device firmware up to date, ensure your computer is free of viruses, and stay alert for phishing emails or messages pretending to be from Ledger. Remember, Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase — not via email, text, or website. Bookmark the official Ledger site and always verify URLs before entering sensitive information.
By completing this setup guide carefully and following these principles, you’re building a foundation of digital self-sovereignty and security. The crypto world rewards users who take responsibility for their own assets, and with Ledger Start, you have the knowledge and tools to do exactly that. Proceed below to begin your secure setup journey — your crypto safety starts here.
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