Ledger Start — Fast, practical setup & security guide

Welcome to Ledger Start — your first step toward owning and controlling your digital assets with confidence. This page walks you through a fast, human-friendly setup, explains the why behind each step, and equips you with practical tips to keep your keys private and recovery simple. If this is your first hardware wallet, you’ll find the process refreshingly straightforward; if you’re moving from another solution, you’ll discover how Ledger blends portability with rigorous security.

Why a hardware wallet?

Because real ownership requires a private key you control. Mobile apps and exchanges can hold assets for you, but only you — with a hardware wallet — have an isolated, offline environment that prevents remote attackers from stealing your keys. Our approach is pragmatic: combine a strong physical device with clear, repeatable steps so security becomes a habit, not a chore.

What to expect during setup

• Unbox and check authenticity. Inspect sealed packaging — tamper-evidence matters. The device includes a verification step during first boot that confirms firmware integrity.
• Initialize the device. Create a PIN that unlocks the device locally. Pick something memorable but not tied to personal info.
• Write down your recovery phrase. The device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). This is your master key — store it offline and secure.
• Install Ledger Live and pair. Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts. Pairing is one-time and keeps keys offline.
• Add accounts and test. Create accounts and receive a small test transaction first to confirm end-to-end flow.

Practical security habits

Treat your recovery phrase like a physical key. Consider multiple secure copies in separate locations and use fireproof, waterproof storage if possible. Avoid entering the phrase anywhere except on the physical device during restoration. Keep firmware up to date — Ledger Live will notify you. Use passphrase protection for advanced segregation but only after you fully understand how it works. Install only the crypto apps you need on the device to reduce attack surface.

Design decisions that matter

Ledger devices use a secure element and verified firmware to reduce attack surface. Transaction confirmations always happen on-device so malware cannot intercept approvals. That makes physical access the primary risk — which is easier for you to monitor and mitigate.

If something goes wrong

• Lost or damaged device: restore using your recovery phrase on a new device.
• Compromised phrase: move funds immediately to a new wallet with a fresh phrase.
• Scams: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. If asked, stop and verify through official channels.

Many choose hardware custody because it puts cryptographic keys physically in your hand. Owning crypto securely is not a single event; it’s a set of practices you repeat. The goal of Ledger Start is to make those practices simple, transparent, and repeatable.

Ready to begin? Start safely today.

Power on the device, follow prompts, and use this page as a checklist.