Ledger.com/Start – Official Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup
Welcome to Ledger.com Start, the verified onboarding process for your Ledger hardware wallet. This guide provides clear, official-style steps for initializing your device, setting a secure PIN, installing Ledger Live, and recording your recovery phrase — the foundation of safe digital asset storage.
1. Understanding Ledger.com Start
The Ledger.com Start procedure ensures your device is authentic, updated, and ready for secure key generation. Ledger hardware wallets isolate private keys within a secure chip, meaning your credentials never leave the device.
2. Unboxing and Authenticity Check
Begin by inspecting your Ledger device’s packaging. Ensure it’s sealed and untampered. Ledger devices are designed with integrity checks to verify authenticity before setup.
3. Connecting Your Ledger Device
Plug the hardware wallet into your computer using the supplied USB cable. The screen will light up with on-device prompts — follow them closely, as your hardware screen always provides the trusted point of reference.
4. Installing Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the companion desktop and mobile application used to manage your device and digital assets. Once installed, open Ledger Live and follow the guided setup assistant to complete device pairing and security verification.
5. Initializing Your Device
Choose “Set up as new device” when prompted. The Ledger secure element generates your private key and recovery phrase internally, fully disconnected from the internet for maximum protection.
6. Recording Your Recovery Phrase
The recovery phrase — a unique list of words — acts as the backup for your hardware wallet. Write each word carefully and store it offline in a secure location. Never save it digitally or share it with anyone. Losing it means losing access to your funds permanently.
7. Creating a Secure PIN
Next, create a PIN on your device. This PIN locks the wallet and prevents unauthorized access. If too many incorrect attempts occur, the wallet will automatically reset to protect your assets.
8. Verifying Firmware
During setup, your Ledger device verifies its firmware version. Official firmware is cryptographically signed by Ledger. Any mismatch will display an alert — stop if you see one and confirm your device’s source.
9. Pairing with Ledger Live
After setup, pair your device with Ledger Live. The app can display balances and manage accounts, but private keys remain safely stored in the hardware wallet’s secure element, never exposed online.
10. Secure Transaction Signing
Every transaction requires confirmation directly on your Ledger screen. Always verify the displayed amount and recipient address before approving. This physical validation step ensures that your transaction details cannot be altered by malware or phishing.
11. Performing Firmware Updates
From time to time, Ledger releases firmware updates for enhanced performance and compatibility. These can be performed through Ledger Live without risk — your private keys remain securely stored during the update.
12. Backing Up and Storing Your Recovery Phrase
Consider storing your recovery phrase on a fireproof and waterproof medium. Many users opt for metal backup plates to protect against environmental damage. Keep your phrase separate from your device for true redundancy.
13. Key Security Practices
- Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
- Only confirm transactions shown on your device’s screen.
- Use the official Ledger Live application for device management.
- Disconnect your hardware wallet when idle.
- Store your recovery phrase securely offline.
14. Troubleshooting Your Ledger
If Ledger Live doesn’t detect your device, reconnect the USB cable directly to your computer. Avoid using USB hubs and restart both your device and application if necessary. Your hardware wallet will maintain its secure state throughout.