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If you’ve just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet, your journey toward secure crypto self-custody begins at Ledger.com/Start®. This official setup page is designed to guide new users step by step through the secure initialization of their device. Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or transitioning from a software wallet, starting correctly is essential to protect your digital assets.
Created by Ledger, one of the world’s leading hardware wallet manufacturers, Ledger devices are built to provide a high level of security by keeping your private keys offline. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect at Ledger.com/Start®, how to set up your wallet safely, and best practices to follow from day one.
When it comes to crypto security, using the correct official setup page is critical. Ledger.com/Start® ensures that:
Cybersecurity threats in the crypto space are real. Fake apps, malicious browser extensions, and phishing domains can compromise your assets. Starting at the official Ledger.com/Start® page ensures you’re accessing legitimate resources directly from the source.
Before you begin the setup process, make sure you have:
Never set up your device in a public space where someone could observe your screen or your recovery phrase.
The first step at Ledger.com/Start® is downloading Ledger Live — the official companion application for managing your crypto assets.
Ledger Live allows you to:
Always ensure you download Ledger Live directly from the official Ledger.com/Start® page. Avoid third-party app stores unless explicitly instructed on the official site.
After downloading:
Once Ledger Live is open, connect your Ledger device using the provided cable.
On your hardware wallet screen, you will be prompted to:
Your PIN code protects your device from unauthorized physical access. Choose:
If someone enters the wrong PIN multiple times, the device will reset automatically — protecting your funds from brute-force attacks.
This is the most important step in the entire process.
Your Ledger device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase (also known as a seed phrase). This phrase:
Anyone with access to your 24 words can access your funds — even without your physical device.
Ledger.com/Start® will never ask you to enter your recovery phrase online.
During setup, Ledger Live will automatically verify that your device is genuine.
This security check confirms:
If the authenticity check fails, do not proceed. Contact official Ledger support immediately through their official channels.
After initialization, you can install specific cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device through Ledger Live.
For example, you can install apps for:
Each cryptocurrency requires its own app installed on the device. The number of apps you can install simultaneously depends on your Ledger model.
Installing apps does not affect your private keys — those remain securely stored inside the device’s secure chip.
After installing an app:
Your Ledger device must physically confirm any transaction. This ensures that even if your computer is compromised, transactions cannot be approved without your device.
Setting up at Ledger.com/Start® is only the beginning. To maintain long-term security:
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates to improve security and add features. Always update via Ledger Live.
Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase. If you receive emails requesting it, delete them immediately.
Always manually type Ledger.com/Start® into your browser. Avoid clicking suspicious links.
Some users store their recovery phrase in fireproof safes or metal backup solutions to protect against physical damage.
Avoid screen sharing or remote desktop sessions while setting up your wallet.
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged:
Your funds are not stored on the device itself — they exist on the blockchain. The device simply holds the keys that grant access.
This is why protecting your recovery phrase is more important than protecting the physical device.
Many new users accidentally compromise their security due to simple errors. Avoid these:
Always purchase directly from official sources.
Compared to software wallets:
Ledger hardware wallets use a secure element chip similar to those found in passports and credit cards, offering advanced protection against physical and digital attacks.
Ledger.com/Start® is your trusted entry point into secure crypto self-custody. By carefully following each step and applying strong security habits, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your digital assets.
Crypto ownership comes with responsibility. Unlike traditional banking systems, there is no password reset option if you lose your recovery phrase. The power of decentralization means you control your funds — but you also control the security.
Taking the time to properly set up your device ensures peace of mind for years to come.
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, or security advice. Always verify that you are using the official Ledger.com/Start® website before downloading software or entering any information. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone under any circumstances.