Welcome — your first steps toward secure self-custody
Welcome to Ledger.com/Start — a practical, user-focused walkthrough for getting your Ledger hardware wallet up and running securely. This guide is designed for first-time users and experienced custodians alike: it covers unboxing inspection, Ledger Live installation, device initialization (PIN & recovery phrase), firmware management, everyday security habits, troubleshooting, and developer notes for integrations. Follow the steps carefully — the choices you make during setup determine how protected your keys will be in the long run.
Why use a hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets store private keys in a dedicated, tamper-resistant environment (a secure element) and require physical confirmation on the device for sensitive operations. This reduces exposure to malware and phishing attacks that target software wallets. With a hardware device you keep custody of your keys instead of handing them to a third-party service — that brings responsibility, but also unmatched control.
Unboxing and inspection
Before connecting your device, inspect the package for tamper-evident seals and any unexpected alterations. Ledger devices ship sealed; if the packaging looks compromised, stop and contact Ledger Support rather than proceeding. Keep the box and printed materials through the setup process until you’re confident all steps completed successfully.
Install Ledger Live — the official companion app
Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger site and install the version that matches your OS (desktop or mobile). Ledger Live walks you through the first-run flow, device initialization, adding accounts, and firmware updates. Official downloads and app stores are the only trusted sources; do not download Ledger Live from third-party websites.
Connect your device & verify the screen
Connect the Ledger device using the supplied cable directly to your computer or phone (avoid hubs for initial setup). The device screen is the authoritative source of information — always verify prompts, model identifiers, and firmware update messages on the device itself before approving actions in Ledger Live.
Create a secure PIN
During setup you’ll be prompted to set a numeric PIN to protect the device. Choose a PIN that is both memorable and not easily guessable. Ledger devices implement anti-brute-force protections to slow down repeated incorrect attempts, but a strong PIN remains an important layer of defense. Never store your PIN with your recovery phrase.
Write down and protect your recovery phrase
The recovery phrase (typically 24 words) is the ultimate backup for your wallet. It is generated and shown on the device; record the words exactly in order and store the written backup offline. Never photograph or type your recovery phrase into a computer or cloud service. Consider using resilient backup media (metal seed plates) and store copies in separate secure locations.
Backup best practices
- Write the seed clearly in order and double-check spelling.
- Store at least two secure, geographically separated copies.
- Use durable backups (metal) for long-term resilience against fire or water damage.
- Do not share the seed with anyone — it is the key to your funds.
Optional passphrase — strong security, strong caution
Ledger supports an optional passphrase that acts as a 25th word to create a hidden wallet. This adds secrecy but also complexity: if you lose the passphrase, the funds associated with that hidden wallet cannot be recovered. Only enable a passphrase if you fully understand and can safely store that secret.
Adding accounts and receiving funds
After initialization, add supported accounts to Ledger Live for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Ledger maintains a list of supported assets and derivation rules; consult official documentation if you need non-standard derivation paths. When receiving funds, always confirm the receiving address on the Ledger device screen — the host app may be compromised, but the device display is the single source of truth.
Firmware updates — trust but verify
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that patch vulnerabilities and improve features. Ledger Live distributes official firmware and the device verifies cryptographic signatures before installation. Always apply firmware updates through Ledger Live (or other official channels) and read release notes prior to updating. Avoid unofficial firmware or modified builds unless you are an advanced user who can independently verify integrity.
Testing recovery — don't skip this
Before moving large amounts, perform a test restore on a spare device — this proves your recovery backup is accurate. Testing backups in a controlled environment prevents the nightmare scenario of discovering a corrupted or incomplete backup after a device loss. Use small test amounts for practical validation.
Daily security habits
- Always verify transaction details on-device before approving.
- Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated via official channels.
- Store seed backups offline; avoid digital storage of secrets.
- Be suspicious of unsolicited messages, links, or support requests asking for seeds or PINs.
Troubleshooting common issues
If Ledger Live doesn't detect your device, try another cable or port, and ensure Ledger Live is updated. Avoid USB hubs for initial setup. If unexpected prompts appear on the device screen, disconnect and consult official support before proceeding. For OS-specific driver issues, follow the troubleshooting articles on Ledger’s support pages.
Lost PIN or device reset
If you forget your PIN, you can factory-reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase. Without that recovery phrase, access to funds will be lost. For institutions, consider multi-signature setups or HSMs to avoid single-person dependency.
Developer & integration notes
Developers should require on-device confirmation for every signing operation and minimize the sensitive information shown in host UI. Use official SDKs and follow best practices for derivation paths and transaction building. For automated signing, evaluate whether a dedicated HSM or multi-sig architecture better meets your threat model.
Enterprise considerations
Organizations should adopt documented custody policies, multi-signature and role separation, secure storage for backups, and regular drills for recovery. Maintain a chain-of-custody record for backups and rotate responsibilities to reduce single points of failure.
Final checklist before funding
- Package inspected and device verified on-screen.
- Ledger Live downloaded from the official site and verified.
- PIN set and tested; recovery phrase written and stored offline.
- Test restore performed; small test transaction completed.
- Firmware applied via Ledger Live if prompted.
Closing — ownership & responsibility
A Ledger hardware wallet gives you control of your private keys and with that control comes responsibility. Treat your recovery phrase as the most important secret you own. Keep software updated, use official sources, and practice safe operational habits. If in doubt, consult Ledger’s official support channels for guidance. With prudent setup and good routines, a hardware wallet is the strongest practical tool for long-term crypto custody.