Your device and a quiet moment
Unbox the wallet yourself and check it against what you ordered. Find a private place where you can read the screen without being rushed.
THE SELF-CUSTODY STARTER GUIDE
Ledger.com/start: a calmer way to begin
A new hardware wallet can feel unfamiliar. This plain-language walkthrough explains what to prepare, how setup usually works, and how to protect the information that matters most.
Explore the setup steps A practical 5-minute read
Independent educational guide · Not the official Ledger website
YOUR DEVICE. YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
Start with the sourceVerify every setup instruction
01 — GETTING STARTEDREAD FIRST. VERIFY ALWAYS.
01THE SHORT VERSION
Looking up Ledger.com/start? Begin with the official source.
People often search for Ledger.com/start when they have just received a Ledger hardware wallet and want to connect it safely, install the right companion software, or understand what to do with the recovery words shown during setup. It is a sensible place to pause and check before acting.
This is an independent primer, not a Ledger service or support channel. Menus and setup screens can change, so use this guide for context and confirm current instructions on Ledger’s official website. Be cautious with sponsored results and unsolicited messages, even when they use familiar branding.
One rule above all: nobody helping with setup needs your recovery phrase—not Ledger support, a friend, or this guide.
BEFORE YOU CONNECT
Before you begin
A few small checks can make setup more comfortable—and reduce the chance of following a fake prompt.
A trusted computer or phone
Use a device you control with current security updates. Avoid public computers, shared accounts, and unknown USB accessories.
Paper for recovery details
Have a pen and a durable offline backup ready. The device may display recovery words once, so be ready to record them privately and exactly.
YOUR FIRST SESSION
Getting started with Ledger.com/start: a step-by-step guide
Screens vary by model and software version. Use this as an overview, then follow your device and current official instructions.
Find Ledger’s official software information- 01
Confirm the source and inspect your device
Open Ledger’s official site directly and compare the device with current maker guidance. Avoid random QR codes or download mirrors. If something seems off, stop and contact verified support.
- 02
Install or open the official companion app
Download from Ledger’s official site or verified app-store listing. Check the publisher before installing, avoid pop-ups and direct messages, and update through the app’s legitimate process.
- 03
Initialize the wallet on its own screen
Choose new-device setup on the wallet itself and follow its prompts to set a PIN. The PIN protects the physical device; it is not your recovery phrase.
- 04
Write down and verify your recovery phrase
Record the recovery words in order and complete the device’s verification. Never photograph, type, email, or save them to cloud storage. Keep the offline backup private and safe from loss or damage.
- 05
Add accounts and learn before moving value
Use the official app to add the accounts you need. Check addresses and network details on the device screen before approval, and learn the interface before considering a transfer.
YOUR MOST SENSITIVE BACKUP
Protect your recovery information
Recovery words can restore access to a wallet. Anyone who gets them may be able to control the associated assets, so treat them like a master key—not a support code.
DO
- Write the words down privately and in the correct order.
- Keep the backup offline, secure, and accessible to you.
- Check every word against the device’s own verification prompts.
NEVER
- Share the phrase with anyone, including “support.”
- Enter it into a website, chat, app, or computer.
- Send a photo or store it in email, notes, or cloud drives.
Ledger support should not ask you to reveal your recovery phrase. If a person or website does, stop interacting and verify through an official channel.
ONCE YOU’RE READY
After setup
Keep the app, operating system, and firmware current through verified update prompts. Check transaction details on the wallet’s own screen, and be wary of urgency, remote access requests, or links promising to “validate” your wallet.
Verify changes against current official documentation. If instructions conflict with your device or ask for recovery words, stop. Knowing when to pause is part of good security.
QUICK ANSWERS
Common questions
Good questions are part of a careful setup. Here are a few useful basics.
Is this the official Ledger.com/start page?
No. This independent resource is not operated by Ledger. Verify current setup steps, downloads, and support directly on Ledger’s official website.
What should I never share with another person?
Never share your recovery phrase or enter it online. Keep PINs private too. Legitimate helpers do not need recovery words to troubleshoot setup.
How can I tell whether setup information is genuine?
Type the official address yourself, inspect the domain, and confirm app publishers in a trusted store. Cross-check unusual instructions before downloading or approving anything.
Do all Ledger devices use the same instructions?
No. Models and software versions differ, so follow current instructions for your specific device.
A THOUGHTFUL FIRST STEP
Take your time. Verify before you act.
Preparing a device, installing trusted software, and safeguarding recovery information are the foundations of a sensible start. Use independent explainers to understand the process—but let current, official instructions guide each action.
Continue to Ledger’s official website