Ledger.com/Start — Official Setup Guide

Formal instructions and security guidance for preparing and using Ledger hardware wallets and Ledger Live.

Overview

Ledger.com/Start is commonly referenced as the starting point for resources related to Ledger hardware wallets and the Ledger Live companion application. This document provides a formal, security-first walkthrough of the recommended preparatory steps, installation procedure, and ongoing best practices. It is an informational resource only and is not an official Ledger page; always confirm official instructions at ledger.com.

Prerequisites

  • Obtain your Ledger hardware device directly from an authorized distributor or the official Ledger store at ledger.com.
  • Prepare a secure personal computer (desktop or laptop). Avoid using public or shared machines for initial setup.
  • Have the included physical recovery card (or similar secure medium) and a permanent pen ready to record your recovery phrase.
  • Allocate uninterrupted time and a quiet environment for completing the device initialization process.

Step-by-Step Setup Procedure

  1. Verify the domain: Manually enter ledger.com into your browser address bar. Do not follow links from unsolicited emails or messages.
  2. Download Ledger Live: From ledger.com, download Ledger Live for your operating system. Prefer official downloads only; confirm checksums if published.
  3. Install and open Ledger Live: Follow the on-screen instructions. When prompted, connect your Ledger device to the computer using the supplied cable.
  4. Initialize the device: On the device, choose to set up as a new device (or restore from an existing recovery only if you possess a previously created recovery phrase). Create a PIN directly on the device. Record the recovery phrase on the physical card provided—do not photograph or store it digitally.
  5. Confirm device prompts: All sensitive confirmations (addresses, amounts, firmware updates) must be verified on the Ledger device display. Do not approve transactions solely via the computer screen.
  6. Install required apps in Ledger Live: Use Ledger Live to install blockchain-specific apps to the device as needed. Only install apps from the Ledger Live interface.

Security Best Practices

  • Never disclose your recovery phrase to anyone. Ledger will never request your recovery phrase, PIN or private keys by email or support chat.
  • Store your recovery phrase offline in a secure, fire-resistant location. Consider using tamper-resistant storage solutions for long-term holdings.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date using official Ledger mechanisms. Verify update prompts on the device before accepting.
  • Be vigilant for phishing attempts: confirm sender identities, verify web addresses, and avoid downloading software from third-party sources.
  • When in doubt, consult official Ledger support pages on ledger.com or contact Ledger support through the channels listed on their official site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does Ledger require creating an online account to use the device?
A: No. Ledger hardware wallets are controlled via the device and through Ledger Live; creating an online account is not a substitute for device security. Accounts offered by third parties are separate services and should be evaluated independently.

Q: If I lose my device, can I recover funds?

A: Yes, provided you have securely stored your recovery phrase. Use a compatible device and the recovery phrase to restore access. If the recovery phrase is lost or exposed, funds may be irretrievable or at risk.

Q: Is it safe to enter the recovery phrase into Ledger Live?

A: No. You should never enter your recovery phrase into any software or website. Recovery operations are designed to be completed directly on a hardware device during initialization or restore procedures.

Additional Resources

For device-specific instructions and official downloads, consult the Ledger Help Center and product pages at ledger.com. Ledger's official documentation contains detailed articles on firmware updates, application management, and advanced security topics.

Safety & Legal Disclaimer

This document is an informational guide about Ledger.com/Start and general Ledger setup procedures. It is not an official Ledger website or support channel. This page does not collect credentials, nor does it request or transmit recovery phrases, private keys, or PINs.

Important: Ledger and legitimate wallet providers will never ask you to disclose your recovery phrase, private keys, or PIN via email, chat, or a web form. If you receive any request for such information, treat it as a phishing attempt and report it immediately to the official Ledger support channels listed on ledger.com.

The author of this page assumes no liability for losses arising from the use of this guide. Users are solely responsible for verifying instructions against official Ledger documentation and for maintaining secure custody of their recovery materials.