Welcome to Ledger Start
“Ledger Start” is designed to help newcomers set up a Ledger® hardware wallet with clarity and confidence. The goal: move from custodial convenience to personal custody with minimal risk. This guide covers buying an authentic device, initializing it safely, protecting your recovery phrase, and building daily habits that protect your funds.
Buy authentic, avoid tampered devices
Purchase directly from Ledger’s official store or authorized resellers. Fraudulent or tampered devices—especially used ones—are common attack vectors. On arrival, inspect packaging and ensure there’s no evidence of prior initialization. If in doubt, contact official Ledger support or return the device.
Initialization and PIN selection
Power up your Ledger® and follow the on-device prompts. Choose a PIN you can remember but that others can’t guess. The PIN protects local access to the device; it is not a substitute for the recovery phrase. If you forget the PIN, the recovery phrase is how you regain access—so back it up carefully.
The recovery phrase: write it, protect it
Ledger devices generate a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words) during setup. Write the words on the supplied card—do not photograph, type, or store the phrase digitally. Store the written copy in secure locations: a home safe, bank deposit box, or with a trusted legal custodian. For extra resilience, consider a metal backup plate designed for seed phrases to withstand fire and water damage.
Setting up Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live from ledger.com and install on your trusted computer or smartphone. Use Ledger Live to add blockchain accounts, install coin apps, and monitor balances. The device will sign transactions offline; Ledger Live is the interface but the security-critical operations happen on-device.
Verifying transactions
Always confirm the recipient address and amount on your Ledger® screen before approving a transaction. Malware can alter addresses displayed on your computer; the on-device confirmation ensures the exact data you approved is what will be signed.
Passphrase considerations
Advanced users might enable a passphrase (BIP39 passphrase) to create hidden accounts. While powerful, passphrases add complexity: losing the passphrase can make funds inaccessible. If you use one, treat it as securely as the seed phrase and document recovery procedures in a secure plan.
Test transfers and routine checks
When moving funds, perform a small test transfer first. Monitor firmware updates and apply them via Ledger Live when released. Subscribe to official security channels for advisories, and periodically rehearse recovery if you manage substantial funds to ensure backups are usable.
Summary
Ledger Start means beginning your self-custody journey with prudence. By verifying devices, securing your recovery phrase, verifying transactions on-device, and maintaining disciplined habits, you’ll reduce risk and gain control over your crypto. Use official Ledger® resources when in doubt.
Read official resources