Ledger.com/start — Starting Up Your Device | Ledger®
Ledger.com/start: Start Up Your Ledger Device
Welcome to Ledger.com/start, the starting point for setting up your Ledger hardware wallet and beginning your journey into secure crypto self-custody. Whether you are using a Ledger device for the first time or preparing a replacement device, the setup process is designed to help you establish your wallet securely before managing your digital assets.
Ledger hardware wallets are designed to keep private keys protected offline while the Ledger Wallet app provides an interface for managing supported crypto assets. Ledger currently describes its wallet app as an all-in-one space for managing digital assets while keeping private keys offline.
What You Need Before Starting
Before you begin, have your Ledger hardware wallet available along with the supplied accessories and a compatible computer or mobile device. You should download the official Ledger Wallet app from Ledger rather than relying on unofficial websites or third-party download links.
The official Ledger Wallet download guide can help you find the appropriate version for your operating system.
After installing the application, connect your Ledger device and follow the instructions displayed in the app and on the hardware wallet screen. The exact screens and options can vary depending on your Ledger device and software version.
Set Up Your Ledger Device
Starting your Ledger device involves several important security steps. If you are configuring a new wallet, the setup process will guide you through creating the device PIN and establishing your recovery information.
Your PIN helps protect the physical device from unauthorized access. Choose a PIN that you can remember but that other people cannot easily guess.
One of the most important parts of setting up a Ledger wallet is the Secret Recovery Phrase. This phrase acts as the backup for your wallet and must be treated as highly sensitive information. Write it down carefully when your Ledger device displays it and keep the backup in a secure location.
Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. A person who obtains it may be able to restore access to your crypto assets. Ledger emphasizes the importance of protecting this information as part of its security model.
Verify Your Device Carefully
During onboarding, Ledger performs security checks designed to help verify the authenticity and integrity of the hardware. Following the instructions shown by the official application and your physical Ledger device is an important part of the setup process.
Do not rely on instructions from unexpected emails, social-media messages, advertisements, or individuals claiming to be Ledger support. If something looks unusual, stop the setup and consult the official Ledger support resources.
You can use the Ledger Support Center for official troubleshooting information, device guidance, and answers to common setup questions.
Install the Apps You Need
After completing the initial setup, you can use the Ledger Wallet app to manage supported assets. Depending on your device and the cryptocurrency you want to manage, you may need to install the appropriate blockchain application.
Ledger supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and tokens, although availability can vary by device, application, region, and software version. Checking Ledger's current supported-assets information before transferring funds can help you confirm compatibility.
Once the necessary application is installed, you can create or add the appropriate account and begin managing your assets through the supported interface.
How Ledger Hardware Wallets Protect Your Assets
A hardware wallet does not store cryptocurrency in the same way a physical container stores cash. Crypto assets remain recorded on their respective blockchains, while the Ledger device helps protect the private keys used to authorize transactions.
This means keeping your Ledger device and recovery information secure is essential. When making transactions, carefully review the information shown on the hardware device before approving anything. Ledger's security approach is designed so sensitive transaction approvals can be confirmed on the device itself.
Important Security Tips
When starting up your Ledger device through Ledger.com/start, keep these practices in mind:
Download Ledger software only from official Ledger sources.
Never disclose your Secret Recovery Phrase.
Never enter your recovery phrase into an unknown website or online form.
Keep your PIN private.
Verify transaction details on your Ledger device before confirming.
Be cautious of websites pretending to offer Ledger support.
Keep your device and recovery backup stored securely.
Remember that legitimate support should not require you to reveal your Secret Recovery Phrase.
Ready to Start?
Setting up a Ledger hardware wallet can be simple when you follow the official process carefully. Ledger.com/start provides the starting point for getting your device ready, while the Ledger Wallet app provides the tools needed to manage your supported crypto assets.
Take your time during setup, carefully read every instruction shown on your device, and protect your recovery information from the beginning. Once your Ledger wallet is configured securely, you can explore supported cryptocurrencies, accounts, and services while maintaining control of your private keys.
For the latest instructions, software availability, and security information, always rely on Ledger's official website and support documentation rather than unofficial “Ledger setup” or “Ledger login” pages.