Ledger.com/start | Getting Started With Secure Device Setup

Setting up a Ledger device is an important first step toward managing cryptocurrency through self-custody. If you are using a new Ledger signer, the safest approach is to follow the official setup instructions and carefully verify every step. The Ledger.com/start page is a useful starting point for accessing Ledger's official setup resources.

Start at Ledger.com/start

Begin your setup by visiting Ledger.com/start through a browser you trust. Avoid clicking unexpected links in emails, social media messages, or advertisements that claim to provide Ledger activation or support.

Follow the instructions for your specific Ledger device. Ledger's current ecosystem uses the Ledger Wallet app alongside its hardware devices, allowing users to manage supported accounts and interact with their crypto assets. Official Ledger resources can also provide guidance if you need help connecting your device or completing setup.

Create Your Device PIN

During the initial setup, your Ledger device will ask you to establish a PIN. This PIN helps protect the physical device from unauthorized use.

Choose a PIN that is difficult for another person to guess, and keep it private. Never give your PIN to another person claiming to be Ledger support. If someone asks for your PIN or recovery phrase through an unexpected message, treat the request as suspicious.

Secure Your Secret Recovery Phrase

Your Secret Recovery Phrase is the most important part of the setup process. Ledger explains that the phrase acts as a backup for the private keys associated with your wallet. It can allow the wallet to be restored if the original hardware device becomes unavailable.

Write the words down exactly as they appear on your device's trusted screen and keep the backup offline. Do not photograph the phrase or save it in email, cloud storage, notes applications, or other internet-connected services. Ledger recommends keeping the phrase private because anyone who obtains it may be able to access the associated crypto assets.

Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase with anyone. Legitimate support should not require you to provide it.

Verify Your Device Carefully

When purchasing a Ledger device, consider buying directly from Ledger or an authorized reseller. Ledger recommends checking its authorized-reseller information and warns about risks associated with unauthorized sellers.

During setup, pay attention to what is displayed directly on the Ledger device. If a device arrives with a pre-written recovery phrase or an existing PIN, do not use it as a normal new-device setup. Ledger states that a device containing a pre-completed recovery phrase or PIN may be pre-owned or potentially compromised.

Connect and Manage Your Accounts

Once your device has been initialized and your recovery information has been securely backed up, you can continue with the Ledger Wallet app and install the applications required for the assets you want to manage.

Take your time when approving transactions. Check important transaction information on your Ledger device itself rather than relying only on information displayed by a computer or phone.

For users who want additional information about recovery protection, Ledger also provides educational resources explaining recovery phrases and different backup approaches.

Keep Your Setup Secure

Security does not end after installation. Keep your Ledger device in a secure location and protect your recovery phrase from theft, loss, fire, water, and unauthorized access. Avoid entering your recovery phrase into websites, applications, computers, or phones.

For further guidance, return to Ledger.com/start and use Ledger's official support and educational resources. Following the official setup process and protecting your recovery phrase can provide a stronger foundation for responsible crypto self-custody.

Security reminder: Your PIN and Secret Recovery Phrase are private. Never provide them to anyone, even if someone claims to represent Ledger.