Ledger.com/Start — Official Ledger Setup Guide

Getting started with a Ledger hardware wallet begins with setting up the device and connecting it to Ledger’s official companion application. Ledger.com/start is the official starting point for downloading Ledger Wallet™ and beginning the setup process for a compatible Ledger device.

Ledger hardware wallets are designed to help users keep control of their private keys while managing supported digital assets. The cryptocurrency itself remains recorded on its respective blockchain; the Ledger device is used to protect the private keys that provide control over those assets. Ledger Wallet™ provides the software interface for managing accounts, viewing balances, and interacting with supported blockchain networks. (Ledger)

Visit Ledger.com/Start

The first step is to visit the official Ledger setup page rather than downloading wallet software from an unfamiliar website.

Official Ledger Start page: Ledger.com/Start

The official page provides access to Ledger Wallet™ downloads for supported desktop and mobile operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. (Ledger)

Using the official source is particularly important because cryptocurrency users can encounter fake applications and phishing websites designed to imitate legitimate wallet services.

Download Ledger Wallet™

Select the version appropriate for your operating system and install the application according to the instructions provided by Ledger.

Once Ledger Wallet™ is installed, open the application and follow the setup instructions. Connect your compatible Ledger device when prompted and continue through the on-screen setup process.

The exact interface may vary according to the Ledger device and software version, so users should follow the instructions displayed by the official application rather than relying on screenshots or instructions from unknown third-party websites.

Set Up Your Ledger Device

During initial setup, the Ledger device guides you through important security steps. These can include creating a device PIN and generating a Secret Recovery Phrase.

Ledger states that its devices generate a 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase during initialization. This phrase serves as the backup for the wallet and can be used to restore access to associated accounts if the hardware device is lost or damaged. (Ledger)

Write the words down carefully and in the correct order. Do not photograph them, save them in a computer file, or store them in an online service.

Protect Your Secret Recovery Phrase

Your Secret Recovery Phrase is one of the most important security elements in the entire setup.

Ledger advises users to keep the phrase offline and never share it with anyone. Anyone who obtains the recovery phrase may potentially gain control over the associated wallet. Ledger also warns that users should never enter their recovery phrase into a computer, smartphone, website, or other internet-connected device. (Ledger)

Ledger Support will not need your recovery phrase to provide ordinary assistance. If a person or website asks for your 24 words, treat the request as suspicious.

Create a Device PIN

A PIN helps protect the physical Ledger device from unauthorized use. Choose a PIN that you can remember while keeping it private.

Do not share your PIN with another person. Your PIN and Secret Recovery Phrase serve different purposes, so both should be protected independently.

If a device is lost or stolen, having the correct recovery phrase provides a way to restore access on another compatible device. Ledger emphasizes that protecting the recovery phrase is therefore essential to maintaining long-term access to your accounts. (Ledger)

Manage Your Crypto With Ledger Wallet™

After completing the setup, Ledger Wallet™ can be used to manage supported cryptocurrency accounts and monitor digital assets.

Depending on the asset and network, users can receive cryptocurrency, send transactions, review account activity, and manage supported assets through the application. Ledger's current wallet application is designed as an all-in-one interface for managing digital assets while keeping private keys protected by the Ledger device. (Ledger)

Before approving any transaction, carefully review the recipient address, cryptocurrency, network, and amount. If the information displayed on the device does not match your intended transaction, do not approve it.

Beware of Fake Ledger Websites

One of the most important rules when setting up a Ledger device is to use official Ledger resources.

Avoid downloading wallet software from unknown websites, unofficial advertisements, random links, or unsolicited messages. A fraudulent application can be designed to steal sensitive information or trick users into approving malicious transactions.

Ledger specifically recommends using the legitimate Ledger application obtained through Ledger's official website. (Ledger)

Final Thoughts

Ledger.com/start provides the official starting point for setting up a Ledger hardware wallet. From downloading Ledger Wallet™ to connecting your device, establishing a PIN, creating your Secret Recovery Phrase, and managing supported digital assets, the setup process is designed around self-custody and protection of private keys.