How to Prepare Your Ledger Device
Start With the Correct Website
Enter ledger.com/start directly into your browser. Carefully check the address before proceeding. Search advertisements, unexpected emails, and imitation domains can lead to fraudulent download pages.
If a website asks you to disclose your recovery phrase to activate or validate a wallet, stop immediately.
Obtain the Companion Application
Follow the official instructions to download Ledger Wallet for a supported computer or mobile device. Use only the manufacturer's website or an app store explicitly linked from its official resources. Avoid third-party installers and software shared through unsolicited messages.
Connect and Initialize the Hardware
Connect your device using a supported connection method and follow the instructions shown in the application and on the hardware screen. If you have a new device, follow the new-device setup process. If you are restoring an existing wallet, consult the official recovery instructions for your specific model.
Do not use a device that appears to have been configured by someone else. Verify any authenticity or security checks presented by the official software.
Create a PIN and Protect Your Backup
Follow the device prompts to establish your PIN. When creating a new wallet, carefully record the recovery phrase generated during the device's setup process. Keep the words in the correct order and store the backup somewhere private and secure, offline.
Never take screenshots of the phrase, upload it to cloud storage, or send it through email or messaging services.
Review Accounts and Transaction Details
After completing setup, follow the application instructions to add accounts for supported digital assets. Before receiving funds, confirm the correct asset and network. Before sending funds, inspect the recipient address, amount, and fee, then verify the transaction details on your device screen before approving.
Security Practices Worth Following
A hardware wallet can help protect access to private keys, but safe operation still depends on your decisions. Fraudulent support messages, malicious software, and exposed recovery information can put digital assets at risk.
- Keep your recovery phrase private and offline.
- Never share your PIN or recovery phrase with another person.
- Install software only from verified official sources.
- Review the complete address before confirming a transfer.
- Check network compatibility and fees before sending funds.
- Use official support documentation for unexpected prompts.
What Can Ledger Wallet Help You Manage?
Ledger Wallet is the companion application used with compatible Ledger hardware. Depending on the device, supported blockchain, and available application features, it can help users review accounts, check balances, examine transaction activity, and prepare supported transfers.
Not every asset or feature is available in every configuration. Check the current official documentation before using a particular blockchain or service. Remember that cryptocurrency transactions may be irreversible, so verify the details displayed before approving them on your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ledger.com/start?
It is Ledger's official starting page for hardware wallet setup guidance. Visit the exact address at www.ledger.com/start to find the current instructions.
Is Ledger Live still the application name?
Ledger Live has been renamed Ledger Wallet. Some older documentation may still use the previous name. Follow the current official download instructions.
Can I share my recovery phrase with support?
No. Never reveal your recovery phrase to support staff, websites, or anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Does this page guarantee that my assets are safe?
No. This guide provides general educational information. Careful setup and security habits can reduce some risks, but they cannot guarantee that loss or fraud will never occur.
Continue to the Official Setup Instructions
Use this guide to understand the process, then consult Ledger's current instructions for your specific device. Take your time during initialization, secure your recovery backup, and review every transaction before approval.
Continue to Ledger.com/start