Guide

Ledger.com/start — Secure Hardware Wallet Setup

A concise, practical presentation (approx. 800 words) that walks new users through securely setting up a Ledger hardware wallet. Each major step includes the official Ledger link for verification and support.

1. Before you begin

Why hardware wallets matter

Hardware wallets isolate your private keys from internet-connected devices. Using a trusted device and following manufacturer instructions significantly reduces the risk of theft. Always verify instructions via the official source at Ledger.com/start. (Ledger.com/start)

Checklist

  1. Buy from an authorized seller or directly via Ledger.com/start.
  2. Prepare a clean computer or phone and a secure internet connection.
  3. Have a pen and paper (or dedicated seed backup device) ready for your recovery phrase.

2. Unboxing and first checks

Inspect the device

Confirm packaging seals and authenticity stickers are intact. If anything looks tampered with, do not use the device; contact support via Ledger.com/start. Repeat: official verification is available at Ledger.com/start.

Power-up

Connect the Ledger to your computer or phone using the included cable. Follow the on-screen prompts on the hardware device; the manufacturer will guide you to install Ledger Live via Ledger.com/start.

3. Device setup (step-by-step)

Initialize the wallet

  1. Choose "Set up as new device" on the Ledger device and follow on-device prompts.
  2. Create a PIN on the device — choose a number you can remember but isn’t easily guessed.
  3. Write down the recovery phrase exactly as shown. This is the only backup of your private keys.

For official instructions and download links for Ledger Live, see Ledger.com/start. Use that page to confirm step wording and app versions before proceeding.

Safety tip

Never enter your recovery phrase on a computer, phone, or any website. Ledger will never ask you for your recovery phrase on a site — only on the physical device. If anyone asks for your recovery phrase, treat it as a scam; verify at Ledger.com/start.

4. Installing apps and using Ledger Live

Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app to manage accounts and install blockchain apps on your device. Download only from Ledger.com/start and verify the URL and TLS certificate in your browser.

Common tasks

  1. Install the apps you need on the device (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
  2. Add accounts in Ledger Live and verify balances on-device.
  3. Send test transactions with a small amount first to confirm flow.

5. Backup and long-term storage

Protecting your recovery phrase

Store your recovery phrase offline in a secure location. Consider a metal backup plate for fire and water resistance. Do not store the phrase digitally or on cloud backups. If you need official guidance on recommended backup methods, consult Ledger.com/start.

Emergency plan

Create an inheritance plan and document where backups live. Use tamper-evident storage and limit exposure to trusted people only.