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Ledger.com/Start | Official Crypto Wallet Setup Guide

Ledger.com/Start | Official Crypto Wallet Setup Guide

Your quick, official walkthrough to setting up a Ledger hardware wallet safely — verified steps, security tips, and what to do after setup.

Overview

This guide mirrors the official onboarding flow available at Ledger.com/Start. It explains what to prepare, how to initialize your Ledger device, how to secure your recovery phrase, and how to connect your device to Ledger Live or supported web interfaces.

Before you begin

  • Ensure you have a genuine Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.).
  • Use a trusted computer or mobile device and a secure network—avoid public Wi‑Fi when performing initial setup.
  • Have a pen and the recovery card that shipped with your Ledger device; never store your recovery phrase digitally.

Step-by-step setup

1. Verify the official site

Type Ledger.com/Start directly into your browser or follow a bookmark you created. Confirm the site uses HTTPS (lock icon) and displays the correct domain.

2. Download Ledger Live or follow the web flow

Ledger provides Ledger Live for desktop and mobile management, or an in-browser guided flow for basic setups. Download software only from the official page you opened in step 1.

3. Initialize the device

When the device powers on, follow the on-device prompts to set a PIN. Use a PIN you can remember but that’s not easily guessed. The device screen is the only trusted source for confirmations.

4. Record your recovery phrase

The device will generate a 24‑word recovery phrase (some older models use 12 words). Write each word, in order, on the recovery card supplied. Store that card somewhere secure and offline. Do not take photos or save the phrase digitally.

5. Install apps and add accounts

Using Ledger Live, install blockchain-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and add corresponding accounts. Only install the apps you need to reduce attack surface.

Key security practices

Ledger hardware is secure when combined with good user practices. These are the most important rules:

  1. Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone or any website.
  2. Confirm on-device: Always verify transaction details on the physical device before approving.
  3. Keep firmware current: Update firmware only when prompted by Ledger Live and only while connected to a trusted computer.
  4. Use a secure PIN: Avoid simple or repetitive PINs; enable a passphrase only if you understand the risks and backup implications.
  5. Beware of phishing: No legitimate service will ask for your recovery phrase. Bookmark the official Ledger pages and access them directly.

Troubleshooting & support

Common setup hiccups include connection issues, unrecognized device, or installation problems. Try a different USB cable, a different port, or reinstall Ledger Live. For persistent problems, use the official support resources linked from Ledger.com/Start rather than third‑party guides.

After setup: practical tips

  • Keep the recovery card in a secure, preferably fireproof, location. Consider geographic redundancy (split storage) only if you understand the tradeoffs.
  • Regularly review installed apps and remove unused ones.
  • For staking or DeFi interactions, double-check contract addresses and confirm each action on your device.
  • Consider an additional cold storage strategy for large holdings (multiple devices, steel backup for seed phrase).

Disclaimer: This document is a general guide summarizing the official onboarding steps available at Ledger.com/Start. Always follow live instructions on the official site and consult Ledger support for device‑specific questions.