01 THE ORIENTATION
What does Ledger.com/start mean?
Ledger.com/start is Ledger’s official starting point for setting up a Ledger device. It guides owners toward the current setup instructions and companion software for their product. This page is an independent educational resource, not a Ledger website or support channel. Use it to prepare and understand the process, then confirm device-specific instructions directly at Ledger.com/start. A hardware wallet keeps the keys used to approve transactions on the device, while you remain responsible for checking each approval.
02 BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Getting started, without the guesswork
Set aside quiet time in a private place. Start with the exact model you own; buttons, cables, and screen prompts can differ between devices.
Check the source
Type the official address yourself or use a trusted bookmark. Be wary of search ads, lookalike domains, unsolicited messages, and QR codes from unknown sources.
Gather the basics
Have the device, a suitable cable, and a compatible computer or phone ready. Check current compatibility notes first.
Make room for focus
Choose a place where nobody can see your recovery words. Keep paper and a pen nearby if official instructions ask you to record them.
Avoid starting setup from a link sent in a direct message, email, or pop-up. Navigate to the verified official site independently.
03 THE WALKTHROUGH
A step-by-step setup approach
Follow the on-screen prompts and official instructions for your specific device. The outline below is a preparation aid, not a substitute for current model-specific guidance.
- 01
Confirm you have the right device
Check the model and inspect the packaging and device. Follow Ledger’s current authenticity guidance; never use a pre-written recovery phrase from a box or another person.
- 02
Get the companion app from the source
Use the download route linked from the official setup page and confirm the destination before installing. Keep software current; ignore unsolicited download offers.
- 03
Initialize the device yourself
Choose the new-device flow and follow the device display. Create a private PIN. If prompts differ from official instructions, stop and verify.
- 04
Record recovery information offline
If the device generates recovery words, record them exactly as directed and check them. Store the record privately; never photograph, type, or save it in cloud notes.
- 05
Complete the device’s verification
Use only the official verification flow. Never enter the recovery phrase on a website or app to “synchronize” or validate your wallet. Stop if asked.
- 06
Review every transaction
Before approving, check addresses, network details, and amounts on the device display. A connected app may prepare a transaction; the device screen is where you verify it.
04 KEEPING CONTROL
Security tips worth remembering
Your recovery phrase is the backup to your wallet. Treat it like the keys themselves.
- Never disclose it. Ledger support, a legitimate exchange, and this guide will never need your recovery words, PIN, or private keys.
- Keep it offline and private. Avoid digital copies, screenshots, printers, password managers, and messages. Consider physical risks such as fire, water, and unauthorized access.
- Pause at unexpected requests. A website, app, or person asking for your phrase is a serious warning sign. Close the page and navigate to official support independently.
- Verify before approving. Read the device screen carefully; an approval can authorize an action you cannot easily reverse.
Never enter recovery words in a browser or share them for troubleshooting. If exposed, consult official security guidance from a trusted device and ignore unsolicited “help.”
05 QUICK CLARIFICATIONS
Common setup questions
Should I use recovery words that came with the device?
No. Follow the official device setup flow and generate recovery information yourself; never use words supplied on a card, in packaging, or by someone else.
Do I need to enter my phrase in the companion app?
No. Follow official, model-specific device instructions and stop if a website, computer, or app asks you to disclose it.
What if my screen or app looks different?
Check current, model-specific instructions at Ledger.com and reach support from the official site. Ignore unsolicited offers of help.
Where should I verify the latest instructions?
Type ledger.com/start yourself, then reach product support from links on that official site.
06 ONE LAST THOUGHT
Slow is a good way to start
Take setup one prompt at a time, trust only sources you verify independently, and keep recovery information entirely private. For the latest steps, device compatibility, and support, return to Ledger’s official start page. This guide is educational and is not affiliated with Ledger.