Official Site* | Ledger.com/Start — Official Ledger Guide

Overview

Ledger.com/Start is the official onboarding path for Ledger hardware wallets. The process verifies your device, installs signed firmware, and generates private keys directly inside the secure element. Following this quickstart ensures your keys remain offline and that you maintain sole control of your assets.

Security-first: the device display is the authoritative source of truth. Confirm prompts and never reveal your recovery phrase to anyone.

Quick Setup — Step by step

Unbox and inspect. Verify packaging integrity and included accessories.
Connect to your computer. Use the supplied USB cable and connect only to a trusted machine.
Open Ledger.com/Start. Follow the step-by-step prompts to download and launch Ledger Live — the official app for managing your device and crypto.
Install firmware. The device will request firmware installation during first use; allow only signed firmware from Ledger Live.
Create a new wallet. Generate your private keys on the device; never export keys off the device.
Record your recovery phrase. Carefully write down the 24-word seed shown on your device. Store it offline in a secure location.
Set a PIN. Create a unique PIN to protect the device’s local interface.
Confirm and finish. Verify device status in Ledger Live and add accounts for the assets you wish to manage.

Complete each step exactly as it appears on the device screen — the hardware display prevents remote tampering or phishing.

Security Principles

Ledger devices use a secure element and validated firmware to isolate private keys. Key security properties:

Private key isolation: Keys are generated and stored on the device only.
On-device verification: All transaction approvals and critical steps require manual confirmation on the device screen.
Signed firmware: The device accepts only firmware signed by Ledger cryptographic keys.
Recovery seed: The 24-word recovery phrase is the sole means to restore a wallet — keep it offline and secure.
Open practices: Ledger’s security approach is explicit and auditable; follow the official setup path to maintain protections.

Best Practices

Always start setup at Ledger.com/Start and use Ledger Live for device interactions.
Never enter your recovery phrase into a website, file, or cloud service.
Store the recovery seed physically (paper or metal) in secure, geographically separated locations.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated; updates include security hardening and new asset support.
Verify addresses on the device screen before approving any send or contract operation.
Consider additional protections such as passphrase-enabled hidden wallets for advanced use cases.

Treat your recovery seed and device as the highest-value assets — protect them accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is Ledger Live and do I need it?
A: Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application used to manage accounts, install firmware, and interface with your Ledger device. It is required for signing transactions and maintaining device firmware.

Q2: What if I lose my Ledger device?
A: If you lose your device, restore your wallet on a new Ledger (or compatible hardware) using your 24-word recovery phrase. The phrase is the ultimate backup — without it, recovery is impossible.

Q3: Should I store my recovery seed digitally?
A: No. Digital storage exposes the seed to online compromise. Keep physical backups and consider metal backups for long-term durability.

Q4: Can firmware updates compromise my wallet?
A: Ledger firmware is cryptographically signed; only official firmware can be installed. Always use Ledger Live to update the device to ensure integrity.

Q5: What is a passphrase and should I use it?
A: A passphrase is an optional additional secret that derives an extra wallet layer (hidden wallet). It increases security but requires strict backup discipline — losing the passphrase means losing access to that hidden wallet.

Q6: How do I verify my device is genuine?
A: Inspect packaging for tampering and follow Ledger.com/Start verification steps. Only proceed if the device and packaging appear authentic.