Welcome to Ledger Start — get secure, fast

Welcome to Ledger Start — your fast, friendly gateway to owning and protecting crypto. This page guides you through the first steps, explains why a hardware wallet matters, and gets you confidently set up in minutes. We focus on clarity, practical tips, and safety-first habits so your keys stay yours.

Why a hardware wallet?

Why choose a hardware wallet? Because self-custody is freedom. Holding private keys yourself prevents third-party failure, theft, or accidental loss of access. Ledger Start combines rock-solid security with a simple workflow: receive, confirm, and store. The device isolates your private keys in a chip that never touches the internet, so signing transactions happens safely even when your computer is exposed.

What you’ll do here

We'll help you unbox, initialize, and secure your device. You’ll learn how to:

• Verify the package and authenticity.
• Initialize the device and create a recovery phrase.
• Store your recovery phrase securely.
• Pair with Ledger Live for updates and app management.
• Receive crypto and verify transactions safely.

Unboxing and verification

Check the seal and packaging. Each genuine device includes tamper-evident packaging and clear Ledger branding. Power on the device and compare the startup screen with the official images provided during the setup process. If anything looks off, pause and reach out to support before proceeding. Authenticity verification takes minutes and prevents major risks later.

Initializing and creating a recovery phrase

When prompted, choose to create a new wallet. The device will display a sequence of words — your recovery phrase — that fully restores access to your assets. Write these words down on the included card or a dedicated metal backup; never save them as a photo, text file, or cloud note. Treat the recovery phrase as the master key: if someone has it, they can move your funds.

Storing your recovery phrase

Store one copy in a physically secure location like a safe or a safety deposit box. Consider multiple geographically separated copies if you manage significant holdings. For extra resilience, use durable storage solutions such as engraved metal plates that withstand fire, water, and time. Avoid obvious labels or locations that attract attention.

Pairing with Ledger Live

Connect your device to Ledger Live to install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported networks. Ledger Live keeps your firmware and apps up to date and offers clear transaction details so you can confidently verify addresses and amounts before approving a signature on the device. Always confirm transaction details on the device screen — not just on your computer.

Receiving and verifying funds

When receiving funds, generate a receive address from Ledger Live and verify it on the device display. Address confirmation on the device protects you from malware that could alter clipboard contents or screen outputs. Receive small test amounts when using a new address to confirm everything is working.

Daily habits for ongoing security

Adopt simple routines: verify updates regularly, never share your recovery phrase, protect your PIN from shoulder surfers, and use a passphrase if you want an extra privacy layer. Consider a multisignature setup for high-value holdings. Keep firmware and app updates current, and only download Ledger Live from the official website.

Troubleshooting and support

If setup stalls or you see unexpected prompts, don’t enter your recovery phrase into a computer or phone. Use official support channels and knowledge base resources to diagnose issues. Ledger’s support team and community guides can walk you through safe recovery steps without risking seed exposure.

Closing thoughts

Ledger Start is about confidence: owning your keys, understanding the risks, and taking repeatable actions to reduce them. With a few deliberate steps — verification, secure backup, cautious pairing, and thoughtful daily habits — you lock in a level of protection that makes self-custody practical and resilient. You’re not just protecting assets; you’re controlling your financial future.

Ready to begin? Follow the on-screen prompts and keep this guide handy. If you want a checklist version or printable backup instructions, download the companion PDF from the official resources page. Congratulations — you’re taking control. Keep your keys safe, and welcome to secure self-custody.

Need help? Reach out to official Ledger support or join community channels for step-by-step walkthroughs, security tips, and recovery best practices anytime, worldwide.