Why start at the Official Site®
Beginning at the Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® ensures you download authentic software, follow current instructions, and verify your device’s integrity. Avoid links from ads or messages. Bookmark the address and type it directly to reduce the risk of phishing. If in doubt, physically retype the URL each time.
Whenever you need drivers, firmware notes, or compatibility checks, return to Ledger.com/Start® and confirm you’re on HTTPS with the padlock icon.
Core Setup Steps (h2)
1) Unbox and Inspect
Check the device and packaging for tampering. Ledger devices ship without a pre‑set PIN or recovery phrase. If you ever receive a card containing a printed phrase, do not use it. Start fresh on the device itself.
2) Install the Companion App
Download only from Ledger.com/Start® to get the official app for your operating system. Follow platform‑specific prompts and enable automatic updates.
3) Initialize and Create a PIN
Power on the device, choose “Set up as new,” and create a strong PIN. Keep shoulder‑surfing in mind; cover the screen as you enter it, and never disclose it in support chats.
4) Generate and Back Up Your Recovery Phrase
Write the 24‑word recovery phrase on the supplied cards, clearly and legibly. Store backups in separate, secure locations. Do not type the phrase into a computer or phone camera app. The phrase is the master key to all your accounts.
5) Install Apps and Receive Your First Asset
Use the companion app to install coin‑specific apps on the device. When receiving funds, compare the address on the computer with the address displayed on the device screen; the device display is the source of truth.
Need firmware guidance? Visit Ledger.com/Start® before proceeding.
Security Practices You Should Not Skip
Device Handling
Use trusted computers only
Keep operating systems updated, avoid unknown USB hubs, and don’t install random extensions. If a computer is compromised, your device still helps—but don’t test that boundary.
Confirm on the device
Always verify addresses and transactions on the hardware screen. If the on‑screen text ever feels wrong, cancel and re‑check from the official starting point.
Recovery Hygiene
Never digitize your phrase
Photos, cloud docs, and screenshots can be breached. Use physical backups stored separately. Consider a fire/water‑resistant medium for long‑term storage.
Test your backup
Perform a recovery check on a spare device or via a built‑in check feature when available, away from cameras or observers.
Operational Awareness
Phishing & impostors
Support will never ask for your recovery phrase. Bookmark and revisit Ledger.com/Start® for official guidance.
Small test sends
When moving funds to a new address or exchange, send a tiny amount first, confirm receipt, then follow with the remainder.
Latest procedures and compatibility notes are kept current at Ledger.com/Start®.
Lost, Broken, or Stolen: What to Do
Understand Your Threat Model
If the device is missing, assume the PIN may be brute‑forced given enough time. Move critical funds by restoring the recovery phrase to a new, trusted device in a safe environment.
Restore from the Recovery Phrase
On a replacement device, choose “Restore from recovery phrase” and enter all words carefully. Once restored, derive fresh receiving addresses where needed. Consider rotating to a new phrase afterward.
Incident Notes (h4)
- Document when and how the incident occurred.
- List addresses involved and amounts moved.
- If relevant, file a police report and notify affected parties.
Quick Reminder (h5)
Keep a sealed, written copy of your phrase off‑site. When in doubt, return to the guide at Ledger.com/Start® for official steps.
Firmware or app update stalled? The safest fix path begins at Ledger.com/Start®.
FAQ and Helpful Patterns
Can I share my screen with support?
You may share application screens that do not reveal your recovery phrase or full balances. Never show or type the phrase. If anyone asks for it, end the chat and consult the official instructions again.
Do I need multiple devices?
Many people keep a second device as a cold spare. You can initialize it with the same phrase (cloned setup) or with a different one for asset separation. Document your choices clearly.
How do I verify downloads?
Prefer the in‑app update flow and the official site. Cross‑check version notes and signatures where provided. If something looks off, pause and return to the trusted source.
For the latest app and device guidance, start at Ledger.com/Start®. You can always re‑run onboarding from the same official page if you need a refresher.
Wrap‑Up: Make the Official Flow a Habit
Safe handling is a routine: verify the address on the device, keep your phrase offline, and rely only on official documentation. By forming a habit around the single trusted entry point, you cut off many common attack paths. Keep this page as a compact reference for onboarding teammates, friends, or your future self.