Your journey to secure crypto ownership begins here.
Welcome to the world of self-custody. This guide will help you set up your new Ledger hardware wallet securely and confidently, so you can take full control of your digital assets.
Read the Full GuideThe Ledger.com/Start process is your official and most secure entry point into the Ledger ecosystem. By following these steps carefully, you will create a highly secure environment for managing your cryptocurrency. The process involves installing the necessary software, setting up your device, and, most importantly, creating and backing up your unique 24-word recovery phrase.
Begin by physically inspecting the packaging of your Ledger device. Make sure the tamper-evident seals are intact. A broken or missing seal could indicate that the device has been compromised. Once you're confident your device is secure, take it out of the box and connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable. Your Ledger device will power on and display a welcome message, prompting you to visit the official setup website: Ledger.com/Start.
Crucial Security Check: Always type the URL `Ledger.com/Start` directly into your browser's address bar. Do not click on links from emails, social media, or search engine results. This simple act is your first line of defense against phishing attacks.
Upon visiting the official setup page, you will be guided to download and install Ledger Live, the official desktop and mobile application for your Ledger hardware wallet. Ledger Live is the software interface you will use to manage your cryptocurrencies. It is a standalone application, which provides an added layer of security by reducing the browser's potential attack surface.
After downloading the installer, run it and follow the on-screen instructions. Once the installation is complete, launch Ledger Live. The application will detect your connected Ledger device and begin the firmware installation process. Firmware is the operating system for your hardware wallet; keeping it updated is vital for security.
This is the most critical part of the setup process. Ledger Live will present you with two options: "Set up as a new device" or "Restore from a recovery phrase." For a brand new device, you must choose "Set up as a new device." This action will generate your unique cryptographic keys inside the secure chip of your Ledger device. These keys are the mathematical foundation of your wallet and are the only way to access your funds. The keys themselves never leave your device.
Following the key generation, Ledger Live will prompt you to create your **24-word Recovery Phrase**. This is a sequence of 24 words that acts as your master backup. It is the only way to restore your wallet and funds if your Ledger device is ever lost, stolen, or damaged. Your Ledger device will display these words one by one on its screen. You must write them down precisely on the provided recovery card. It is a one-time process, so pay close attention.
⚠️ ABSOLUTELY DO NOT...
Your recovery phrase should only exist on paper. A hacker who gains access to your digital files can steal your funds in seconds. Treat your recovery phrase like a combination to a high-security vault—it must be kept offline and completely private.
After you have written down your recovery phrase, Ledger Live will ask you to confirm a few words to ensure you have copied them correctly. This is an essential verification step.
The next step is to set a Personal Identification Number (PIN). This PIN is used to unlock your Ledger device every time you want to use it. The PIN is entered on the Ledger device's screen using the physical buttons to select digits. This entry method protects you from keyloggers because you are not using your computer's keyboard. You will set and confirm your PIN twice.
A longer PIN (4 to 8 digits) is more secure. Do not use easily guessable numbers like your birth date or "1234." Remember your PIN, but do not write it on the recovery card or anywhere near your device.
After setting your PIN, your Ledger device is ready to use. Ledger Live will show you your secure dashboard, and you can now start managing your cryptocurrencies. At this point, it's a good practice to verify your device's authenticity. Ledger Live has a built-in feature called "Genuine Check" that confirms your device is a legitimate and secure product from Ledger. This process cryptographically proves that the device's secure element is genuine and was not tampered with. It is highly unlikely for a new, sealed device to have been compromised, but this step provides peace of mind.
With the initial setup complete, you can now explore Ledger Live. The dashboard provides an overview of your portfolio. You can install apps for different cryptocurrencies, manage accounts, and even buy, sell, or exchange crypto through integrated partners. Remember, every transaction you initiate must be confirmed on your Ledger device, using your PIN and the physical buttons. This ensures that no one can move your funds without physical access to your device and knowledge of your PIN.
For even greater security, Ledger devices support a feature called a **passphrase**. A passphrase is a custom word or phrase that you can add to your recovery phrase. This creates a hidden wallet, essentially adding a 25th word to your 24-word phrase. If a thief were to find your recovery phrase, they would still not be able to access your funds without knowing the passphrase. A passphrase is a powerful tool, but remember: if you lose or forget it, your funds are permanently lost. A passphrase is not a substitute for your PIN; it is an additional layer of security for the most diligent users.
Congratulations, you have successfully set up your Ledger hardware wallet! By following the secure `Ledger.com/Start` process, you have taken a monumental step in securing your digital assets. This process has empowered you to take full control, removing the need to trust third-party custodians with your funds. The combination of your physical device, your PIN, and your recovery phrase forms an unbreakable triad of security, shielding your crypto from the threats of the digital world. Always remember to prioritize the security of your recovery phrase, trust only what you see on your Ledger's screen, and keep your firmware up to date. This proactive approach will serve you well on your journey into the world of Web3 and cryptocurrency.