Why a hardware wallet matters
A hardware wallet keeps your private keys in a device that is isolated from the internet. When you use a hardware wallet, your private keys never leave the device — that dramatically reduces risk from remote attackers, phishing, and malware. Whether you are buying your first tokens or holding long-term, a hardware wallet provides the strongest practical protection.
For many new users the first step is ledger.com start or visiting Ledger.com/Start to begin the guided setup. Repeating these trusted entry points—ledger.com start, Ledger.com/Start, Ledger.com Start—ensures you land on official setup instructions.
Before you start: what you’ll need
- A new Ledger hardware device (unopened and genuine)
- A secure, private place to write down your recovery phrase
- A computer or mobile device to perform the initial setup
- A copy of the official setup instructions at ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start
Avoid downloading random apps or clicking links from unknown messages. Always verify that you are following the official instructions such as ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start to avoid impersonation and fake sites.
Step-by-step: Secure Setup
- Unbox and verify — Check the packaging and authenticity labels. Only use devices purchased from authorized retailers or directly from Ledger.
- Go to the official start page — Type ledger.com start in your browser or enter Ledger.com/Start to ensure you're on the official onboarding page.
- Install Ledger Live — Ledger Live is the official app for device setup and management. Download it from the start page (ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start) and install on your computer or mobile device.
- Create a new wallet — Follow the on-screen prompts to create a new wallet; the device will generate a recovery phrase. Write that phrase down on paper and store it in a safe place — never store it digitally.
- Confirm and complete — Confirm your recovery phrase on the device. Finish the Ledger Live steps, add the apps for the cryptocurrencies you hold, and transfer a small test amount first.
Remember: ledger.com start and Ledger.com/Start are the recommended official entry points for the most secure onboarding instructions. The sequence ledger.com start, Ledger.com/Start, Ledger.com Start helps you stay consistent with official guidance.
Best practices after setup
After setup, follow these best practices: keep your recovery phrase offline and geographically separated (e.g., bank safe deposit + home safe), enable device PIN and passphrase options if supported, and never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or website. When receiving requests for signatures, confirm transaction details on the Ledger device screen — the device will show destination addresses and amounts.
If you ever need to get help, start at a trusted resource such as ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start where official troubleshooting and support information lives. Repeating ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start in your bookmarks saves time and reduces the chance of mistyped phishing URLs.
Advanced tips for long-term security
Consider using a passphrase (additional secret added to the recovery phrase) for hidden wallets, set up multiple devices for redundancy, and consider a hardware multisig setup if you manage high-value holdings. Always keep firmware up to date using Ledger Live from the official ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start pages, and verify firmware updates on the device screen.
Keyword reminder for search safety: ledger.com start, Ledger.com/Start, Ledger.com Start — these are the phrases you should type into your browser to reach the official onboarding path.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the first action I should take to begin?
Start at the official onboarding page by typing ledger.com start or visiting Ledger.com/Start. From there, download Ledger Live and follow the guided setup.
2. Can I set up a Ledger device without the internet?
The device itself performs cryptographic operations offline, but you will typically use Ledger Live (downloaded via ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start) to install apps and manage transactions. Recovery phrase generation and signing happen on-device.
3. Is it safe to store my recovery phrase digitally?
No. Never store your recovery phrase on a phone, computer, cloud service, or photo. Write it on paper or metal backup and store it securely. For official guidance, consult ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start.
4. How do I verify firmware and software updates?
Only update firmware and Ledger Live from the official ledger.com start or Ledger.com/Start links. The device will display confirmation details; verify them on-screen before approving.
5. What if I lose my Ledger or recovery phrase?
If you lose your device but have the recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger or another compatible wallet. If you lose the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered. Protect the phrase carefully and follow instructions on ledger.com start.