Ledger Start® | Get Started with Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

What Is Ledger Start®?

Ledger Start® is the official onboarding process designed to help users activate, configure, and understand their Ledger hardware wallet. It focuses on empowering individuals with full control over their digital assets while maintaining industry-leading security standards.

Unlike software-only wallets, Ledger devices store private keys inside a secure chip, isolating them from internet-connected threats. Ledger Start® ensures that every user begins with a verified setup process, minimizing risks caused by incorrect initialization.

From first connection to daily usage, Ledger Start® acts as the foundation of your self-custody experience, offering clarity, structure, and confidence throughout the setup journey.

Core Purpose

Ledger Start® exists to ensure that every hardware wallet is set up correctly from the very beginning. A secure start is essential, as mistakes during initialization may compromise long-term safety.

Preparing Your Ledger Device

Before beginning the setup process, ensure your Ledger device is new, sealed, and purchased from an authorized source. A genuine Ledger device will never come pre-configured or include a recovery phrase inside the box.

Connect the device to your computer or mobile device using the provided cable. The device screen will guide you through initial prompts, confirming that the setup is being performed for the first time.

Ledger Start® emphasizes verifying authenticity during the first connection. This step ensures that your hardware wallet firmware is legitimate and untampered.

Before You Begin

Always initialize your wallet in a private environment. Avoid cameras, screen recording software, or public spaces during setup to maintain full confidentiality.

Creating Your Secure Foundation

Ledger Start® guides users through critical security steps that form the backbone of long-term asset protection.

PIN Code Creation

During setup, you will create a PIN code directly on the Ledger device. This PIN protects physical access and prevents unauthorized use if the device is lost or stolen.

Recovery Phrase Generation

The recovery phrase is generated offline and displayed only once. It represents the master backup of all accounts stored on the device.

Offline Storage Best Practices

Ledger Start® strongly recommends storing your recovery phrase on paper or metal and never digitizing it. Online storage significantly increases exposure to threats.

Using Ledger After Setup

Once the setup is complete, your Ledger device becomes a daily security companion. Transactions require physical confirmation on the device, adding a powerful layer of protection.

Ledger Start® prepares users to understand how approvals work, how applications are installed, and how accounts remain isolated within the secure environment of the hardware wallet.

This structure ensures that even if a connected computer is compromised, private keys remain protected.

Daily Confidence

Every transaction must be reviewed and approved directly on the device screen, ensuring transparency and control at all times.

Long-Term Safety Guidance

Ledger Start® is not just about setup—it encourages habits that support long-term asset safety. Regular firmware updates, careful transaction review, and strict recovery phrase protection are essential practices.

Users are advised to remain vigilant against phishing attempts and never share sensitive information. Ledger will never request your recovery phrase, PIN, or private keys.

By following the principles introduced during Ledger Start®, users establish a strong, sustainable security mindset.