Ledger.com/start is the starting point recommended for safely installing Ledger Live and initializing your Ledger hardware wallet. This article walks through the onboarding essentials, highlights security checks, and offers tips to reduce risk during setup and daily use.
Confirm your Ledger device is sealed and genuine. Use a personal computer with an updated OS and web browser. Ensure you have a pen and the provided recovery card or a dedicated metal backup for recording the recovery phrase—never rely on screenshots.
After downloading Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start, run the installer and open the application. Connect your Ledger device and choose whether to set up as a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase. For new devices, generate a PIN and the explicit 24-word recovery phrase shown on the device only.
Ledger devices present transaction details and seed words on their built-in screen. This ensures untrusted host computers or malware cannot spoof sensitive information. Always read the device screen carefully and verify addresses and amounts before approving any transaction.
Consider enabling an optional passphrase (adds a word to your seed, creating hidden wallets) if you need plausible deniability or account isolation. Keep in mind passphrases are powerful: if lost, you may permanently lose access to funds in that hidden wallet.
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, you can restore your accounts on a new compatible Ledger device using your recovery phrase. Only do this through official recovery flows via Ledger Live or supported recovery tools—never reveal your phrase to third parties.
Visiting Ledger.com/start and following the official onboarding path helps ensure a clean, secure wallet initialization. Pair that with careful handling of recovery information, device confirmations, and official firmware updates to maintain robust long-term protection for your cryptocurrency holdings.