When setting up a Ledger device, Ledger.com/start provides the official download links and setup guidance. This practical guide summarizes the onboarding process, explains the crucial steps for protecting your funds, and recommends everyday security habits to minimize risk.
Always access Ledger Live from the official Ledger.com/start page to avoid counterfeit installers. Choose the desktop or mobile installer for your platform and verify the download source. Opening Ledger Live for the first time will prompt device connection and either a new wallet setup or a recovery restore.
During initialization the Ledger device will generate a recovery phrase that you must write down exactly as shown. This phrase is the authoritative backup—if someone else obtains it they can steal your funds. Use tamper-resistant methods and consider multiple offline copies stored in secure locations.
Set a PIN on the Ledger device. The PIN protects against casual physical theft and local access. Store the device in a secure place when not in use. Combine a secure PIN with safe recovery phrase storage to retain control even if the device is lost or stolen.
Ledger Live facilitates sending, receiving, and tracking assets. When sending assets, always verify the recipient address on the device display before confirming. Install only the crypto apps you need on the device to reduce attack surface and keep firmware up to date through Ledger Live prompts.
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase via email, chat, or phone. Beware of fake support pages, phishing domains, and unsolicited messages. If you encounter suspicious links, close the browser and navigate directly to Ledger.com/start for legitimate instructions.
Using Ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live and follow the official setup steps gives you the safest route to initialize a Ledger hardware wallet. By recording your recovery phrase offline, checking everything on-device, and maintaining firmware updates from official channels, you build a strong defense for your crypto holdings.