ledger.com/start — Get Started with Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Description

The ledger.com/start entry is the recommended onboarding route for anyone who has just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet. It is designed to provide clear, practical steps that minimize risk and ensure users follow security-first practices. The guide covers downloading the Ledger companion application, device initialization, PIN selection, recording the recovery phrase, and applying firmware updates. The objective is to ensure that private keys remain secure inside the hardware device while giving users a straightforward setup experience.

The start flow addresses both new users who are creating a wallet for the first time and returning users who need to restore an existing wallet from a recovery phrase. It emphasizes authenticity checks, correct backup procedures, and how to confirm the device state during critical operations.

Why follow the official start flow?

Following the official start flow reduces exposure to common threats such as phishing sites, fake companion apps, and pre-initialized devices. The official guidance ensures you install trusted software, verify firmware integrity when prompted, and create your recovery phrase in a private environment. Skipping or improvising these steps increases the risk that a malicious actor could intercept credentials, replace firmware, or trick you into revealing the recovery phrase.

Step-by-step setup

1. Prepare a secure environment: Choose a private, trusted computer or mobile device and a reliable USB cable (or Bluetooth if supported).
2. Download the official companion app: Install the Ledger desktop or mobile application appropriate for your system.
3. Unbox and inspect the device: Check the packaging and the device for signs of tampering before powering it on.
4. Initialize the device: Follow the on-screen prompts to create a new wallet or restore an existing one. Choose a strong PIN when prompted.
5. Write down the recovery phrase: Carefully record the recovery words exactly as shown. Keep this backup offline and secure; it is the only way to recover funds if the device is lost or damaged.
6. Install firmware updates: If the application prompts for a firmware update, follow the guided process to apply it safely from the companion app.
7. Install coin apps and add accounts: Use the companion app to install support for coins you plan to use and add corresponding accounts to view balances and addresses.

Security checklist

• Always start at ledger.com/start or the official source for downloads and guidance.
• Buy devices only from authorized sellers and avoid second-hand or pre-configured hardware.
• Never type or photograph your recovery phrase; record it on durable, offline media.
• Use a unique, non-obvious PIN and enable any optional security features that suit your threat model.
• Confirm transaction details directly on the device screen before approving.
• Keep your host system updated and free from obvious malware or untrusted software.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Device not detected: Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device powers on, and restart the companion app.
• Firmware update fails: Reboot the device and the application, ensure a stable connection, and carefully repeat the update steps.
• Forgotten PIN: You will need to reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase; there is no password reset without the recovery backup.
• Recovery phrase problems: If the recorded phrase is incorrect or missing words, stop and attempt to regenerate or restore only through the official flow to avoid data loss.

What to expect after setup

Once setup is complete, you will be able to view account balances, receive funds, and create transactions that must be approved on your Ledger device. The companion app provides portfolio views, transaction history, and utilities to manage installed blockchain apps on the device. Over time, keep an eye on software and firmware update prompts and follow them to maintain compatibility and security.

A small test transaction is recommended before moving significant amounts: send a modest sum to a Ledger-generated address and confirm receipt to validate the full send/receive workflow.

Quick start checklist

1. Confirm you have the physical device and recovery card.
2. Use a trusted computer or mobile device for setup.
3. Install the official companion app for your platform.
4. Initialize the device, set PIN, and write down the recovery phrase offline.
5. Perform a small test transaction and schedule routine checks for updates.