Get Started with Your Ledger Device

Welcome to Your Secure Crypto Journey

Congratulations on choosing to begin your crypto asset management journey with a hardware wallet. By selecting a device from Ledger, you’re taking control of your digital assets. This page is your official starting point to set up your device, install and use the companion software, and keep your assets safe.

Whether this is your first hardware wallet or you have prior experience, this guide will walk you through each phase—from unboxing to managing multiple cryptocurrencies—while emphasising best‑practice security guidelines to protect your funds.

Below you’ll find why choosing Ledger matters, how to follow a step‑by‑step setup process, what security tips you should follow, a quick FAQ, and a concluding call to action.

Why Choose Ledger?

In the world of cryptocurrencies and digital assets, security is everything. Your private keys represent ownership of your coins and tokens. If someone gains access to them, your assets can be moved—and lost—irrevocably. That’s why using a trusted hardware wallet is a wise step.

Ledger devices have been designed from the ground up with security in mind. Among the key benefits are:

• Cold‑storage protection: Your private keys are stored offline on the device and never exposed to the internet.
• Wide asset support: Manage thousands of coins and tokens within the ecosystem.
• Device authentication: As soon as you plug in the device, the screen guides you to a secure setup and ensures you truly own the device.
• Verified companion software: The official application helps you manage your accounts, send and receive funds, stake, and monitor portfolio performance—all while keeping security at the forefront.
• Active support & updates: Regular firmware enhancements and security patches help keep you protected in a dynamic ecosystem.

By starting at the official setup page, you ensure you use the authentic resources and avoid phishing links or fake downloads. Always start with the official URL to reduce risk of compromise.

Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide

Let’s walk through the setup process to get your device ready. The instructions below assume you have just received your Ledger device in sealed packaging.

1. Unbox and Verify Your Device

Remove the wallet from its packaging and inspect that it is untampered, sealed, and matches what you ordered. Do not use a device that appears pre‑configured, has loose packaging, or shows signs of prior use.

2. Visit the Official Setup Page

Open your web browser and navigate to https://www.ledger.com/start. This is the only official onboarding portal for your device. Avoid third‑party sites, search‑results that look suspicious, or links in unsolicited communications.

3. Download the Companion App (Ledger Live)

On the official page you will find download links for desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android) versions of the Ledger Live application. Please download directly from this site to ensure authenticity and integrity.

4. Initialize the Device

Connect your device to your computer or smartphone. The screen will instruct you to choose a PIN code (4‑8 digits) and will then generate a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). Write down these words on the recovery sheet provided—**never** type them in a computer or store them digitally. Store this sheet offline in a secure place.

5. Install Cryptocurrency Apps & Add Accounts

Using the Ledger Live software, navigate to “Manager” (on desktop) or the equivalent section on mobile. Install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you intend to use (for example Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). Then add accounts for each asset. The device will confirm each action on its screen to prevent tampering.

6. Send, Receive, Stake & Manage Assets

Once your accounts are added, you can begin interacting with your crypto: send funds, receive funds, swap tokens, or stake supported assets for rewards. The companion app provides a unified dashboard for portfolio tracking and account management.

7. Keep Everything Updated

Periodically check for firmware updates for your device and software updates for Ledger Live. These updates help you stay protected against emerging threats and gain access to new functions and supported assets.

Following these steps will get your Ledger device up and running in a secure manner, giving you control of your digital assets with confidence.

Security Tips & Best Practices

Security is not a one‑time setup—it’s an ongoing mindset. The following practices will help you protect your assets over the long term.

• Never share your recovery phrase. Nobody—no support agent, no friend—should ever ask for your 24 words. Entering them into any website or online form is a risk of full asset loss.
• Store your recovery sheet offline. Preferably on paper or a metal plate, and stored in a safe or secure location. Avoid digital copies (screenshots, photos, text files).
• Use only the official site for downloads. Always ensure you’re on the legitimate URL (ledger.com) before downloading Ledger Live or any firmware. Fake sites are a major scam vector.
• Verify your device before use. New devices should never arrive pre‑initialized. If you suspect a tampered device, do not proceed with setup and contact official support.
• Enable device PIN and passphrase if supported. A PIN prevents physical access; a passphrase adds an extra layer of security (though you must memorize it or store it securely offline too).
• Keep software and firmware up to date. Security threats evolve, so regular updates ensure you have the latest protections and features.
• Beware of phishing & social engineering. Many scams impersonate official brands, offer fake updates, or ask you to install third‑party software. When in doubt, stop and verify through official channels.
• Have a backup plan. If your device is lost, stolen or damaged, you should be able to recover your funds using the 24‑word seed on a new device—but only if it remains safe and unrevealed.

By adopting these habits, you reduce risks and make your journey into the crypto world much safer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if I lose my Ledger device?

If you lose your device but still have your recovery phrase stored, you can restore your funds on a new compatible device using that phrase. If both your device and phrase are lost, your funds are irrecoverable—so protect the phrase above all.

Does Ledger Live cost anything?

No. The companion software is free to download and use. You only pay standard blockchain transaction fees when sending or receiving assets, and any fees associated with network staking or third‑party services.

Can I manage multiple cryptocurrencies at once?

Yes. After setting up the device and installing the appropriate apps in Ledger Live, you can add accounts for multiple assets and manage them all through the single interface. This makes tracking and controlling diverse portfolios easier.

What happens if my computer gets hacked?

With a hardware wallet, your private keys never leave the device—in most cases meaning even if your computer is compromised, the attacker cannot access your keys. However, you still need to maintain safe computing practices and avoid exposing your recovery phrase or installing untrusted software.

Is my 24‑word phrase backed up by Ledger?

No. The recovery phrase is generated on your device and only you know it. Ledger does not store or have access to your seed phrase—this ensures that you remain fully in control of your assets.

What if I bought my device from a reseller?

Always confirm that the packaging is sealed and that the device has not been initialized. If it shows any signs of tampering, do not use it—and contact official support. It is safest to buy from an authorised reseller or the manufacturer directly.

Conclusion: Begin With Confidence

You’ve now reached the end of this guide. The journey of securing and managing your crypto assets with a hardware wallet begins here—but it doesn’t end. By using your Ledger device, following the setup steps, and practicing strong security habits, you place yourself in control.

The digital asset ecosystem is growing, evolving, and offering new opportunities—but it also demands that you protect what you own. Starting on the right footing means less worry, more confidence, and freedom to explore.

Head now to the official setup page (https://www.ledger.com/start) to begin your setup. Each moment you delay is a moment your assets may be less protected. Act now, begin securely, and stay vigilant.