Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

Welcome — start securely with Ledger

This landing page gives you a complete, approachable walkthrough to set up a Ledger hardware wallet, create a secure recovery backup, verify firmware, and follow good operational practices. The content below is intentionally clear and colorful to help you move step-by-step — whether you are a new user or returning to refresh your security routine.

Keep keys offline

Ledger devices store private keys inside the hardware — they never leave the device.

On-device verification

Every transaction shows details on the device display for you to confirm before signing.

Recovery & backup

Use the recovery phrase to restore funds if the device is lost — protect it offline.

Inspect & unbox

Check packaging and seals before powering on. If anything seems tampered, pause and confirm the device authenticity through your purchase channel.

Prepare your environment

Use a trusted computer, up-to-date OS, and a fresh browser profile. Avoid public Wi-Fi and cameras while writing down your recovery phrase.

Install management app

Install and open the official local Ledger management app you already trust. The app will guide you through firmware checks and initialization flows.

Create wallet & backup seed

Generate a new recovery phrase and write it down clearly in order. Store copies in separate secure locations (fire/water resistant where possible).

Set PIN & optional passphrase

Set a PIN for local device access. Use a passphrase only if you understand the recovery implications and can secure it separately.

Test with small transactions

Send and receive small amounts to confirm your workflow before moving larger balances. Verify all addresses on the device screen.

Quick FAQ

What if I lose my device?

Restore your wallet on a new device using your recovery phrase. If the phrase is lost or exposed, treat funds as at risk and consider moving them if possible.

Should I store my recovery phrase digitally?

No. Do not take photos, save in cloud storage, or type it into a device. Physical, offline storage is far safer.

Is the PIN enough?

PIN prevents easy access if the device is stolen but doesn’t replace the seed backup. Combine PIN with secure seed storage for a layered defense.

At a glance

Short checklist you can keep visible while you set up:

1. Verify packaging and accessories
2. Use trusted computer and fresh browser
3. Create seed and store offline
4. Set PIN and consider passphrase
5. Test with small transfers

Security tips

Protect your recovery phrase — treat it like cash

Prefer metal backup plates for long-term durability. Avoid showing your seed to anyone, including family or "support" services — legitimate support never asks for your full seed.

Common pitfalls

Storing seeds in cloud-synced photos or notes.
Using unverified third-party apps that alter signing prompts.
Ignoring firmware signature checks.

For power users

Consider multi-signature for large holdings, and institute audit & rotation policies for institutional use. Periodic recovery rehearsals ensure backups remain usable.

Deep dive — what each step protects and why it matters

A hardware wallet's security rests on clear separation: private keys are generated and stored in the device’s secure element; signing occurs locally and only after you confirm that the transaction details shown on the device match your intent. This prevents remote attackers—malware, phishing pages, or compromised wallets—from unauthorised transfers because they cannot produce a valid signature without the device and your physical confirmation.

The recovery phrase is the single critical backup. It reconstructs the keys if the device is lost. Because of its power, it must never exist in searchable or network-connected media. Physical theft, fire, and water are real risks — choose backup methods (paper + metal) and storage locations accordingly. A layered approach (PIN + seed + optional passphrase + secure storage) balances convenience and security for most users.

Why firmware verification matters

Firmware controls low-level operations. Cryptographically signed firmware ensures the code you run on the device matches what the manufacturer published. Bypassing firmware verification could allow altered code to leak seeds or falsify transaction prompts. Always update firmware using the official, verified flow and only install signed updates.

Passphrase tradeoffs

A passphrase can create multiple hidden wallets tied to the same recovery phrase. It dramatically increases security if managed properly — but it also adds complexity and risk: if you lose the passphrase, access to that wallet is irretrievable. For most users, passphrases are an advanced feature used with careful planning (secure storage of the passphrase, redundancy in access for estate planning, and clear procedures).

Practical troubleshooting & maintenance

If the device is not detected, try another USB cable or port, ensure the host app has permissions, and reboot the host if necessary. For persistent issues, use a clean host machine to rule out interference. Keep companion apps and OS drivers up to date. If you cannot resolve an issue, rely on official support channels you used when purchasing — avoid disclosing your seed or passphrase to anyone.

Regular maintenance

Periodically verify that your seed backups are legible and accessible.
Check for firmware updates and apply them from trusted sources.
Rehearse recovery procedures in a secure environment to ensure you can restore if needed.

Final checklist before moving significant funds

Seed backed up in at least two secure locations and never digitized.
PIN set and tested; you can unlock the device reliably.
Device firmware up to date and verified via the management application.
Small inbound/outbound test transactions completed successfully.
Passphrase considered and planned for if enabled.
Emergency recovery plan and trusted contacts documented (without revealing secrets).