Get Started with Your Ledger Device
Welcome to ledger.com/start, the official starting point for setting up and understanding your Ledger hardware wallet. This page is designed to help you learn how Ledger devices work, why they are used to secure digital assets, and how to begin using one safely and confidently.
Ledger hardware wallets are built to give you direct control over your crypto assets by keeping private keys offline and protected from common online threats. Whether you are new to crypto or already familiar with blockchain technology, taking the time to understand the basics of Ledger security is an important step toward responsible asset management.
Understanding What a Ledger Device Does
A Ledger device is a hardware wallet, which means it stores the private keys that control your crypto assets in a secure physical device rather than on an internet-connected computer or phone. Private keys are what allow transactions to be approved on a blockchain. If someone else gains access to them, they can control the associated assets.
By keeping these keys offline, Ledger devices reduce exposure to malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access. Transactions are reviewed and confirmed directly on the device itself, adding an extra layer of verification before anything is approved.
Ledger devices are commonly used to manage cryptocurrencies, tokens, and other blockchain-based assets that are supported by Ledger software.
Why Security Matters in Crypto
Crypto assets are decentralized by design, which means there is no central authority that can reset passwords or reverse transactions. This makes personal security especially important. If access credentials are lost or compromised, assets may not be recoverable.
Ledger focuses on self-custody, meaning you remain in control of your assets at all times. With that control comes responsibility. Understanding how to protect your device, recovery phrase, and PIN is essential to long-term security.
Good security habits include:
Keeping sensitive information private
Verifying transactions carefully
Using official software and resources
Staying informed about common scams
Ledger Live and Companion Software
Ledger devices work together with Ledger Live, the official companion application available for desktop and mobile platforms. Ledger Live allows you to view balances, manage accounts, install apps on your device, and interact with supported blockchains.
While Ledger Live connects to the internet to display information and broadcast transactions, private keys never leave the Ledger device. All approvals are done on the hardware wallet itself.
It’s important to only download Ledger Live from official Ledger sources and to keep the application up to date for security and compatibility.
Setting Up Your Ledger Device
When starting with a Ledger device for the first time, you will be guided through an initial setup process on the device screen. This typically includes choosing a PIN code and generating a recovery phrase.
The recovery phrase is a unique sequence of words that serves as a backup for your wallet. If your device is lost, damaged, or replaced, this phrase is the only way to restore access to your assets. Anyone with access to this phrase can control your assets.
Because of this, Ledger emphasizes that your recovery phrase should:
Be written down and stored offline
Never be shared digitally or with other people
Never be entered into websites, apps, or messages
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Verifying Device Authenticity
Ledger devices include security checks designed to confirm that the device is genuine and has not been tampered with. Using official software ensures that these checks are performed correctly.
Purchasing Ledger devices from authorized sources helps reduce the risk of receiving a compromised product. If anything about your device or setup process seems unusual, it’s important to pause and consult official Ledger support resources before continuing.
Managing Crypto Assets Responsibly
Once your device is set up, you can use it to manage supported cryptocurrencies and tokens. Asset management includes receiving, storing, and sending crypto while maintaining control of your private keys.
Before making transactions, always:
Verify addresses carefully
Confirm transaction details on the device screen
Understand network fees and blockchain confirmations
Blockchain transactions are typically irreversible, so taking time to review each action is an important habit.
Keeping Your Ledger Secure Over Time
Security doesn’t end after setup. Ongoing protection includes both physical and digital considerations.
Best practices include:
Keeping your device in a safe place
Using a strong, private PIN
Avoiding public or untrusted computers
Keeping firmware and software updated
Staying informed about common scams, such as phishing emails or fake websites, is also essential. Attackers often attempt to trick users into revealing recovery phrases or approving malicious transactions.
Education and Learning Resources
Ledger provides educational materials to help users better understand crypto security, blockchain technology, and responsible asset management. Learning how blockchains work and how transactions are confirmed can make it easier to recognize suspicious activity and avoid mistakes.
Taking time to learn before acting is especially important for users who are new to crypto. Security awareness is one of the strongest tools you have.
Support and Official Help
If you encounter issues or have questions, Ledger’s official support channels are available to provide guidance. Using official documentation and verified support resources helps ensure that information is accurate and secure.
Be cautious of unsolicited messages or offers of help from unofficial sources. Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase, PIN, or private keys.
Your Responsibility as a Ledger User
Using a Ledger device means taking responsibility for your own security. While Ledger provides tools designed to protect your assets, the safety of your crypto ultimately depends on how you use those tools.
By following best practices, staying informed, and using official resources, you can reduce risk and build confidence in managing digital assets over time.
Start Securely with Ledger
ledger.com/start is the official place to begin your Ledger journey. Take your time, read carefully, and make sure you understand each step before proceeding. Security is not about speed—it’s about accuracy, awareness, and good habits.
By approaching setup and usage thoughtfully, you can use your Ledger device as a strong foundation for managing digital assets in a secure and responsible way.