Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started with Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Getting started with a Ledger hardware wallet is designed to be straightforward, but taking the right security steps from the beginning is essential. Ledger devices are hardware wallets that keep private keys protected while allowing you to manage supported crypto assets through compatible software.

Start Your Ledger Setup Safely

The first step is to obtain your Ledger device from Ledger or an authorized source and inspect the packaging when it arrives. During setup, connect the device according to Ledger's official instructions and install the appropriate Ledger software from a verified Ledger source.

Never enter your Secret Recovery Phrase into a website, online form, email, or chat. Your recovery phrase is intended for restoring access to your wallet and should remain offline and private. Anyone who obtains it may be able to control assets associated with that wallet.

For additional guidance, see the official Ledger getting started documentation before continuing with account setup.

Create and Protect Your PIN

During the initial setup, your Ledger device will guide you through creating a PIN. Choose a PIN that is difficult for others to guess and do not share it with anyone. The PIN helps protect access to the physical device, while the Secret Recovery Phrase serves a different and more important recovery function.

If you are comparing hardware-wallet security models, you may also want to review our Trezor hardware wallet setup guide and Trezor login and device access guide.

Keep Your Recovery Phrase Offline

Your Secret Recovery Phrase should be written down during the wallet's setup process and stored securely offline. Avoid photographing it, storing it in cloud storage, typing it into a computer, or sending it through messaging applications.

Ledger support will not need your recovery phrase to troubleshoot an ordinary device or account issue. Be especially cautious of websites or individuals claiming that you must provide the phrase to "verify," "synchronize," or "unlock" your wallet.

If you also use another hardware wallet, read how to protect a Trezor recovery phrase for general security practices that apply across many self-custody wallets.

Accessing Your Wallet

Once your Ledger device is initialized, you can use compatible Ledger software to view supported accounts and manage transactions. Confirm transaction details directly on the hardware device before approving anything. This provides an additional opportunity to verify the recipient and amount before a transaction is signed.

Users researching alternatives can also compare Trezor hardware login and security with Ledger's device-based authentication approach. Always use the manufacturer's official documentation when downloading wallet software or troubleshooting a device.

Stay Alert for Fake Support Pages

Crypto users are frequently targeted by phishing websites that imitate legitimate wallet providers. Check the domain carefully, avoid unsolicited support messages, and do not follow unknown links requesting your PIN or recovery phrase.

For the safest experience, navigate directly to Ledger's official website rather than relying on advertisements, social-media messages, or unexpected search results. When in doubt, stop before entering any credentials or approving a transaction and verify the information through official documentation.

Following these basic practices can make the initial Ledger setup more secure and help protect your wallet throughout its use.