Ledger Start: Securely set up Ledger Live and your hardware wallet

This page explains how to complete your Ledger Start quickly and securely. Follow official steps to install Ledger Live, initialize your Ledger device, back up your recovery phrase, and connect to decentralized applications with confidence.

What you’ll complete during Ledger Start

Ledger Start guides you through the essential steps: downloading Ledger Live, initializing your hardware wallet, writing down your recovery phrase, and confirming firmware and app installations. Each step is designed to keep your private keys offline and your assets under your control.

Step-by-step: Complete your Ledger Start

Follow these secure, recommended steps to initialize your device and protect your recovery credentials.

  1. Download Ledger Live: Get the latest official app for desktop or mobile from a verified Ledger source. Ledger Live manages accounts, apps, and firmware updates.
  2. Initialize your device: Power on, choose to create a new wallet, and set a secure PIN directly on the device — not in any app or browser.
  3. Record your recovery phrase: Write down the recovery phrase on the physical card included in the package. Never store the phrase digitally or share it with anyone.
  4. Install apps and firmware: Use Ledger Live to install the appropriate blockchain apps for assets you will manage; confirm firmware updates when prompted.
  5. Verify accounts: Use the device to verify addresses shown in Ledger Live before receiving or sending funds.

Security & compliance guidance for Ledger Start

Strong security is the core of Ledger Start. Use only the official Ledger Live download link, never reveal your recovery phrase to support staff or websites, and verify firmware and app update prompts directly on your device screen.

Do

  • Keep recovery phrase offline and in a safe location.
  • Confirm addresses on the device screen before transacting.
  • Use Ledger Live for firmware and app updates only.

Don't

  • Share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
  • Enter the recovery phrase into a website, app, or cloud note.
  • Buy hardware wallets from untrusted resellers.

Integrations & supported networks

Ledger Start sets you up to securely manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and many other chains. Ledger Live integrates native device security with third-party interfaces for DeFi, NFT marketplaces, and staking services — always verify requests and addresses on your device before approving.

Support & next steps

If you need help during Ledger Start, use official support channels only. Ledger support can confirm legitimate procedures but will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN. For advanced integration and developer documentation, visit Ledger’s developer portal or enterprise pages.