Ledger.com/Start® - Secure Wallet Setup

Introduction

Welcome to Ledger, the industry-leading hardware wallet solution designed to secure your cryptocurrencies. Setting up your Ledger device properly is crucial to safeguarding your digital assets. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for securely initializing your device, managing your recovery phrase, and starting to handle your cryptocurrencies with confidence.

Ledger wallets combine robust security, ease of use, and advanced features. Following these instructions step-by-step ensures that your funds remain protected from digital threats, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live and official firmware updates from the official Ledger.com/Start page.

Step 1: Unboxing Your Ledger® Device

Contents Checklist

Inside the box of your Ledger hardware wallet, you should find:

Ledger hardware device.
USB cable for connecting to a computer or smartphone.
Recovery sheet to write down your 24-word recovery phrase.
User manual and warranty information.

Inspect the packaging carefully. If anything appears tampered with, do not proceed and contact Ledger support immediately.

Step 2: Connecting Your Ledger Device

Plug your Ledger device into your computer or mobile device using the included USB cable. The device will display a welcome screen prompting you to begin setup.

Tip: Always use the original USB cable to ensure proper connection and avoid errors during setup.

Step 3: Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application to manage your Ledger wallet and cryptocurrencies. To install Ledger Live:

Visit Ledger.com/Start.
Download Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile).
Install the software and launch the application.
Follow on-screen instructions to detect your Ledger device.

Step 4: Initializing Your Ledger Device

Once your device is detected, you have the option to:

Set up as a new wallet.
Restore from an existing recovery phrase.

For new users:

Select “Set up as new device”.
Create a secure PIN code, which will protect your device from unauthorized access.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase carefully on the supplied recovery sheet.

Important: Your recovery phrase is your ultimate backup. Anyone with access to it can control your funds. Keep it offline and secure.

Step 5: Security Best Practices

Securing your Ledger wallet requires attention to detail. Follow these best practices:

Never share your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone.
Store your recovery phrase in a safe, offline location.
Consider using a metal backup plate to protect your recovery phrase from fire or water damage.
Enable a passphrase for additional layer of security.

Tip: Avoid taking photos or storing your recovery phrase digitally, as this exposes your assets to hacking risks.

Step 6: Adding Cryptocurrencies

Once your Ledger wallet is secure, you can start adding cryptocurrencies:

Open Ledger Live and click “Receive”.
Select the cryptocurrency you wish to receive.
Copy the generated wallet address or scan the QR code.
Send funds from an exchange or another wallet to your Ledger address.

Step 7: Managing Your Digital Assets

Ledger Live offers a user-friendly interface for managing your digital assets. You can:

View real-time portfolio balances.
Track transaction history for all assets.
Integrate with decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and exchanges.
Set up notifications for incoming and outgoing transactions.

Step 8: Firmware Updates

Keeping your Ledger firmware up to date ensures maximum security:

Open Ledger Live and check for firmware updates.
Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
Do not disconnect your device during the update process.

Important: Interrupting a firmware update can damage your device. Make sure your device is fully charged or connected to a power source.

Step 9: Advanced Security Features

Ledger offers advanced features to further enhance security:

Passphrase protection: Adds an extra layer of security beyond your PIN.
Multiple accounts: Manage different wallets under a single Ledger device.
Recovery phrase verification: Periodically verify your recovery phrase to ensure it is accurate.

Tip: Enable all security features for maximum protection against theft or loss.

Step 10: Conclusion

Congratulations! Your Ledger wallet is now set up, secure, and ready to manage your digital assets. Always remember:

Keep your recovery phrase offline and secure.
Use a unique PIN and enable a passphrase.
Regularly update your firmware and Ledger Live software.
Use Ledger Live to manage your assets safely and efficiently.

By following these steps, your Ledger wallet will provide secure and reliable protection for your cryptocurrencies for years to come.