Ledger.com/start — Official Getting Started Guide® H1

Introduction H2

Welcome to Ledger.com/start, the Official Getting Started Guide®. This guide is designed to walk you step-by-step through setting up your Ledger hardware device, establishing core security practices, and integrating with wallets and dApps. Throughout the document you'll see newword highlights for fresh terminology and Ledger.com/start references to connect you to the important landing resource.

Set up your Ledger device H3

Begin by unboxing your Ledger hardware, connecting it to a trusted computer, and following the device prompts. On first boot you will create a device PIN and generate your recovery phrase. Store that recovery phrase offline — it is the single most important secret. On screens you'll often see short instructions such as Confirm PIN and Write down recovery phrase.

Initial checklist H4

1. Open the box and verify seal.
2. Connect the device using the bundled cable.
3. Follow on-device prompts to set a PIN.
4. Back up the recovery phrase — use a secure medium (metal backup recommended).

Restoring from a recovery phrase H5

If you already have a recovery phrase, choose "Restore device" at the setup screen and enter the words exactly. After restoring, verify account balances carefully by checking transaction history against the blockchain explorer.

Security essentials and best practices H2

Security is the core purpose of using a Ledger device. Follow these essentials:

Protect the recovery phrase H3

Never store your recovery phrase in a digital file, image, email, or cloud storage. Instead use a stainless steel backup plate or paper stored in a bank deposit box. If someone gains this phrase, they can steal your assets without needing the physical device.

Keep firmware and apps updated

Ledger regularly releases firmware and app updates. These updates patch vulnerabilities and improve compatibility. When instructed by the official Ledger Live application or by documentation on Ledger.com/start, perform updates only in a safe environment.

Common attack types

Social engineering, phishing websites, and fake support requests are the most common. Always verify URLs and use bookmarks for important pages like Ledger.com/start rather than clicking links in emails.

Using Ledger with wallets and apps H2

Ledger devices work with many wallets and dApps. The typical flow:

1. Install the relevant cryptocurrency app on your Ledger device using Ledger Live.
2. Open the app on the device and connect it to the wallet interface (MetaMask, WalletConnect, etc.).
3. Confirm transactions on the device screen to sign them securely.

Ledger Live vs. third-party wallets

Ledger Live is Ledger’s official desktop and mobile app for device management, while third-party wallets may offer more features or token types. Both approaches can be secure if you confirm transaction details on the device and verify contract addresses manually when interacting with unfamiliar dApps.

Troubleshooting common issues H2

If the device won't power on, check the cable and try different USB ports. For connection or driver errors, reinstall Ledger Live and ensure the device is unlocked during the operation. If you see an unexpected prompt on the device (for example, a request to enter the recovery phrase), stop and contact official support.

Recovery and lost device

If your device is lost or stolen but you have your recovery phrase, get a new hardware wallet and restore using the phrase. If you suspect your phrase was exposed, immediately transfer your assets to a new wallet with a brand new phrase generated offline.

When to contact support

Reach out for hardware faults or transactions that appear in blockchain records but not in your ledger app. Use only official channels — do not trust random phone numbers or emails. The official domain to check is Ledger.com/start for guidance and links to official support.

Conclusion H2

This Official Getting Started Guide® at Ledger.com/start is intended to put you on a secure, confident path to self-custody. Remember the small, critical rules: protect the recovery phrase, update firmware from trusted sources, and always confirm on-device details before approving transactions.

The most valuable habit is simple — when in doubt, pause and consult the official guide at Ledger.com/start. Secure practices compound: what feels like a small extra step today can prevent a catastrophic loss tomorrow.