ledger start — official setup and security guide

Introduction to ledger start

The ledger start process is the first and most important interaction you have with a hardware wallet. When you complete a ledger start, you establish the device identity, generate and secure the recovery phrase, and verify firmware integrity. This ledger start introduction explains what to expect and why each step matters for long-term asset safety.

What ledger start means for users

A ledger start is the formal initialization of a Ledger hardware wallet (for example, Ledger Nano S or Ledger Nano X). During ledger start you create a PIN, generate a recovery phrase, and optionally update firmware. Treat the ledger start as an official security ceremony: record the recovery off-line, verify the device displays, and never share secret information during ledger start.

Preparing for a smooth ledger start

Preparing before the ledger start reduces risk. Ensure your computer is trust-worthy, download Ledger Live from the official ledger.com domain, and have a private, well-lit workspace for recording your recovery words.

During ledger start, never type recovery words into a computer or phone. Instead, write recovery words on the supplied card or a secure paper backup and store it in a safe, fire-resistant location.

Step-by-step ledger start procedure

Follow this official ledger start procedure to initialize your device correctly and securely.

1. Download Ledger Live from the official site and install; launch Ledger Live to begin the ledger start flow.
2. Connect your Ledger device and select “Set up as new device” to trigger the ledger start initialization.
3. Choose a PIN on the device when prompted; this PIN protects each ledger start from unauthorized physical access.
4. Write down the recovery phrase exactly as shown on the device; this recovery is created during ledger start and is the only fallback if the device is lost.
5. Confirm recovery words on the device to complete the ledger start verification step.
6. Optional: update device firmware through Ledger Live after verifying the device during ledger start.

Security best practices for every ledger start

Security is the core objective of a ledger start. Adopt these official practices every time you perform a ledger start.

Keep firmware up to date, verify authentic Ledger packaging before any ledger start, never disclose your recovery phrase during ledger start or afterwards, and prefer cold storage for large holdings after ledger start is complete.

Using Ledger Start with wallets and services

After a ledger start, connect your Ledger to software wallets like Ledger Live, MetaMask (via hardware wallet integration), or third-party custodial services that support Ledger devices. Each ledger start grants the device cryptographic keys which those applications can use for signing while your private keys never leave the device.

When connecting to dApps or exchanges, always confirm the transaction details on the device itself—this final check is part of a secure ledger start to transaction signing lifecycle.

Troubleshooting common ledger start issues

If the ledger start fails, take measured steps: ensure cables and ports are intact, reboot the host, reinstall Ledger Live from the official site, and try the ledger start again. If recovery phrase confirmation fails, never attempt to re-enter recovery from an untrusted source; instead start the ledger start process from scratch with a new device or contact Ledger support through official channels.

Avoid third-party recovery tools and never share recovery words during ledger start troubleshooting conversations.

Official resources to consult after ledger start

For the most current guidance after your ledger start, consult Ledger’s official documentation, firmware release notes, and support pages. Use only ledger.com and the Ledger Live application distributed there to maintain the integrity of your ledger start and ongoing device maintenance.

Where regulation applies, consider compliance and tax guidance in your jurisdiction after performing ledger start and transacting with on-chain assets.