Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Wallet Setup

Description & Purpose

Welcome to the official wallet setup guide for Ledger devices via Ledger.com/Start®. This guide is intended to walk you through each step—from unboxing your hardware to performing your first secure transaction. Our aim is to make the setup intuitive, safe, and resistant to errors or attacks. Using a hardware wallet correctly is crucial to protecting your digital assets. This document is designed for beginners and experienced users alike, emphasizing best practices, precautions, and clear instructions.

The setup process involves initializing the device, generating and safeguarding your recovery seed (also known as your mnemonic or seed phrase), installing appropriate currency apps, and securely transacting. Throughout, you will be prompted to verify addresses and sign operations directly on the hardware device, which ensures that even if your computer is compromised, your private keys never leave the secure element.

Unboxing & Verifying Authenticity

When your Ledger device arrives, inspect the packaging for any signs of tampering. Ledger uses advanced security seals and holograms to detect unauthorized opening. If the seal is broken, damaged, or looks suspicious, do **not** use the device or initialization instructions—contact the vendor or Ledger support directly.

Inside the box, you should find:

• The Ledger hardware device (e.g. Nano S, Nano X, or model variant)
• A USB cable (data & power compatible)
• A recovery seed card or sheet (for writing down the seed)
Quick start guide or user manual leaflet

Do not discard any accessory. Retain the recovery sheet and manual. The recovery sheet is your only backup to restore your wallet in case your device is lost, damaged, or stolen.

Initial Setup & Device Initialization

1. Connect your Ledger device via USB to your computer or mobile (if supported). 2. Open your web browser and go to Ledger.com/Start. The site will detect your operating system and prompt you to download the Ledger Live application (compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS). 3. Install Ledger Live and launch it. The application may request you to allow access to the device and update firmware—follow these prompts carefully. 4. In Ledger Live, choose “Initialize as new device” (unless you are restoring from an existing seed). 5. The device will prompt you to set a PIN. Choose a strong, non‑trivial PIN (avoid simple sequences or patterns). You will need to confirm it by reentering it. 6. After the PIN is accepted, the device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words) and display each word one by one. Write them down in order on the provided recovery sheet. Confirm each word when prompted.

**Important**: Do not take screenshots or store your recovery phrase digitally (in text files, photos, cloud storage, or email). Always store it offline in multiple secure locations (e.g. safe, lockbox). Access to anyone possessing this phrase gives full control over your funds.

Installing Currency Apps & Adding Accounts

Ledger devices support multiple blockchains via separate apps. In Ledger Live:

• Go to “Manager” and browse available currency apps (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
• Install only the apps you intend to use—each app occupies device memory. You can uninstall later if needed (without losing funds).
• After installation, go to “Accounts” and add the appropriate account for each currency you plan to transact in.

When viewing or using an account, always verify the address displayed in Ledger Live matches the address shown on your device's screen. This ensures no malicious software is intercepting or altering your address.

Receiving & Sending Transactions Safely

To **receive** funds, navigate to the appropriate account in Ledger Live and click “Receive.” The app will show an address; always confirm that the address shown matches exactly what is on your hardware device. Copy or QR‑code it. Use only this verified address for depositing funds.

To **send** funds:

• Select the account, click “Send.”
• Enter the recipient address and amount in the app interface.
• The transaction details will be shown on your hardware device. Confirm that the amount, recipient, and fees are correct before approving.

Never trust information shown only on the computer. Always read and confirm all transaction details directly on the device screen and press the physical buttons to approve or reject.

Security Best Practices & Maintenance

- Keep your Ledger Live application and device firmware updated at all times. Updates may contain security patches and improvements. - Never share your recovery phrase, under any circumstances. Ledger employees, support staff, or others will never ask you for it. - Use strong, unique passwords on associated services (email, exchange accounts, etc.). - Enable two‑factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. - Store your recovery sheet in a fireproof, waterproof, and preferably hidden safe or multiple physically separated secure locations. - Consider splitting your recovery phrase into parts stored separately (but ensure they can be recombined securely). - For long-term storage, keep the device offline (“cold storage”) until you need to transact. - Before sending large amounts, test with a small transaction first to confirm everything works as expected.

In the event your device is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can recover your funds using the recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or other compatible wallet. As long as your phrase remains secure, your funds are safe.

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

**Device not recognized?** Try a different USB cable (must support data). Use alternate USB ports. Ensure the device is powered on and unlocked.

**Firmware update failed?** Unplug the device, close Ledger Live, reopen, and retry the update. Follow on‑screen instructions.

**App install errors?** Some apps conflict in memory usage. Uninstall unused currency apps and retry.

**Address mismatch?** If the address shown on your computer does not match what’s on the device, cancel the operation. Do not proceed until resolved.

**Recovery confirmation fails?** If you enter seed words incorrectly, you may need to reset and start over. Always cross‑check each word carefully before confirming.

Advanced Tips & Additional Use Cases

- Use multiple independent wallets to separate funds by purpose (e.g. spending vs savings). - Explore using a “passphrase” extension (advanced users only) to derive hidden wallets—but understand the risks (losing the passphrase = losing access). - For professional or institutional use, consider multi‑signature arrangements or hardware wallet clusters. - Use your device only when needed—disconnect when idle. - Keep track of software/firmware release announcements via official Ledger channels (website, blog, verified social media).

Practice by making small test transactions, switching between currencies, and recovering via seed in a controlled environment. This builds confidence and avoids surprises in critical transfers.