Ledger.com/Start® — Starting Up Your Device

Quick table of contents

Before you start — essential checklist

Preparation reduces risk. Before you power on the device:

• Only use devices purchased new from an authorized retailer or the official store. Avoid second-hand hardware for security reasons.
• Use your personal, up-to-date computer or mobile device. Avoid public machines or unknown USB hubs during initial setup.
• Have a pen and the supplied recovery card or a metal backup plate ready — do not photograph the recovery phrase.
• Disable clipboard syncing or cloud backups while generating the recovery phrase if possible.
• Plan a secure storage location for your recovery phrase (fireproof safe or safety deposit box recommended).

Unboxing & physical inspection

Open the box and inspect the device and accessories: USB cable, recovery cards, quick start leaflet, and tamper seals. Check for visible signs of physical tampering or modification. If packaging looks altered or suspicious, stop and contact the vendor or support immediately.

Download Ledger Live (official app) & connect

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application used to manage accounts, install blockchain apps on your device, and perform firmware updates. Always download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official download page and verify the domain/URL before installing. Using the official app reduces the risk of fake or malicious software. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Firmware updates, PIN selection & recovery phrase

Firmware updates

Firmware is the device’s internal operating system. Ledger Live detects available OS/firmware updates and installs signed firmware through a verified process. Always perform firmware updates only via Ledger Live (or official Ledger instructions) and follow the on-device confirmations — the device itself is the final authority when confirming firmware authenticity. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Set your PIN

Choose a PIN that’s memorable to you but not easily guessed. PINs protect the device UI; enter the PIN only on the device screen (not on your computer). If you enter the wrong PIN multiple times, the device may introduce time delays or require a wipe-and-restore workflow for security.

Generating & recording your recovery phrase

When creating a new wallet, the device will generate a recovery phrase (commonly 24 words for Ledger). Write the words in exact order on the provided recovery card or a durable backup (metal plate). Store the phrase offline and in secure locations. Never photograph the seed or store it digitally. If you ever lose your device, the recovery phrase is the only reliable method to restore access. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Installing blockchain apps & managing accounts

Ledger devices require small blockchain-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) that you install via Ledger Live’s Manager. Each app consumes limited device storage, so install only the ones you use. Removing an app does not delete the accounts — funds are derived from the recovery phrase and can be recovered by reinstalling the app and restoring the account. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

1. Open Ledger Live → Manager. Connect and unlock your device.
2. Allow Ledger Live to access the device when it prompts on the device screen.
3. Install the apps for coins you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
4. Create accounts in Ledger Live for each app and test small transactions to confirm setup.

Always verify receiving addresses on the device screen before sending funds; do not rely solely on the computer display in case of host malware.

Mobile usage, Bluetooth, and pairing

Some Ledger models support Bluetooth pairing for mobile Ledger Live use. Only pair via the official Ledger Live mobile app and avoid pairing in suspicious environments. Keep your phone system software updated and avoid installing unknown apps that might attempt to intercept communications. If you suspect a compromised phone, use a direct USB connection on a trusted desktop for sensitive operations. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

dApps, WalletConnect, browser plugins & integrations

Ledger devices support third-party wallets and dApps via secure connectors (WalletConnect, browser integrations) that request transaction signatures from the hardware wallet. When interacting with dApps:

• Use only reputable dApps and connectors. Review community feedback and project reputation.
• When signing transactions, read and verify the full transaction details shown on the device screen — the device display is the single source of truth for what you are signing.
• Limit token approvals (don’t blindly grant unlimited allowance to smart contracts) and use revocation tools to remove old allowances when no longer needed.
• If a dApp asks for your recovery phrase or full private key, treat it as a scam and disconnect immediately.

Advanced topics: passphrases, Shamir, multi-sig & backup strategies

Power users may consider advanced protections:

• Passphrases: Add an extra secret word to create separate hidden wallets — powerful but must be stored securely off-device.
• Shamir / split backups: Some backup tools split a seed into multiple shares (threshold schemes). These reduce single-point failure but increase complexity in recovery.
• Multi-signature wallets: Requiring multiple devices/keys to sign a transaction lowers the risk of a single compromised device leading to loss.

Test any advanced recovery process in a controlled environment before entrusting large balances to it.

Troubleshooting & recovering access

Phishing, fake apps & how to stay safe

High-profile scams involve fake Ledger Live installers or malicious apps that imitate official tools to trick users into entering their seed phrases. Always:

• Download Ledger Live only from the official domain and verify download signatures where available. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Never enter your recovery phrase into any application or website. If you are asked, it is a scam — disconnect and report it. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Enable OS-level protections (anti-malware, app store protections) and keep your computer and phone patched.

Long-term security & inheritance planning

Managing long-term custody of crypto requires thought beyond the initial setup. Recommended practices:

• Keep multiple geographically separated backups of your recovery phrase, preferably using durable media (metal backup plates) to resist fire/water damage.
• Consider multi-signature setups and multiple devices for large balances to avoid single-point-of-failure risks.
• Create a clear, documented inheritance plan for trusted heirs or executors that covers who can access funds and how (do not include the seed in publicly accessible places).
• Periodically test a restore using a test device and a small test wallet to ensure your recovery procedures work as expected.

Final checklist before moving funds

• Ledger Live is downloaded from the official source and verified. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Device firmware is up to date and confirmed on device. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Recovery phrase is recorded offline and stored securely (not photographed or typed into a device). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• PIN set and remembered (not stored with the seed).
• Installed apps are only the ones you need; test with a small transaction first.