Start with the source.
Then take it step by step.
When you are ready to set up a Ledger device, begin at Ledger.com/start. Typing the address yourself—or using a trusted bookmark—helps you avoid lookalike pages and unsolicited setup links. This page is an independent educational overview, not an official Ledger support page.
Before opening the setup experience, make a little room to focus. Use a computer or phone you trust, install current software from Ledger’s official website, and keep your device nearby. A hardware wallet is designed to keep private keys protected on the device; the companion app helps you view accounts and manage supported assets. Your recovery phrase is the backup that matters most.
Prepare before you connect
Check that the package and device look as expected, then follow the on-screen instructions provided by Ledger. If anything seems unusual, pause and consult the official help center rather than relying on a message, search ad, or stranger who offers to “activate” your wallet. A legitimate setup should never require you to disclose your recovery phrase to a person or enter it into a website.
Choose your PIN, protect your backup
During initialization, the device guides you through choosing a PIN and generating a recovery phrase. Create a PIN that is difficult for others to guess, and write each recovery word down exactly as shown, in the correct order. Keep that backup offline in a private, secure place. Do not photograph it, store it in cloud notes, or share it—even with someone claiming to be support. Anyone with the phrase may be able to control the assets associated with it.
Verify on the device, every time
Slow down when confirming addresses, account details, and transaction information. Compare important details on the hardware wallet’s own screen before approving. The app can make activity easier to read, but a careful check on the device is an essential habit. Start with a small test transfer if you are learning a new asset or network, and confirm the receiving address and network match.
Keep learning after setup
Wallet security is an ongoing practice, not a one-time checkbox. Keep software current through official channels, understand which networks and assets you are using, and be wary of urgency, giveaways, and requests to “validate” a wallet. If you are unsure, stop before signing anything and use official documentation to verify the next step.