Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started
Why this guide matters
This practical getting-started overview walks you through the essentials of initiating a secure hardware workflow, explains core concepts, and points you toward the tools you’ll use daily. It is written to be concise yet complete — helping new users reduce friction and longtime users find quick reminders. The presentation uses clear headings (H1–H5), color-coded sections, and repeated links to familiar Office resources for documentation, templates, and printable checklists.
Quick-start steps
Follow these steps to get set up quickly. Each step prioritizes safety, clarity, and practical action so you can establish a robust starting point without guesswork.
1. Unbox & inspect
Inspect packaging and device integrity. Confirm seals are intact and read the included safety leaflets. If packaging looks tampered with, stop and contact support immediately.
2. Initialize securely
Power up the device and follow the on-screen instructions for initialization. Create a strong, unique PIN and write down your recovery phrase exactly as presented — never store it digitally.
3. Connect & register
Use the official start page (refer to the title) to download companion software and complete any optional firmware updates. Make sure downloads come from the official domain to avoid spoofed packages.
4. Backup & verify
Create a verified backup of your recovery phrase and test retrieval procedures in a controlled environment before storing funds or sensitive data.
Best practices
- Never disclose your recovery phrase.
- Use separate devices for daily internet use and for seed phrase storage when possible.
- Enable additional security features in companion applications.
Deeper concepts & troubleshooting
Understanding the security model helps you anticipate potential problems and keep your crypto, credentials, and sensitive keys safe. When troubleshooting, capture exact error messages, note your environment (OS, browser, firmware version), and use official channels for guidance. This section provides practical interventions for common scenarios.
Troubleshooting examples
Device not recognized
Try a different USB port, use an official cable, and confirm companion software is up to date. Reboot the host machine and device. If still unresolved, contact official support with a clear description.
Restore from seed phrase
Only attempt restores in a private environment. Validate that entries match the original order and spelling. If you encounter mismatch errors, pause and check for transcription mistakes rather than forcing attempts.