> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://startin-ledgercdn.mintlify.site/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Ledger.com/Start®| Getting Started — Ledger Support™ > Explore Ledger.com/start for practical guidance on preparing a Ledger hardware wallet, connecting compatible software, organizing accounts, and maintaining essential wallet security. # Ledger.com/start: A Complete Guide to Ledger Wallet Setup and Cryptocurrency Security Getting started with a hardware wallet is an important step for anyone who wants greater control over their cryptocurrency. Before managing digital assets, users should understand how to initialize their device, configure security settings, protect recovery information, and connect compatible wallet software. **Ledger.com/start** is the starting point associated with Ledger hardware wallet onboarding. Understanding the setup process can help new users become familiar with their device and learn how to manage supported cryptocurrency accounts responsibly. A successful wallet setup involves more than installing an application. It also requires careful attention to private-key protection, recovery backups, transaction verification, and online security. **Understanding Ledger.com/start** Ledger.com/start is associated with the initial setup experience for Ledger hardware wallets. It helps users begin preparing a compatible device and access information related to configuring their wallet environment. The setup instructions can vary depending on the Ledger model and available software version. Users should follow current guidance for their specific device rather than relying on outdated tutorials or instructions intended for another model. Before proceeding, always verify that the browser address is the genuine Ledger domain: `ledger.com`. Avoid unfamiliar websites that imitate Ledger branding or use similar-looking domain names. **Why Choose a Hardware Wallet?** A hardware wallet provides a dedicated environment for protecting cryptocurrency private keys and authorizing supported transactions. Unlike a typical software wallet, a Ledger device is designed to keep sensitive key material protected within the hardware environment. The companion application provides an interface for viewing accounts and preparing wallet operations. This arrangement gives users an additional security layer, but it does not eliminate every risk. Protecting recovery information, maintaining a secure computer, and checking transactions remain essential responsibilities. **Preparing for Ledger Wallet Setup** Before beginning the Ledger wallet setup process, prepare the following: * A compatible Ledger hardware wallet. * A trusted computer or supported mobile device. * The appropriate connection cable or supported connection method. * Access to Ledger's genuine website and trusted software resources. * A private location for recording and storing recovery information. Make sure your computer is maintained and avoid using unfamiliar devices for sensitive wallet operations. Taking a few minutes to prepare can make the configuration process easier to follow. **Connecting Your Ledger Hardware Wallet** Connect your Ledger device according to the instructions provided for its model. Once connected, follow the setup guidance and read the information displayed on the physical device. Depending on the model and configuration, you may be asked to complete several initialization steps. Do not approve unfamiliar prompts automatically. The physical hardware wallet is an important security checkpoint, so take time to understand each action before confirming it. **Installing Compatible Ledger Software** Ledger's companion software provides an interface for interacting with supported cryptocurrency accounts and hardware-wallet features. Obtain the application only through Ledger's verified website or an appropriate official application store. Avoid third-party download pages and unexpected installation links. After installation, follow the instructions for connecting and configuring your device. The software can help users review account information, manage supported assets, and prepare transactions, while the physical device plays an important role in sensitive authorization operations. **Creating a Secure Wallet Configuration** During initial configuration, users may be guided through creating a new wallet or following an appropriate recovery process for an existing wallet. New users should carefully follow the device instructions and understand the difference between creating a new wallet and restoring an existing one. If you are restoring an existing wallet, use only the correct recovery procedure and make sure you understand the security implications before proceeding. **Protecting Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase** The recovery phrase is one of the most important elements of a self-custody wallet. When a new wallet is created, the device may generate recovery information that can be used in a compatible recovery process if the original hardware becomes unavailable. Record the words accurately and keep the backup somewhere secure and private. Never store your recovery phrase in screenshots, email accounts, cloud drives, messaging applications, or ordinary computer documents. Most importantly, never share the complete recovery phrase with another person. Anyone who obtains it may be able to restore the associated wallet. **Setting a Strong Device PIN** A device PIN helps prevent unauthorized physical access to your Ledger hardware wallet. Choose a combination that is difficult for others to guess and keep it confidential. Avoid using obvious patterns, birthdays, or easily discovered personal information. Do not write your PIN alongside your recovery phrase or share it with someone claiming to provide technical support. **Managing Cryptocurrency Accounts With Ledger Software** After completing the initial setup, users can explore the available account-management features. Depending on supported assets and software capabilities, these features may include: * Adding supported cryptocurrency accounts. * Reviewing account balances. * Monitoring transaction history. * Installing supported blockchain applications. * Preparing cryptocurrency transfers. * Accessing available portfolio-management features. Users should understand that different cryptocurrencies may operate on different blockchain networks. Always check the selected asset and network before making a transaction. **Receiving Cryptocurrency Safely** Receiving digital assets requires attention to wallet addresses. Before sharing a receiving address, verify that it belongs to the intended account and corresponds to the correct cryptocurrency network. Where supported, use the physical Ledger device to verify important address information. For unfamiliar transfers, consider starting with a smaller test transaction when appropriate. This can help identify address or network mistakes before a larger transfer is attempted. **Reviewing Transactions Before Approval** Sending cryptocurrency requires careful verification because blockchain transactions may be irreversible after confirmation. Before approving a transaction, check the destination address, amount, asset, network, and applicable fees. Compare the details displayed on your Ledger hardware wallet with the transaction you intended to make. If the physical device displays information that differs from your intended transaction, do not approve it until you understand the discrepancy. **Recognizing Fake Ledger Websites** Phishing websites are a common risk in the cryptocurrency environment. Fraudulent pages may imitate Ledger's branding and attempt to persuade users to download unofficial software or disclose confidential wallet information. Be cautious with unexpected links, urgent security warnings, and messages claiming that your wallet requires immediate verification. Always check the complete website address before entering information or downloading an application. A familiar logo does not prove that a page is genuine. **Avoiding Fraudulent Support Requests** Scammers may pretend to be wallet specialists or customer-support representatives. They might claim that a device needs to be synchronized, that an account is restricted, or that recovery information is required to resolve an error. Never disclose your recovery phrase, PIN, or confidential credentials to unsolicited contacts. Do not give unknown individuals remote access to your computer. Use trusted documentation and verified support resources whenever assistance is necessary. **Keeping Your Ledger Wallet Updated** Wallet maintenance is an ongoing responsibility. Keep compatible software and your computer's operating system maintained according to trusted instructions. Review update information before installing new software or firmware. Only use verified update sources and avoid installation files supplied through private messages or unfamiliar websites. If an unexpected update request asks for your recovery phrase, stop and independently verify the request. **Common Ledger Wallet Setup Mistakes** New users can encounter avoidable problems by rushing through configuration or overlooking security instructions. Common mistakes include: * Downloading wallet software from unofficial websites. * Recording recovery information incorrectly. * Saving the recovery phrase digitally. * Sharing confidential information with unknown contacts. * Approving transactions without checking the physical device. * Selecting an incorrect cryptocurrency network. * Ignoring unexpected device warnings. Carefully reviewing each step can help prevent these mistakes and establish a more reliable wallet routine. **Building Long-Term Cryptocurrency Security Habits** Completing Ledger.com/start is only the beginning of responsible hardware-wallet management. Keep your physical device protected, store recovery information securely, and use trusted software sources. Review transaction details before approving operations and remain cautious when interacting with cryptocurrency-related websites. Avoid making security decisions under pressure. If an unexpected message asks you to act immediately, independently verify the request before proceeding. Consistent security habits can help users manage their digital assets with greater confidence and awareness. **Final Thoughts** Ledger.com/start provides a starting point for users preparing to configure a Ledger hardware wallet. The process introduces important areas of cryptocurrency management, including device initialization, compatible software, PIN protection, recovery backups, account organization, and transaction verification. Understanding these topics can make the initial setup easier to navigate and help users avoid common security mistakes. The most important responsibilities continue after setup: keep your recovery phrase private, verify transaction details directly on the physical device, use trusted software, and remain alert to phishing attempts. With careful preparation and consistent security practices, users can build a more organized approach to managing supported cryptocurrency assets through a Ledger hardware wallet. This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.