Introduction — Why Ledger and cold storage matter

Ledger hardware wallets are designed to keep your private keys offline and isolated from internet threats. When paired with Ledger Live, they provide a secure environment for managing Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other assets. This guide reflects official setup practices and trusted operational steps to help you complete Ledger.com/Start confidently.

Before you begin

Collect the essentials: your sealed Ledger device, the supplied cable, a secure pen, and a private space to write your 24-word recovery seed. Ensure your computer or mobile device is up to date and you have stable internet only for downloading Ledger Live and firmware updates.

  • Purchase from an authorized Ledger reseller or Ledger.com.
  • Do not use a previously used or unsealed device.
  • Have a secondary secure location for storing your recovery seed.

Step-by-step: Initialize your Ledger device

  1. Go to Ledger.com/Start and download the official Ledger Live app for your platform.
  2. Install Ledger Live and open the application. When prompted, connect your Ledger device via the supplied cable and power it on.
  3. On the device, choose “Set up as new device.” You will be asked to create a PIN — choose a PIN you can remember but that others cannot guess.
  4. Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write each word down in the exact order on the provided recovery card. Verify words when the device requests confirmation.
  5. Return to Ledger Live to complete firmware verification and install required apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) using the Manager tab.
Ledger Live will perform authenticity and firmware checks — accept official prompts and do not bypass verification. Your keys never leave the device.

Best practices & operational security

Adopt these routines to maintain robust security over time:

  • Physical seed security: Store your 24-word seed offline in a fireproof, waterproof location. Consider a metal backup for long-term storage.
  • Never digitize the seed: No photos, no cloud backups, and never enter the seed on a computer or website.
  • Firmware updates: Only update firmware via Ledger Live when the device and app prompt you; verify signatures where provided.
  • Transaction verification: Always check transaction details on the device screen before approving — the device is the source of truth.
  • Separation of funds: Consider splitting holdings: a hot wallet for day-to-day use and Ledger cold storage for savings or long-term holdings.

Using Ledger Live — Manage, send, receive

Ledger Live is the companion application for adding accounts, viewing balances, and initiating transactions. When you send crypto, Ledger Live creates the transaction details but you must confirm on the Ledger device; this prevents remote tampering.

Quick checklist:
  • Install the coin application (e.g., Bitcoin) in Manager.
  • Add an account and sync addresses via your device.
  • Verify receiving addresses on the device screen before sharing.

Troubleshooting & support

If you encounter problems, use official resources. Avoid community-uploaded installers or unknown guides.

Closing summary

A correct setup via Ledger.com/Start and vigilant seed management are the foundations of secure self-custody. Follow firmware checks, keep software official, and maintain an offline, durable backup of your recovery phrase to ensure long-term access and protection for your assets. ⭐

Frequently asked questions

Q1: What if I lose my Ledger device?
Use your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible recovery tool to restore accounts. Without the seed, funds are unrecoverable.
Q2: Can Ledger.com/Start be used on mobile?
Yes. Ledger Live is available for iOS and Android; follow the same official onboarding flow and use Bluetooth where supported (Nano X).
Q3: Is my seed a private key?
The 24-word phrase cryptographically derives your private keys. It must be kept private and offline at all times.
Q4: Are Ledger devices hack-proof?
No device is invulnerable, but Ledger’s Secure Element and BOLOS OS significantly reduce attack surface. Operational security (seed handling, firmware, device purchase) is equally important.
Q5: Where can I verify Ledger Live?
Always download Ledger Live from ledger.com/ledger-live and verify signatures when available.