Official Site® Ledger.com/start — Secure Your Ledger Wallet

This is a user-created presentation template. Not affiliated with Ledger SAS. Always verify official resources at the real Ledger website before entering secrets.

Introduction

Hardware wallets are the most reliable way for individuals to keep full control of their cryptocurrency private keys. This short presentation explains practical steps to set up and secure a Ledger hardware wallet and includes the official setup link for reference: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Why use a hardware wallet?

A hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, making it far harder for remote attackers to steal funds. Unlike software wallets on a phone or desktop, hardware devices isolate signing operations so sensitive material never leaves the device. For official setup instructions visit: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Step 1 — Obtain a genuine device

Buy directly from the manufacturer's site or an authorized reseller. Tampered packaging or unknown sellers increase risk. Ledger’s official start portal is here: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Checklist before unboxing

Quick tip

If in doubt, do not connect the device; contact the vendor or consult the official start page: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Step 2 — Initial setup and PIN

Power up the device and follow on-screen prompts to set a secure PIN — choose a PIN you can remember but that isn't easily guessable. The official step-by-step setup walkthrough is available at: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Best practices for PINs

Avoid consecutive digits, repeated sequences, or birthdays. If you must write the PIN down temporarily, remove and securely destroy any copy after memorisation.

Step 3 — Recovery phrase (seed) security

Your recovery phrase (typically 24 words) is the ultimate backup to restore your wallet. Never share it and never enter it on a website. Store it offline in a waterproof and fireproof manner. Ledger’s official guidance: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Storage options

  1. Engrave on metal plates designed for seeds.
  2. Store a paper copy in a safe deposit box.
  3. Use geographically separated copies for redundancy.
Important warning

Never type your recovery phrase into a phone, computer, image, or cloud note. Ledger devices are designed so the device itself signs transactions without exposing the seed — do not defeat that protection.

Step 4 — Firmware and app updates

Keep the device firmware and the Ledger Live app updated. Updates often include security fixes. Always download Ledger Live and firmware updates via the official page: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Update safety

Verify update prompts on the device screen before approving. Do not accept updates initiated via unsolicited links or messages.

Step 5 — Defend against phishing and scams

Scammers will try to trick you into giving your recovery phrase or connecting to fake apps. Always navigate to Ledger’s official resources directly (do not follow random links). Official start point: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Common scam patterns

Step 6 — Advanced protections

Consider using a passphrase (25th word) for plausible deniability or multiple accounts. A passphrase adds complexity and must be remembered exactly. More on advanced features is available at: https://www.ledger.com/start.

Multi-signature and custody

For larger holdings, consider multi-signature setups or professional custody solutions. These reduce single-point-of-failure risk but add operational complexity.

Recovery and incident response

If your device is lost or stolen, you can restore funds using your recovery phrase on a new compatible device. If you suspect your seed was exposed, move funds to a new wallet immediately. Always reference official methods: https://www.ledger.com/start.