Lèdger.com/Start® — Getting™ Started | Ledger®

A Practical, Secure Introduction to Managing Digital Assets

Entering the world of digital assets can feel complex, but Ledger® is designed to make security-first ownership accessible from day one. This guide presents a clear, presentation-style overview of how to get started with Ledger® devices, focusing on setup, safety principles, daily use, and long-term best practices. Whether you’re new to crypto or transitioning from software wallets, this content is written to help you begin with confidence.

1. What Ledger® Is and Why It Matters

Ledger® is a hardware-based solution for managing digital assets securely. Unlike online or mobile wallets that store private keys on internet-connected devices, Ledger® keeps sensitive information isolated within a secure element chip. This separation dramatically reduces exposure to online threats such as phishing, malware, or unauthorized access.

Key value points:

  • Offline storage of private keys
  • Verification of transactions on a trusted screen
  • Support for multiple digital assets and networks
  • Designed for long-term ownership and control

Ledger® places you in full control—your assets remain yours, without relying on third parties.

2. Getting Started: What You Need

Before beginning setup, prepare the essentials:

  • A Ledger® hardware device
  • A desktop computer or smartphone you trust
  • A stable internet connection (for installation only)
  • A private, quiet space for initial configuration

Security begins with your environment. Avoid public spaces or shared computers when setting up your device for the first time.

3. Initial Device Setup (High-Level Overview)

When you connect your Ledger® device for the first time, you’ll be guided through a structured onboarding process.

Setup flow overview:

  1. Power on and choose your preferences
  2. Create a unique PIN code
  3. Generate a recovery phrase
  4. Confirm the recovery phrase
  5. Install Ledger Live™

Each step is designed to ensure that only you can access your assets.

Important: The recovery phrase is the single most important element of your wallet. Anyone who has it can control your assets.

4. Understanding the Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase (sometimes called a secret phrase) is a series of words generated by the device. It acts as a master backup that can restore your wallet if your device is lost, damaged, or replaced.

Best practices for recovery phrase safety:

  • Write it down by hand
  • Never store it digitally
  • Never share it with anyone
  • Keep it offline and hidden
  • Consider a secure backup strategy

Ledger® will never ask for your recovery phrase. Any request for it is a scam.

5. Using Ledger Live™ for Daily Management

Ledger Live™ is the companion application that allows you to manage accounts, install apps, view balances, and initiate transactions.

With Ledger Live™, you can:

  • Add and manage multiple asset accounts
  • Send and receive digital assets securely
  • Monitor portfolio performance
  • Update device firmware
  • Access supported services directly

All transactions must be physically confirmed on your Ledger® device, ensuring nothing happens without your approval.

6. Making Your First Transaction

After setup, you can receive assets by generating a verified address through Ledger Live™. Always confirm addresses on your device screen before sharing them.

When sending assets:

  • Review transaction details carefully
  • Confirm the recipient address
  • Approve the transaction on-device

This verification step protects against address manipulation and unauthorized transfers.

7. Long-Term Security Habits

Owning digital assets is not just about setup—it’s about consistent habits.

Recommended practices:

  • Keep your device firmware updated
  • Verify transaction details every time
  • Use official software only
  • Store your recovery phrase securely
  • Stay informed about common scams

Security is a process, not a one-time action.

8. Expanding Your Experience

As you become more comfortable, Ledger® supports a wide ecosystem of networks and applications. From managing multiple wallets to interacting with decentralized platforms, your device remains the security anchor for every action.

Ledger® grows with you—whether you’re holding long-term, exploring new networks, or managing multiple accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need technical knowledge to use Ledger®?

No. Ledger® is designed for beginners and experienced users alike, with guided setup and clear on-screen confirmations.

2. Can I use Ledger® on more than one computer?

Yes. You can connect your device to multiple computers. Your assets remain secured by the device and recovery phrase.

3. What happens if my Ledger® device is lost?

You can restore access to your assets using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger® device.

4. Is Ledger Live™ required to use Ledger®?

Ledger Live™ is the primary management tool, but your assets are stored on the blockchain, not in the app itself.

5. How often should I update my device?

Update firmware and software whenever official updates are released to benefit from security and performance improvements.

Final Thoughts

Starting with Ledger® means choosing ownership, transparency, and security from the beginning. By following proper setup steps and adopting strong habits, you build a foundation that supports safe digital asset management today and into the future.

Ledger® doesn’t just store assets—it empowers you to manage them with confidence.