> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://us-ledger-cdn.mintlify.site/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Ledger.com/Start® — Getting™ Started | Ledger® [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) introduces hardware wallet essentials, helping users explore device features, wallet compatibility, recovery preparation, and digital asset protection. ![Gffg](https://mintcdn.com/us-ledger-cdn/4x4hCP-W2eD-PWt5/images/gffg.png?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=4x4hCP-W2eD-PWt5\&q=85\&s=36b061b9771d2183320acc7a5c3d13b3) # [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start): A Practical Guide to Preparing Your Ledger Wallet Setting up a hardware wallet is an important step toward managing digital assets with greater control over private keys. [**Ledger.com/start**](http://Ledger.com/start) is the starting point for users who want to initialize a Ledger device, access the appropriate software, and understand the basic steps involved in creating a secure wallet environment. A careful setup process helps users distinguish genuine instructions from misleading websites and understand the responsibilities that come with managing a hardware wallet. ## Why Begin With [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start)? [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) provides a starting point for accessing Ledger's official setup guidance. Rather than relying on random tutorials or links shared through messages, users can enter the address directly into their browser and follow the instructions provided for their particular device. The setup experience may differ depending on the Ledger model, operating system, and software version. Checking the relevant instructions before beginning helps avoid confusion and unnecessary installation steps. ## Preparing Your Device and Computer Before starting, choose a computer that you trust and make sure its operating system is compatible with your device and the required software. Prepare the following: * Your Ledger hardware wallet. * A compatible USB cable or supported connection method. * A computer with an updated operating system. * Internet access for obtaining official software. * A private place to record your recovery information. Avoid using unfamiliar computers or installing utilities from websites that imitate Ledger's branding. ## Installing and Exploring Ledger Wallet Software Follow the software instructions available through [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start). Ledger Live is Ledger's companion application for supported devices and provides an interface for managing compatible accounts and transactions. Download software only from an official Ledger source. Be cautious of sponsored search results, unexpected download links, and websites with addresses that resemble the genuine domain. Once the application is installed, follow the on-screen instructions that apply to your device. Do not assume that every Ledger model has identical setup steps or supports every feature. ## Initializing a New Ledger Device A new hardware wallet should be initialized by its owner. During genuine initialization, the device guides the user through the applicable security setup. Create a PIN directly on the hardware wallet according to the instructions displayed on the device. The PIN helps restrict access to the physical device, but it is not a replacement for the recovery phrase. If a device arrives with a PIN already configured or a recovery phrase supplied by another person, stop before using it. Consult Ledger's official guidance rather than accepting credentials provided by a seller or stranger. ## Understanding Your Recovery Phrase The recovery phrase is one of the most important parts of hardware wallet ownership. It is a sensitive backup that can restore access to the assets associated with the wallet. During initialization, follow the device's instructions to record the phrase accurately. Keep it private and store it securely offline, away from unauthorized access, damage, and loss. Never type your recovery phrase into [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start), Ledger Live, a website, a computer document, cloud storage, email, or a support form. Never share the complete phrase with anyone claiming to provide technical assistance. ## Adding Accounts and Understanding Asset Support After completing the required setup steps, you can explore the account-management features available through Ledger Live. Before adding or managing an asset, check whether the particular cryptocurrency and network are supported by your device and the current software version. Remember that a hardware wallet does not physically store cryptocurrency. It protects the private keys used to control assets recorded on their respective blockchains. The companion application provides an interface for viewing and managing supported accounts. ## Reviewing Transactions Carefully A connected wallet does not make every transaction request trustworthy. Before approving a supported operation, inspect the details displayed on your physical Ledger device. Check the recipient address, amount, and relevant network information. If the details do not match your intention, reject the operation. This review is especially important because blockchain transfers are generally difficult or impossible to reverse after confirmation. ## Avoiding Fake [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) Websites Fraudulent websites may imitate official setup pages and use similar-looking domain names. Some attempt to persuade users to enter their recovery phrase or install modified software. Use these precautions: * Type [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) directly into the browser. * Check the domain carefully before downloading anything. * Ignore unexpected requests to verify your wallet with a recovery phrase. * Do not install unknown browser extensions or remote-access tools. * Use official support resources when something appears unusual. ## Conclusion [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) provides a useful starting point for understanding the setup process for a Ledger hardware wallet. By preparing a compatible computer, using genuine software, initializing the device personally, and protecting recovery information offline, users can establish a more secure wallet environment. Take time to understand each step, follow instructions for your specific model, and verify transaction details on the physical device before approving them. This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.