LEDGER.COM/START® | GETTING STARTED

📦 Section 1: Initial Checks and Accessing the Official Software

Your journey into cold storage security begins with strict adherence to two critical security protocols: physical verification and exclusive use of official software.

1.1 Physical Verification of Your Ledger Device

Before connecting your new Ledger device, perform a thorough inspection of the packaging. Ledger devices are shipped with specific anti-tamper security features. Check the following:

• **Packaging Integrity:** Ensure the retail box or plastic wrap is intact and shows no signs of being opened, resealed, or damaged.
• **Contents Check:** Verify the presence of the device, USB cable, and the essential blank Recovery Sheet(s).
• **Device Condition:** New Ledger devices should display a welcome message (e.g., "Welcome" or "Set up as new device") upon initial connection, but they should **NEVER** display a pre-written Recovery Phrase or have a PIN pre-set.

If you suspect any tampering, **do not proceed**. Contact Ledger Support immediately.

1.2 Downloading the Official Ledger Live App

The **Ledger Live** application is the required and only secure software interface for your hardware wallet. Use only the official channels to download it:

1. **Manual URL Entry:** Open your browser and manually type the starting URL: https://www.ledger.com/start. This redirects to the verified download page.
2. **Select Platform:** Choose the appropriate version for your system (Desktop for Windows, macOS, or Linux; or the official App Store/Google Play for Mobile).
3. **Install and Launch:** Install the application. The use of the dedicated desktop app is highly recommended for maximum security isolation.

🔑 Section 2: Device Initialization — Genuine Check and PIN Setup

Connect your Ledger device via USB and open Ledger Live. The application will immediately guide you through the initial configuration steps, which include critical security checks.

2.1 The Mandatory Genuine Check

The first automated step performed by Ledger Live is the **Genuine Check**. This process uses a cryptographic challenge to verify that your Ledger hardware wallet contains the genuine Ledger operating system and Secure Element chip. This ensures the device is not a counterfeit and has not been compromised.

2.2 Setting the Device PIN Code

Your PIN code protects your device against unauthorized physical access. You must set a PIN of 4 to 8 digits directly on the Ledger device's screen. The PIN is entered using the physical buttons to navigate and confirm the numbers shown on the screen.

• **Memorability:** Choose a strong, yet memorable PIN.
• **Security:** Never write your PIN down near the device or store it digitally.
• **Three Tries:** Note that if the PIN is entered incorrectly three times, the device will be wiped clean (requiring recovery via the Recovery Phrase).

📜 Section 3: Generating and Securing Your Recovery Phrase (24 Words)

The Recovery Phrase (or seed phrase) is your master key—the absolute backup for all your cryptocurrency accounts managed by the Ledger. This process is the most security-sensitive step of the entire setup.

3.1 The Sacred Ritual of Seed Generation

1. **Create New Wallet:** Select the "Set up as new device" option in Ledger Live.
2. **Exclusive Display:** The 24 words of your Recovery Phrase will appear **ONLY on your Ledger device's trusted screen**, never on the computer monitor.
3. **Handwritten Backup:** Use the official Recovery Sheet(s). Write the words down clearly, precisely, and in the correct numerical order.
4. **Verification:** The Ledger device will prompt you to confirm a selection of words, forcing you to verify that your handwritten copy is accurate.

3.2 Secure Cold Storage for the Backup

Store your handwritten Recovery Sheet in a location that is secure against fire, water damage, and unauthorized access. This location should be separate and distant from the device itself.

💼 Section 4: Day-to-Day Management in Ledger Live

With your device initialized and backed up, Ledger Live becomes your secure dashboard for managing your portfolio of over 5,500 assets.

4.1 Installing Coin Applications

Use the 'Manager' tab in Ledger Live to install the required application (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana) onto your Ledger device. Once installed, you can proceed to the 'Accounts' tab to add and synchronize your specific accounts.

4.2 The Verification Imperative

The entire Ledger security model is built on **On-Device Verification**:

• **Receiving Funds:** Before sharing a receiving address, Ledger Live will display it, but you must physically confirm that the exact address matches the one scrolling across your Ledger device screen.
• **Sending Funds:** When sending, Ledger Live pushes the transaction details (recipient, amount, fee) to the device. You must **physically confirm** these details on the Ledger screen before pressing the button to sign.

This process guarantees that even if a virus changes the recipient address on your computer screen, your assets are protected because the true, malicious address will be revealed on the trusted Ledger screen.

✅ Section 5: Maintaining Security and Next Steps

You have successfully secured your digital assets. Ongoing security requires continuous vigilance:

1. **Regular Updates:** Use Ledger Live to keep both the application and your device firmware fully updated.
2. **Backup Integrity:** Periodically check on the secure location of your physical Recovery Sheet.
3. **Web3 Engagement:** Utilize Ledger Live's integrated 'Discover' section to safely access DeFi, staking, and NFT services, always enforcing hardware verification for complex smart contracts.

Welcome to secure self-custody. Ledger Live and your hardware wallet are your keys to navigating the decentralized world safely.