The Five Pillars of the **Official Ledger Wallet Setup**
Phase 1: Unboxing, Trust, and the **Ledger.com/Start** Gateway
When you first receive your Ledger device, inspect the packaging immediately. Look for any signs of tampering, such as opened seals or pre-scratched security codes. If anything looks amiss, do not use the device and contact Ledger support. The integrity of the physical package is the first layer of your **hardware wallet security**. Next, navigate directly to **Ledger.com/Start**. This official URL is your secure starting point, which redirects you to download the **Ledger Live** application—the required software interface for your device.
The **Ledger Live** application must be downloaded only from the official source linked by **Ledger.com/Start**. This prevents malicious actors from tricking you into installing compromised software. Once installed, launch the application and connect your device. The software will guide you through confirming that your device has no **recovery phrase** pre-loaded. A brand-new device should never have a seed phrase already printed or displayed; if it does, it is compromised. This digital verification is critical to the **Official Ledger Wallet Setup**.
Phase 2: Setting the Secure **PIN Code** on Your **Hardware Wallet**
Your Ledger device will prompt you to choose a **PIN code** (4 to 8 digits). This PIN is the daily access code to unlock your device and authorize transactions. **Crucially, the PIN is entered entirely on the Ledger hardware wallet screen using the physical buttons**, not your computer keyboard. This process is engineered for maximum **hardware wallet security**, making it immune to keylogging software on your PC.
Select a strong PIN—avoid birthdays, simple sequences (1234), or repetitions. You will enter the PIN twice to confirm. The PIN protects your **digital assets** from physical theft; if your device is stolen, the thief cannot access the keys without this PIN. A correct **Official Ledger Wallet Setup** means treating this PIN as your primary physical lock. If you enter the PIN incorrectly three times, the device will permanently wipe itself, forcing you to rely solely on your **24-word recovery phrase** for restoration.
Remember, the PIN is your shield against unauthorized access during day-to-day use. This step, facilitated through the guidance provided after visiting **Ledger.com/Start**, is fundamental. Always double-check your entry on the small screen before confirming.
Phase 3: Generating and Securing the **24-Word Recovery Phrase**
THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP. The **recovery phrase** (or **seed phrase**) is the master key to your **digital assets**.
Your Ledger device will now display a sequence of **24 words** one by one. You **must** transcribe these **24 words** onto the provided paper recovery sheets (or metal backup). **Never** digitally store this phrase. This includes taking photos, saving it to a computer file, or storing it in cloud services. Any digital copy compromises the core tenet of **hardware wallet security**.
Write clearly and verify the spelling of every single word. The order matters immensely, so number each word from 1 to 24. This **24-word recovery phrase** is the one and only way to restore your **digital assets** if your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or upgraded. It controls everything your device controls. This physical transcription and offline storage is the essence of self-custody as taught by the **Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide**.
After recording the sequence, your device will prompt you to confirm random words (e.g., "What is word #15?"). Use the device buttons to correctly select the word from your transcription. This confirmation step is mandatory before the setup is considered complete and verifies the success of your **Official Ledger Wallet Setup**. Secure your paper sheet immediately in a location known only to you—a safe deposit box, a fireproof safe, or a secure hidden location.