> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://eng-ledgercdn.mintlify.site/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started Explore the [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) experience with clear insights into hardware wallet features, device checks, account management, and secure storage principles. # [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start): A Practical Guide to Device Verification and Wallet Readiness ## Why Begin with [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start)? Preparing a hardware wallet involves more than connecting a device and choosing a PIN. It is an opportunity to understand how your wallet works, verify that your device is ready for use, and establish good security habits before managing digital assets. [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) provides a starting point for learning about device setup and accessing relevant instructions. Whether you are preparing a new hardware wallet or reviewing your existing setup, taking time to understand each stage can help prevent avoidable mistakes. This guide explains the important preparation steps, basic security concepts, and practical checks to consider when following [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start). ## Prepare Your Workspace Before Connecting Your Device A careful setup begins with a suitable environment. Choose a private workspace where you can concentrate without interruptions. Avoid public computers and shared devices when configuring a hardware wallet. Before proceeding with [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start), consider these preparations: * Use a trusted computer with an updated operating system. * Make sure your internet connection is secure. * Keep your hardware wallet and supplied accessories nearby. * Visit the intended website by checking the address carefully. * Avoid unexpected links received through emails, advertisements, or messages. These simple habits create a better foundation for the remaining setup process. ## Verify Your Ledger Device Device verification is an important part of hardware wallet preparation. Follow the instructions provided for your particular Ledger model and use the recommended verification process available through genuine Ledger resources. A device should be initialized by its owner. If a supposedly new wallet arrives with an existing PIN, an already-written recovery phrase, or instructions telling you to use someone else's recovery information, stop and consult official guidance. [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) can help users understand where to begin, but always follow the instructions that match the exact device in your possession. ## Understand the PIN and Recovery Phrase Two important security elements have different purposes. ### The Device PIN The PIN helps protect physical access to your hardware wallet. It is selected during device initialization and is generally required when unlocking the device. Choose a PIN that is difficult for others to guess. Avoid obvious combinations such as repeated digits or simple sequences. ### The Secret Recovery Phrase The Secret Recovery Phrase is a backup that can restore access to the wallet's associated private keys. It is extremely sensitive and should remain private. Write it down using the method recommended for your device. Keep the backup somewhere secure and protected from unauthorized access, damage, and loss. Never enter your recovery phrase into a website, online form, chat, or email. A legitimate support representative should not ask you to disclose it. ## Install and Understand the Supported Software Depending on your Ledger model and operating system, you may need compatible software to manage accounts and supported assets. Use Ledger's genuine resources to identify the appropriate application and installation instructions. Avoid unofficial downloads, modified installers, and software promoted through suspicious links. After installation, take time to understand the available sections. Account management, asset information, device settings, and transaction functions may be presented differently depending on the software version. The [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) journey should be treated as a learning process rather than a reason to rush through every screen. ## Learn to Review Transactions Carefully Before approving a transaction, examine its details. Pay particular attention to the recipient address, amount, and network. A computer display alone should not be treated as the final confirmation. Compare the information shown in the software with the details displayed on your hardware wallet. If something does not match, reject the transaction and investigate before proceeding. Cryptocurrency transactions are often irreversible, so careful review matters. ## Build a Routine for Long-Term Security Good wallet security depends on consistent habits. Keep your device software updated through trusted channels, protect your recovery phrase, and review account activity regularly. You should also be cautious of messages claiming that your wallet needs urgent verification. Fake support pages and impersonation attempts often try to create pressure so users make mistakes. When returning to [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start), independently verify the website address instead of trusting a link sent by an unknown person. ## Common Setup Mistakes to Avoid Some mistakes can be prevented with a little preparation: * Sharing recovery information with another person. * Downloading wallet software from unofficial sources. * Ignoring device warnings or unexpected prompts. * Approving transactions without checking their details. * Storing recovery backups in easily accessible online locations. * Assuming every Ledger model follows identical instructions. Understanding these risks makes the setup experience more predictable. ## Final Thoughts on [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) A reliable hardware wallet routine begins with careful preparation, genuine software, and an understanding of essential security features. [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) can serve as a useful entry point for learning about device readiness and setup. Take each step at a comfortable pace, follow model-specific guidance, and keep your recovery phrase completely private. These practices help establish a more informed approach to managing digital assets. This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.