> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://start-ledgercdn.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) brings together useful wallet information, helping readers understand device readiness, setup requirements, recovery options, and security basics. ![Guide](https://mintcdn.com/start-ledgercdn/IHFQQkMTnl1A9t7W/images/guide.png?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=IHFQQkMTnl1A9t7W\&q=85\&s=c1579bad8658f2c01724d4c97e1390f4) # [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start): The Smart Way to Prepare, Configure, and Secure Your Wallet Taking responsibility for cryptocurrency security begins with understanding the tools you use. A hardware wallet can help protect access to digital assets, but its benefits depend on correct initialization and careful everyday practices. For users preparing a Ledger device, [**Ledger.com/start**](http://Ledger.com/start) provides a useful place to begin learning about configuration, supported applications, recovery protection, and wallet management. This guide explores the important decisions to consider before and after setting up your device. ## Know Your Hardware Before Connecting It Start by identifying your Ledger device model. Hardware wallets can differ in their displays, connection methods, supported software, and available features. Understanding these differences helps you follow the correct instructions rather than relying on general advice that may not apply to your device. Open [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) directly in your browser and verify the address. Use genuine official resources when reviewing setup instructions or downloading supported applications. Before continuing, inspect your device and make sure it appears as expected. If you notice anything unusual, seek official guidance before entering sensitive information. ## Create a Safe Environment for Wallet Setup Your setup environment matters. Use a trusted computer or compatible mobile device, avoid public computers, and keep your recovery information away from other people. It is also helpful to close unnecessary browser tabs and avoid following instructions from unfamiliar websites while configuring the wallet. Keep the process simple: identify the model, review the instructions, connect the device using a supported method, and follow the prompts displayed on the hardware wallet. Do not rush through unfamiliar screens. Understanding each instruction is more important than completing setup quickly. ## Configure the Device and Establish Access Protection The initial configuration may ask you to create a PIN and complete other security steps. Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess and keep it private. Do not reuse an obvious combination or share the PIN with anyone. During initialization, your hardware wallet may generate a Secret Recovery Phrase. This phrase is separate from the PIN and has a different purpose. A new device should be initialized by its owner. Never rely on a PIN or recovery phrase supplied with a supposedly new device. If credentials are already present, stop and consult official instructions. ## Understand Why Recovery Information Matters Your Secret Recovery Phrase can restore access to the private keys associated with your wallet. This makes it one of the most important pieces of information you will manage. Record it accurately using the recommended offline method. Check each word and its order, then keep the backup in a secure place. Consider these essential rules: 1. Never enter the phrase into a website. 2. Never send it through email or messaging applications. 3. Do not store it in screenshots or cloud documents. 4. Do not share it with customer support. 5. Keep the backup protected from unauthorized access. [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) can introduce users to the recovery process, but the responsibility for protecting the phrase remains with the wallet owner. ## Install Only Compatible Software Once your device has been initialized, review the supported software options for your model. Download applications only from genuine official sources. After installation, take time to understand the interface. Depending on your device and supported software, you may be able to review accounts, supported assets, transaction history, and other management features. Check compatibility before attempting to use a particular service or cryptocurrency. Not every feature is available on every model. If your hardware wallet is not recognized, check the connection method, software version, and device compatibility before trying other troubleshooting steps. ## Understand the Importance of Transaction Details A hardware wallet is not a reason to approve transactions automatically. Every outgoing transfer should be reviewed carefully. Before signing, compare the recipient address, amount, network, and transaction fee with the information you intended to submit. Confirm the details on the physical device itself. If the displayed information differs from your intended transaction, reject it. This is particularly important when copying addresses or interacting with unfamiliar applications. Cryptocurrency transactions are generally irreversible after confirmation, so a careful review can help prevent costly errors. ## Protect Yourself From Fake Wallet Websites Fraudulent websites sometimes copy the appearance of genuine wallet services. Others use messages about account restrictions, urgent verification, or security updates to pressure users into revealing confidential information. Avoid clicking unexpected wallet-related links. Enter the website address yourself and verify that you are using a genuine source. Never provide your Secret Recovery Phrase to a support representative, website, or third-party application. A request for this information should be treated as a serious warning sign. ## Build a Better Long-Term Wallet Routine After completing the steps on [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start), maintain good security habits. Keep your software updated through trusted channels, store your recovery information safely, and review every transaction before approving it. If you change computers, replace a device, or need to troubleshoot a connection, follow the instructions relevant to your exact model. Regularly reviewing wallet security guidance can help you stay familiar with the features and precautions that matter. ## Final Thoughts Preparing a hardware wallet carefully can make cryptocurrency management easier to understand and more organized. [Ledger.com/start](http://Ledger.com/start) offers a starting point for learning about device initialization, software compatibility, recovery protection, and safe transaction approval. Take time to understand the process, use verified resources, and protect your recovery phrase. Strong everyday habits are an essential part of managing digital assets responsibly. This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.