Welcome to the official Ledger hardware wallet setup guide. This step-by-step walkthrough will help you safely set up, initialize, and use your Ledger device to manage and protect your cryptocurrencies. Whether you’re using a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or another model, follow these instructions carefully to ensure a secure experience.
1. Unboxing and Inspecting Your Device
Carefully open your Ledger wallet box and verify that the packaging is sealed and untampered with. Inside the box, you should find:
The Ledger hardware wallet device
A USB cable for connecting the device
A recovery sheet (to write down your recovery phrase)
Instructions and possibly a keychain or accessories
Do not use the device if the seal is broken or if anything seems suspicious. Use a different computer or contact support immediately if you suspect tampering.
2. Install the Ledger Software (Ledger Live)
Ledger devices are managed using an application called Ledger Live. This software allows you to install crypto apps, check balances, and manage your assets securely.
Install the Ledger Live application on your computer or mobile device.
Open the application and follow the on-screen prompts to begin device setup.
Ensure that you're downloading the official version from the Ledger company and never from third-party sources.
3. Set Up as a New Device
Connect your Ledger device using the included cable.
Turn on the device by pressing its buttons.
Choose “Set up as new device” when prompted.
Create a secure 4- to 8-digit PIN code using the device buttons.
Note: Your PIN code is only stored on the device. If you forget it, you'll need your recovery phrase to reset the device.
4. Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
After creating your PIN, your Ledger device will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the only way to recover access to your wallet if your device is lost or damaged.
Write down each word in the exact order on the provided recovery sheet.
Verify all 24 words carefully and confirm them using the device.
Store the recovery sheet in a secure, offline location such as a safe or vault.
Important: Never store your recovery phrase digitally. Avoid taking photos or typing it into any computer or phone.
5. Install Cryptocurrency Apps
Once the device is set up, you can install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. This is done via the Ledger software.
Open the software and access the "Manager" section.
Choose the coins you want to install (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
Approve the installation from your device screen.
6. Add Crypto Accounts
Each crypto asset needs an account to track balances and send/receive funds.
Go to the "Accounts" tab in the Ledger software.
Click “Add Account” and select the crypto asset.
Confirm the process using your Ledger device.
7. Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency
Once your accounts are set up, you can begin managing your assets.
To receive: Select the crypto account, click “Receive,” and verify the address on your device before using it.
To send: Select the account, click “Send,” enter the recipient’s address and amount, then confirm using your device.
8. Keep Your Wallet Secure
Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
Update your device firmware and software regularly for security patches.
Use only the official Ledger software for all operations.
Enable additional passphrase protection if you're an advanced user.
Tip: Treat your Ledger like a physical vault. If someone has physical or recovery phrase access, they can control your funds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if I lose my Ledger device? You can recover your assets using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device.
Can Ledger recover my recovery phrase? No. Only you have access to the recovery phrase. Ledger never stores or knows it.
Can I use Ledger for multiple cryptocurrencies? Yes. You can install and manage apps for many coins and tokens on one device.
