Your Complete Guide to Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet
Welcome to the most secure way to protect your cryptocurrency. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of setting up your Ledger device, ensuring your digital assets are safe from hackers, phishing attempts, and unauthorized access.
Trusted Users Worldwide
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Offline Key Storage
Your private keys never leave the device. Protected by a secure chip certified against all known attack vectors.
You control your crypto. No third parties, no intermediaries—just you and your assets.
Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 5,500+ other cryptocurrencies all in one secure device.
Lost your device? No problem. Your 24-word recovery phrase lets you restore access to all your funds.
Follow these steps carefully to ensure your Ledger device is configured correctly
Carefully unbox your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X. Verify that the package is sealed and hasn't been tampered with. Connect your device to your computer using the provided USB cable.
Security Tip: Only purchase Ledger devices from the official Ledger website or authorized retailers. Never buy from third-party sellers on marketplaces.
Ledger Live is the official companion app for your hardware wallet. Visit Ledger.com/Start and download Ledger Live for your operating system:
Windows
10 or later
macOS
10.15 or later
Linux
Ubuntu 20.04+
Once downloaded, install the application and launch it. Mobile apps are also available for iOS and Android devices.
When you power on your Ledger for the first time, you'll be prompted to choose:
For first-time users, select "Set up as new device" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access. Use the device buttons to:
Warning: After 3 incorrect PIN attempts, your device will reset for security purposes. You'll need your recovery phrase to restore access.
This is the most critical step. Your device will display 24 words one at a time. Write them down in order on the Recovery Sheet provided in your Ledger package.
After writing down all 24 words, your device will ask you to confirm by selecting specific words from your phrase.
Pro Tip: Consider using a Cryptosteel capsule or metal backup plate for fire and water-resistant storage of your recovery phrase.
Open Ledger Live on your computer and follow the setup wizard:
You can add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies. Each crypto requires its dedicated app installed on your device.
To receive cryptocurrency:
Always verify: Make sure the address shown in Ledger Live matches exactly what's displayed on your device screen before sharing.
When you're ready to send crypto:
Critical: Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible. Always send a small test transaction first when using a new address.
Keep your device secure by installing firmware updates when prompted in Ledger Live. Updates add new features and security patches.
Always update through Ledger Live—never through third-party sources
Add an optional passphrase for an extra layer of security. This creates a completely separate wallet that's hidden from anyone who finds your 24 words.
Advanced feature—ensure you understand it before enabling
Ledger displays transaction details in human-readable format, protecting you from blind signing attacks common with other wallets.
Always review what you're signing on your device screen
Ledger Live automatically verifies your device is genuine and hasn't been tampered with when you first connect it.
This check happens automatically during setup
Troubleshooting guide for the most frequent setup problems
Solution:
Solution:
If you've entered the wrong PIN 3 times, your device will reset. You'll need to restore it using your 24-word recovery phrase. This is why it's crucial to store your recovery phrase securely.
Solution:
Order a new Ledger device and use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore all your accounts. Your crypto is safe as long as you have your recovery phrase.
Solution:
Solution:
Ledger devices have limited storage. Uninstall apps you're not currently using—this doesn't affect your crypto holdings. You can reinstall apps anytime, and your accounts will reappear.
Solution:
Your Ledger device stores your private keys offline and doesn't require internet. However, you need internet on your computer or phone to use Ledger Live for viewing balances and sending transactions.
Yes! You can connect your Ledger to any computer or phone with Ledger Live installed. Your accounts will appear on any device you connect to.
Your crypto is safe. Ledger uses industry-standard derivation paths (BIP39/BIP44). You can recover your wallet using your 24-word phrase with other compatible wallets.
No, your cryptocurrency exists on the blockchain. Your Ledger stores the private keys that prove ownership and allow you to sign transactions.
Update whenever Ledger Live notifies you of a new firmware release. Updates include security enhancements and new features. Firmware updates don't affect your accounts or require your recovery phrase.
Join millions of users worldwide who trust Ledger to protect their digital assets. Start your journey to complete crypto security today.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. Always verify information on the official Ledger website.
Ledger.com/Start Setup Guide © 2025 | Not affiliated with Ledger SAS