Get Started with Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is the first step toward securing your crypto assets. Whether you purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or another Ledger device, the official starting point is Ledger.com/start. This guide walks you through the essential setup process, security best practices, and how to begin managing your digital assets safely.

Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Device

When you receive your Ledger device, ensure the packaging is intact and untampered. Ledger devices do not come with a pre-written recovery phrase. If you find a recovery sheet already filled out, do not use the device.

Inside the box, you’ll typically find:

The Ledger hardware wallet

A USB cable

Recovery sheets

Getting started instructions

Before proceeding, make sure you are using a secure computer and a private internet connection.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app used to manage your crypto assets. To avoid phishing scams, always download Ledger Live directly from the official website.

Ledger Live is available for:

Windows

macOS

Linux

iOS

Android

Once downloaded, install the application and open it. Choose the option to set up a new device if this is your first time using a Ledger wallet.

Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Device

After launching Ledger Live:

Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable.

Power it on by pressing the button.

Choose “Set up as new device” on the device screen.

You will then be prompted to create a PIN code. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized access. Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess but easy for you to remember. You’ll need to enter it each time you use your device.

Step 4: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

One of the most critical steps in the setup process is generating and recording your 24-word recovery phrase.

Your Ledger device will display 24 words, one at a time. Carefully write them down in the exact order on the recovery sheet provided. This phrase is the only way to recover your crypto if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Important security tips:

Never take a photo of your recovery phrase.

Never store it digitally.

Never share it with anyone.

Keep it in a secure, offline location.

After writing it down, the device will ask you to confirm selected words to ensure accuracy.

Step 5: Complete the Genuine Check

Ledger Live will perform a genuine check to verify that your device is authentic and secure. This process confirms that the secure element inside your Ledger hardware wallet is legitimate and has not been compromised.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete this verification. If the device passes the genuine check, you can proceed confidently.

Step 6: Install Crypto Apps

Ledger devices support thousands of cryptocurrencies. To manage a specific coin or token, you must install its corresponding app onto your device via Ledger Live.

Steps:

Open Ledger Live.

Navigate to the “Manager” tab.

Allow Ledger Manager on your device.

Browse available apps and install the ones you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).

Keep in mind that your device has limited storage space, but you can uninstall and reinstall apps without affecting your funds.

Step 7: Add Accounts in Ledger Live

After installing a crypto app:

Go to the “Accounts” section in Ledger Live.

Click “Add account.”

Select the cryptocurrency.

Open the corresponding app on your Ledger device.

Ledger Live will sync with the blockchain and create an account linked to your hardware wallet. You can now receive, send, and manage your crypto assets securely.

Step 8: Receive and Send Crypto

To receive crypto:

Open Ledger Live.

Select the account.

Click “Receive.”

Verify the address shown on both your computer and Ledger device screen.

Share the verified address with the sender.

To send crypto:

Click “Send.”

Enter the recipient’s address and amount.

Confirm transaction details on your Ledger device.

Approve the transaction physically using the device buttons.

All outgoing transactions must be physically confirmed on your Ledger device, adding a powerful layer of security.

Essential Security Best Practices

Using a Ledger device significantly enhances security, but safe habits are equally important:

Always access Ledger Live from official sources.

Keep your recovery phrase offline and secure.

Enable auto-lock on your device.

Beware of phishing emails claiming to be from Ledger.

Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any website.

Remember: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Troubleshooting and Support

If you encounter issues during setup:

Restart your device and Ledger Live.

Ensure your software is up to date.

Try a different USB cable or port.

For additional assistance, consult Ledger’s official support resources. Avoid third-party guides that request sensitive information.

You’re Ready to Secure Your Crypto

After completing these steps, your Ledger hardware wallet is fully set up and ready to protect your digital assets. By combining offline private key storage with physical transaction verification, Ledger devices provide industry-leading security for crypto holders.

Take your time during setup, follow security best practices carefully, and you’ll have a strong foundation for managing your cryptocurrency safely and confidently.