1. What you’ll need before you begin
Before unboxing your Ledger device, gather the essentials: a computer or mobile device with a supported browser, a stable internet connection, the original USB cable that came with your Ledger, and a quiet space where you can write down recovery information securely. Do not use public Wi‑Fi if you can avoid it when performing critical setup steps.
Hardware checklist
- Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X).
- Official USB cable and/or Bluetooth-capable device (for Nano X).
- Secure paper or metal backup for the recovery phrase.
- Optional: a password manager for storing non-sensitive setup notes.
Security-first note
You will be shown a recovery phrase during setup. Never enter this phrase on a computer or send it by email or messaging app. Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase.
2. Step-by-step setup (quick overview)
The high-level steps below are written to be clear and repeatable; follow the official on‑device prompts and the Ledger Live companion app for full verification steps.
Step 1 — Unbox and power on (<h3>)
Open the package and check the tamper-evident seals. Power on the device by connecting it to your computer or powering via its button sequence. Choose Initialize as new device when prompted (unless you are restoring a backup).
Step 2 — Choose a PIN (use a strong, memorable number)
The device will ask you to set a PIN. Choose something that is not easily guessable and that you can remember. The PIN is required to confirm transactions — treat it like a bank PIN.
Step 3 — Write down your recovery phrase
Your Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase (or 12, depending on model). Write each word on the supplied recovery sheet or on a durable metal backup. Verify the words in order. This phrase is the ultimate key to your funds — store it offline in at least two secure locations.
Restoration vs. new setup
If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous device, choose the restore option and enter the phrase carefully on the device when prompted.
3. Installing Ledger Live and adding accounts
Ledger Live is the companion application that lets you manage assets, install apps on the device, and view balances. Download Ledger Live from the official source and verify checksums where provided.
Install and connect
Install Ledger Live on your computer or mobile. Open it and follow the onboarding instructions to pair your device. When asked, confirm the action on your physical Ledger to authorize communication.
Add your first account
In Ledger Live, choose "Add account", select the cryptocurrency type (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum), and follow the prompts. Ledger Live will derive accounts from your recovery phrase — balances will appear once the network data is synchronized.
Tip
Use the Receive function to obtain your first address and send a small test amount to verify everything is correctly configured.
4. Daily usage and transaction flow
When you make a transaction, Ledger Live constructs the transaction and the device displays the details for your review. Always verify recipient addresses and amounts on the device screen before confirming with your PIN.
Common operations
- Receive: Share the generated address from the device / Ledger Live.
- Send: Verify the destination and confirm on the device.
- Swap: Use integrated swap partners in Ledger Live, but consider fees and counterparties.
Security reminder
Do not trust addresses displayed only in a browser popup — use the device screen as the single source of truth for confirmations.
5. Backup, recovery, and best practices
Backups are vital. If your device is lost or broken, the recovery phrase restores access. Keep backups offline and consider using a fireproof/waterproof metal backup for long-term storage.
Testing your backup
Test restore only with a secondary device or a new device using the restore procedure. Do not expose your main funds during a test — transfer a small amount if you need a live test.
Long-term storage
For large holdings, use multi-sig or custodial services in addition to hardware wallet strategies, and diversify backup locations to reduce single-point-of-failure risk.
Legal and family planning
Document who can access your funds in case of incapacity. Store access plans with a trusted lawyer or executor but never store the recovery phrase in an online document.
6. Troubleshooting (quick checklist)
- Device not recognized: try a different cable or USB port, and make sure the OS recognizes the device.
- PIN locked: follow the device prompts to reset — restoration requires your recovery phrase.
- Missing funds: ensure you’ve selected the correct account and that the blockchain network has synced.
When to contact support
Contact official Ledger support only via the official website if something unexpected happens. Never provide your recovery phrase to anyone claiming to be support.