Set Up Your Ledger Device

Follow this step-by-step guide to securely set up your new Ledger hardware wallet and protect your cryptocurrencies.

Start Setup

Ledger Device Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X correctly and securely

1

Unbox and Connect Your Device

Carefully unbox your Ledger device and check that all components are present. Connect your device to your computer using the provided USB cable.

Note: Ensure you purchase your Ledger device only from the official Ledger website to avoid tampered devices.

2

Initialize Your Device

Turn on your Ledger device by pressing the button. Choose "Configure as new device" and set a PIN code. Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized access.

Warning: Never share your PIN with anyone. Ledger will never ask for your PIN.

3

Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write down these words on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order.

Critical: Never digitize your recovery phrase. Don't take photos or store it on any digital device. Anyone with access to your recovery phrase can access your funds.

4

Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

Your device will ask you to confirm several words from your recovery phrase to ensure you've written it down correctly. This step is crucial for verifying your backup.

Tip: Store your recovery sheet in a safe place, preferably in a fireproof and waterproof container.

5

Install Ledger Live

Download and install Ledger Live, the official software for managing your Ledger device. It's available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Ledger Live Installation
6

Add Crypto Accounts

Open Ledger Live and follow the instructions to add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. You'll need to install the appropriate apps on your Ledger device.

Note: Your crypto assets are stored on the blockchain, not on your Ledger device. The device stores your private keys that give you access to your assets.

7

Receive and Send Crypto

You're now ready to securely receive and send cryptocurrencies. Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen before confirming.

Explore Ledger Live's features like portfolio tracking, exchange integration, and staking options to make the most of your hardware wallet.

Download Ledger Live

Get the official software to manage your cryptocurrencies securely

Windows

Compatible with Windows 10+

Download

macOS

Compatible with macOS 10.14+

Download

Linux

Compatible with most distributions

Download

Security Best Practices

Follow these guidelines to ensure the highest security for your crypto assets

Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Store it securely offline and never digitize it.

Verify Transactions

Always verify transaction details on your Ledger device screen before confirming. This prevents malware from altering transactions.

Keep Firmware Updated

Regularly update your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live to benefit from the latest security enhancements.

Ledger Device Comparison

Choose the right Ledger device for your needs

Feature
Nano S Plus
Nano X
Screen Size
128 x 64 pixels
128 x 64 pixels
Connectivity
USB-C
USB-C & Bluetooth
Battery
No battery
Rechargeable battery
Apps Capacity
Up to 100 apps
Up to 100 apps
Mobile Support
With OTG cable
Bluetooth connectivity

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about setting up your Ledger device

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

If you lose your recovery phrase and your Ledger device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will permanently lose access to your cryptocurrencies. There is no way to recover your funds without the recovery phrase. This is why it's crucial to store your recovery phrase in a secure location and never share it with anyone.

Can I use my Ledger with multiple computers?

Yes, you can use your Ledger device with multiple computers. Simply install Ledger Live on each computer you want to use, and connect your device when you want to access your wallets. Your private keys remain securely stored on the device itself.

How often should I update my Ledger firmware?

You should update your Ledger firmware whenever a new version is available. Firmware updates often include important security enhancements, new features, and support for additional cryptocurrencies. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available.

What cryptocurrencies does Ledger support?

Ledger devices support over 1,800 cryptocurrencies and tokens including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dash, Zcash, and all ERC-20 tokens. The list of supported cryptocurrencies continues to grow with regular firmware updates. You can check the complete list on the Ledger website.

Can I recover my wallet if my Ledger is damaged?

Yes, you can recover your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or any other compatible hardware wallet. This is why it's crucial to keep your recovery phrase safe and secure. The recovery process will restore all your accounts and transaction history.