Ledger.com/Start

Your Complete Hardware Wallet Setup Guide

Welcome to Ledger

Secure Your Crypto Assets with Confidence

Welcome to the world of secure cryptocurrency management! A Ledger hardware wallet is a physical device designed to keep your digital assets safe from online threats, hackers, and malware. Unlike software wallets that store your private keys on internet-connected devices, Ledger hardware wallets keep your keys offline in a secure chip, providing military-grade protection for your investments.

Whether you own Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any of thousands of supported cryptocurrencies, this guide will walk you through every step of setting up your Ledger device, from unboxing to making your first secure transaction. Let's get started on your journey to complete crypto security!

💡 Pro Tip: Set aside 30-45 minutes in a quiet, private space to complete your setup without interruptions.

Quick Navigation

1Unboxing & Initial Setup2Setting Your PIN Code3Download Ledger Live4Recovery Phrase Backup5Adding Crypto Accounts6Send & Receive Crypto7Security Features8Firmware Updates9Troubleshooting
1

Unboxing & Initial Setup

What's in the Box?

  • ✓Your Ledger hardware wallet device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
  • ✓USB cable for connection and charging
  • ✓Recovery phrase sheets for writing down your backup
  • ✓Getting started leaflet and keychain (model dependent)

🚨 Security Check

Ensure the package is sealed and hasn't been tampered with. Never use a device if the packaging appears opened or if it came with a pre-filled recovery phrase. Ledger will never provide a pre-configured recovery phrase.

Initial Power-Up Steps

  1. 1Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable
  2. 2The device will power on automatically and display "Welcome" or the Ledger logo
  3. 3Follow the on-screen instructions using the device buttons to navigate
  4. 4Select "Set up as new device" when prompted (not "Restore from recovery phrase" unless you're recovering an existing wallet)
2

Setting Your PIN Code

Your PIN code is the first layer of security that protects your device from unauthorized physical access. Choose it carefully!

Creating a Strong PIN

  1. 1When prompted, press both buttons simultaneously to begin PIN creation
  2. 2Use the left/right buttons to select each digit, press both to confirm
  3. 3Choose a PIN between 4-8 digits (8 digits recommended for maximum security)
  4. 4After creating your PIN, you'll be asked to confirm it by entering it again

✅ Good PIN Practices

  • • Use 8 digits for maximum security
  • • Avoid obvious patterns (1234, 0000)
  • • Don't use birthdays or phone numbers
  • • Make it memorable but unique

⚠️ Important Notes

  • • 3 wrong attempts will reset device
  • • Write down your PIN separately
  • • Never share your PIN with anyone
  • • Keep it separate from recovery phrase
3

Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app that allows you to manage your crypto assets, install blockchain apps, and update your device firmware.

Installation Steps

  1. 1Visit the official website: ledger.com/start
  2. 2Click "Download Ledger Live" and select your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
  3. 3Run the installer file and follow the installation wizard
  4. 4Launch Ledger Live once installation is complete
  5. 5Select "Get started" and choose your Ledger device model
  6. 6Connect your device when prompted and enter your PIN

📱 Mobile App Available

Ledger Live is also available for iOS and Android devices. Download it from the official App Store or Google Play Store for on-the-go management.

🚨 Security Warning

Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start or official app stores. Phishing sites may distribute malware disguised as Ledger Live. Always verify the URL and publisher.

4

Recovery Phrase Backup

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto assets. This is the MOST IMPORTANT step in the setup process!

⚠️ CRITICAL INFORMATION

  • •Your recovery phrase is displayed ONLY ONCE during setup
  • •Anyone with this phrase can access ALL your crypto assets
  • •Ledger will NEVER ask for your recovery phrase
  • •Lost phrase = Lost access forever (no recovery possible)

Recording Your Recovery Phrase

  1. 1Your device will display "Write down your recovery phrase"
  2. 2Get the blank Recovery Phrase sheet from your Ledger box
  3. 3Write down each word in order (Word #1, Word #2, etc.) exactly as shown
  4. 4Use the device buttons to navigate through all 24 words
  5. 5Double-check every word for accuracy (spelling matters!)
  6. 6The device will ask you to confirm several words to verify your backup

✅ Best Practices

  • • Use the official Recovery sheet
  • • Write clearly in pen
  • • Create multiple backup copies
  • • Store in fireproof/waterproof container
  • • Consider a metal backup solution

❌ Never Do This

  • • Take a photo or screenshot
  • • Store digitally on any device
  • • Email or message to yourself
  • • Store in cloud services
  • • Share with anyone (even "support")

🏦 Storage Recommendations

Store your recovery phrase in a secure location like a safe, safety deposit box, or fireproof home safe. Consider keeping a second backup in a separate physical location for redundancy.

5

Adding Crypto Accounts

Now that your device is set up, it's time to add cryptocurrency accounts to start managing your digital assets.

Adding Your First Account

  1. 1In Ledger Live, click "Add account" or the "+" button
  2. 2Search and select the cryptocurrency you want to add (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)
  3. 3Ensure your Ledger device is connected and unlocked
  4. 4If prompted, install the corresponding app on your device (e.g., "Bitcoin app")
  5. 5Open the app on your device by pressing both buttons when it's highlighted
  6. 6Ledger Live will synchronize and create your account address
  7. 7Click "Add account" to finalize - your account is now ready to use!

💡 Supported Cryptocurrencies

Ledger supports over 5,500 different coins and tokens including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Litecoin (LTC), Cardano (ADA), Polkadot (DOT), and thousands of ERC-20 tokens.

✅ Pro Tip

You can create multiple accounts for the same cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin Account 1, Bitcoin Account 2) to organize your holdings or separate business and personal funds.

6

Send & Receive Transactions

📥 Receiving Crypto

  1. 1.Open Ledger Live and select the account to receive funds
  2. 2.Click "Receive" button
  3. 3.Connect and unlock your Ledger device
  4. 4.Open the relevant crypto app on device
  5. 5.Verify the address on device screen matches Ledger Live
  6. 6.Copy address or scan QR code to share with sender

📤 Sending Crypto

  1. 1.Click "Send" in your Ledger Live account
  2. 2.Enter recipient's address (copy/paste or scan QR)
  3. 3.Enter the amount to send
  4. 4.Select network fee (standard, fast, or custom)
  5. 5.Review transaction details carefully
  6. 6.Confirm on device by verifying ALL details
  7. 7.Press both buttons to approve and sign

🚨 Critical Transaction Safety Rules

  • •ALWAYS verify the recipient address on your device screen - malware can change addresses in Ledger Live
  • •Double-check the first and last characters of addresses
  • •Send a small test transaction first for large amounts
  • •Crypto transactions are irreversible - there's no "undo" button
  • •Never send crypto to the wrong network (e.g., ETH tokens to BTC address)

⚠️ Network Fees

All blockchain transactions require network fees (gas fees). These fees go to miners/validators, not Ledger. Higher fees = faster confirmation. Always ensure you have enough to cover fees.

7

Essential Security Features

Maximize your security by enabling these important features and following best practices.

🔐 Password Protection

Set a password in Ledger Live Settings → Security → Password Lock to protect your app from unauthorized access.

Note: This is separate from your device PIN

👁️ Display Address Verification

Always enable and use the "Verify on device" option to confirm addresses haven't been manipulated by malware.

This is your primary defense against clipboard attacks

🔄 Auto-Lock Timer

Enable auto-lock on your device (Settings → Security → Auto-lock) to automatically lock after a period of inactivity.

Recommended: 1-5 minutes

🚫 Blind Signing Protection

Some apps require "blind signing" for smart contracts. Only enable when necessary and understand what you're signing.

Found in app settings on device

🔔 Clear Signing

For Ethereum and other smart contract platforms, enable "Clear Signing" plugins to see transaction details clearly before approval.

Available in Ledger Live experimental features

📱 Trusted Computer Only

Only connect your Ledger to computers you own and trust. Public or shared computers may have malware.

Your device keeps keys safe even on compromised systems

🛡️ Security Golden Rules

  • • Never enter your recovery phrase in any software, website, or app
  • • Ledger Support will NEVER ask for your recovery phrase or PIN
  • • Always verify addresses and amounts on device screen before confirming
  • • Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live updated
  • • Be cautious of phishing emails and fake support channels
  • • Use the official Ledger website: ledger.com
8

Firmware Updates

Regular firmware updates ensure your device has the latest security patches and features. Ledger regularly releases updates to enhance security.

How to Update Firmware

  1. 1Open Ledger Live and go to "My Ledger" or "Manager" section
  2. 2Connect and unlock your Ledger device
  3. 3If an update is available, you'll see an "Update firmware" button
  4. 4Click the button and follow on-screen instructions
  5. 5Enter your PIN when prompted on the device
  6. 6Do NOT disconnect during update - the device will restart automatically
  7. 7Enter your PIN again after restart to complete the update

✅ Important Notes

  • • Updates are free and highly recommended for security
  • • Your recovery phrase remains valid - you don't need to write it again
  • • Your crypto assets remain safe during updates
  • • The process takes 5-10 minutes on average
  • • You may need to reinstall apps after major firmware updates

⚠️ Update Safety Tips

Ensure your computer is connected to stable power and internet. Never interrupt a firmware update. If the update fails, follow recovery instructions in Ledger Live - your funds are always safe as long as you have your recovery phrase.

9

Troubleshooting Common Issues

❓ Device Not Detected

  • •Try a different USB cable (use the official Ledger cable)
  • •Try a different USB port on your computer
  • •Restart Ledger Live and your device
  • •Update USB drivers (Windows users)
  • •Close other crypto wallet apps that might interfere

❓ Forgot PIN Code

  • •After 3 incorrect attempts, device will reset automatically
  • •Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet
  • •Set a new PIN during restoration process
  • •All your crypto is safe as long as you have your recovery phrase

❓ Transaction Pending Forever

  • •Check blockchain explorer for transaction status
  • •Network fees may be too low during high congestion
  • •Some blockchains take longer than others (Bitcoin: 10min - hours)
  • •Use 'Speed up transaction' feature in Ledger Live if available
  • •Be patient - transactions cannot be cancelled once broadcast

❓ Balance Not Showing

  • •Ensure you're connected to the internet
  • •Click 'Synchronize' button in Ledger Live
  • •Check if you're viewing the correct account
  • •Clear cache in Ledger Live (Settings → Help → Clear cache)
  • •Verify transaction confirmation on blockchain explorer

❓ Cannot Install Apps

  • •Ensure firmware is up to date
  • •Free up space by uninstalling unused apps
  • •Close the current app on your device before installing new ones
  • •Restart both device and Ledger Live
  • •Check your internet connection

❓ Lost or Damaged Device

  • •Your crypto is safe - it's stored on the blockchain, not the device
  • •Purchase a new Ledger device
  • •Select 'Restore from recovery phrase' during setup
  • •Enter your 24-word recovery phrase carefully
  • •All accounts and balances will be restored

📞 Need More Help?

Visit Ledger's official support center at support.ledger.com for comprehensive guides, video tutorials, and FAQs.

For support tickets, use the official Ledger Support page. Be aware that Ledger will NEVER reach out to you first via social media or ask for your recovery phrase.

Bing Webmaster Tools Integration

🔍 SEO Verification

This page includes Bing Webmaster verification code in the meta tags for search engine optimization and site verification purposes.

The verification code helps establish site ownership with Bing Search and enables access to valuable SEO tools, analytics, and indexing controls.

🎉 Congratulations! You're All Set

You've successfully set up your Ledger hardware wallet and taken a major step toward securing your cryptocurrency assets. Your private keys are now protected by industry-leading security technology.

🔐 Stay Secure

Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone, including "support" staff.

📚 Keep Learning

Visit Ledger Academy to learn more about crypto security and best practices.

🔄 Stay Updated

Regularly check for firmware updates to ensure maximum security.

Need assistance? Visit support.ledger.com for official help