Setup Guide

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Your complete guide to setting up your new Ledger hardware wallet. Follow these simple steps to secure your cryptocurrencies with the world's leading hardware wallet.

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Complete Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and secure your cryptocurrencies

1

Unbox and Prepare Your Ledger

Check Your Package Contents

Carefully unbox your Ledger device and verify all components:

  • Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Nano S)
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheet (for 24-word phrase)
  • Keychain strap (Nano X) or lanyard
  • Getting started guide
Important: Check that your device is genuine. Look for intact packaging and verify your device using Ledger's genuine check when you connect it.
2

Connect and Power On

Physical Connection

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile device:

  1. For Nano X: Charge using USB-C cable or use Bluetooth with Ledger Live Mobile
  2. For Nano S/S Plus: Connect via USB cable to computer
  3. Power on your device by pressing the side button
Tip: For Nano X, ensure it's charged or connected to power source during setup.
3

Install Ledger Live

Download the Application

To communicate with your Ledger device, you need to install Ledger Live:

  • Visit ledger.com/ledger-live
  • Download Ledger Live for your operating system
  • Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions
Security Tip: Always download software directly from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious copies.
4

Initialize Your Device

Set Up as New Device

Follow the on-screen instructions in Ledger Live to set up your device:

  1. Choose "Configure as new device" on the screen
  2. Set up a PIN code (4-8 digits) for device security
  3. Confirm your PIN by entering it again
PIN Security: The PIN entry is randomized on your Ledger screen to prevent keyloggers from capturing it.
5

Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

The Most Critical Step

This step is essential for securing your funds. Your Ledger will generate a unique recovery phrase:

  1. Your Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase
  2. Write down each word in exact order on your recovery sheet
  3. Double-check that all words are spelled correctly and in the right sequence
  4. Confirm your recovery phrase by selecting words in correct order
Critical Warning: Never digitalize your recovery phrase. Don't take photos, store in cloud services, or type it on any device. Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your funds.
6

Start Using Your Ledger

Congratulations!

Your Ledger is now ready to use. Here's what you can do next:

  • Receive cryptocurrencies by generating receiving addresses in Ledger Live
  • Send funds by verifying transactions on your device screen
  • Explore Ledger Live features like portfolio tracking, swap, and stake
  • Access third-party services through Ledger's ecosystem
Next Steps: Consider installing apps for specific cryptocurrencies you want to manage. You can do this through the "Manager" section in Ledger Live.

What You'll Need

Ensure you have everything ready before starting the setup process

Computer or Smartphone

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android device with internet

USB Cable

The provided USB cable to connect your Ledger to computer

Recovery Sheet

Included recovery sheet for backing up your 24-word phrase

Time

Approximately 20-30 minutes for complete setup process

Get Ledger Live

Download the official Ledger Live application to manage your cryptocurrencies securely

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Windows
🍎

macOS
🐧

Linux
Download Ledger Live

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about setting up your Ledger

What if I lose my recovery phrase? +

If you lose your recovery phrase and your Ledger is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will permanently lose access to your funds. There is no way to recover cryptocurrencies without the recovery phrase. This is why it's critical to store your recovery phrase securely in multiple safe locations.

Can I use Ledger with mobile devices? +

Yes, you can use Ledger with Android devices using a USB OTG adapter. iOS support is available through Bluetooth with Ledger Nano X. For full functionality, we recommend using Ledger Live on a desktop computer.

What happens if I enter the wrong PIN multiple times? +

After three incorrect PIN attempts, your Ledger will wipe itself to protect against brute-force attacks. Don't worry - your funds are safe as long as you have your recovery phrase. You can restore your wallet using the recovery phrase and set a new PIN.

Do I need to update my Ledger firmware? +

Yes, it's important to keep your Ledger firmware updated. Updates include security improvements, new features, and support for additional cryptocurrencies. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available and guide you through the simple update process.