Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup Guide

A comprehensive step-by-step guide to securely set up your new Ledger device and protect your cryptocurrency assets

1

Unbox and Verify Your Device

When you receive your Ledger device, carefully unbox it and inspect for any signs of tampering. Your package should contain:

  • Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X)
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheet
  • Keychain strap
  • Getting started booklet
Security Check: Ensure the holographic seal on the device is intact. If the seal appears broken or tampered with, do not use the device and contact Ledger Support immediately.
2

Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion application for your Ledger device. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official Ledger website at Ledger.com
  2. Navigate to the "Ledger Live" section
  3. Download the application for your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
  4. Install the application on your computer
Tip: Always download Ledger Live directly from the official Ledger website. Avoid third-party sources to prevent phishing attacks.
3

Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable and follow these steps:

  1. Follow the on-screen instructions on your Ledger device
  2. Choose "Configure as new device" if this is your first time setting up
  3. Your device will generate a unique set of private keys internally

The initialization process ensures that your device creates a secure environment for generating and storing your cryptographic keys.

4

Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical security step in the entire process. Your recovery phrase (also known as seed phrase) is a 24-word sequence that represents your private keys.

  1. Your Ledger device will display 24 words one by one on its screen
  2. Write these words down in the exact order they appear on your recovery sheet
  3. Double-check that you've copied all words correctly
Critical Security Rules:
  • Never digitize your recovery phrase - no photos, no cloud storage, no typing
  • Store multiple copies in secure, separate locations
  • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone
  • Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase
5

Set Up a PIN Code

After writing down your recovery phrase, you'll be prompted to set up a PIN code:

  1. Choose a PIN code between 4 and 8 digits
  2. Confirm your PIN by entering it a second time
  3. Remember this PIN - you'll need it every time you connect your device

The PIN code protects your device from physical access. After several incorrect PIN attempts, the device will reset itself, wiping all data.

6

Install Applications and Add Accounts

With your device initialized, you can now install applications for different cryptocurrencies:

  1. Open Ledger Live on your computer
  2. Navigate to the "Manager" tab
  3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device
  4. Browse and install applications for the cryptocurrencies you own
  5. Return to the "Accounts" tab to add accounts for your cryptocurrencies

Each cryptocurrency requires its own application on your Ledger device. You can install and remove applications as needed since your private keys remain secure on the device.

7

Receive and Send Cryptocurrencies

Now you're ready to manage your crypto assets securely:

To receive funds:

  1. In Ledger Live, select the account you want to receive to
  2. Click "Receive" and verify the address on your device screen
  3. Once verified, use this address to receive funds

To send funds:

  1. In Ledger Live, select the account and click "Send"
  2. Enter the recipient address and amount
  3. Verify all transaction details on your Ledger device screen
  4. Physically confirm the transaction by pressing both buttons on your device
Best Practice: Always verify receiving and sending addresses directly on your Ledger device screen to protect against malware that might alter addresses on your computer.

Your Crypto is Now Secure

Congratulations! You have successfully set up your Ledger hardware wallet. By following this guide, you've taken a crucial step toward securing your cryptocurrency assets. Remember to:

  • Keep your recovery phrase safe and offline
  • Regularly update your Ledger device firmware
  • Always verify transaction details on your device screen
  • Use strong, unique PIN codes

For additional security, consider using a Passphrase (25th word) feature for hidden accounts and enabling the auto-lock feature on your device.