Starting your journey into secure digital asset management begins here. Ledger hardware wallets are trusted by millions for safely storing cryptocurrencies offline. Whether you just unboxed your Ledger Nano X or Nano S Plus, this page will walk you through the essential steps to set up, activate, and secure your Ledger experience the right way.
Each Ledger package includes the device, a USB-C cable, recovery sheets, and a getting started leaflet. Before anything else, check that your package was not tampered with. Ledger devices are sealed in tamper-evident packaging. If the box appears damaged or pre-opened, do not proceed and contact Ledger Support immediately.
Use the included USB-C cable to connect your Ledger device to a computer or mobile phone (via OTG). Once connected, the device will light up and guide you through initial options on the screen. You’ll be prompted to either initialize a new wallet or restore an existing one using a recovery phrase.
If you’re new to Ledger, choose “Create a new wallet.” The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase — this is your **master key**. It’s the only backup of your private keys. Write it down carefully, in the correct order, using the provided recovery sheet. Never take a screenshot or store it digitally.
Your Ledger device will prompt you to create a secure 4 to 8-digit PIN. This adds a protective barrier in case your device is lost or stolen. Memorize your PIN and avoid using obvious combinations like "1234" or repeating digits. You’ll use this PIN every time you connect or unlock your device.
To interact with your wallet, download the official Ledger Live app from Ledger’s website. Do not download from third-party app stores. Ledger Live is your digital dashboard — from there, you can install apps, manage assets, check balances, and sign transactions securely via your hardware wallet.
Ledger devices support multiple cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more. To begin using a specific asset, install its corresponding app through Ledger Live. Then, add an account for that coin. You’ll now be able to receive, send, and view your holdings directly from the app.
To receive funds, click on “Receive” in Ledger Live. The app will display a wallet address and prompt you to confirm it on your device screen. Always double-check that the address matches. Confirm only if both displays are identical. This prevents malware from altering addresses on-screen.
Ledger never stores or has access to your recovery phrase. If you lose your device but still have your 24-word phrase, you can restore your funds on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. If you lose both, your crypto is permanently inaccessible. Consider using a secure fireproof backup like a metal recovery plate.
Beyond basic wallet features, Ledger Live offers staking, crypto purchasing, NFT support, and access to DeFi apps via Ledger's Discover section. These features let you grow your portfolio while maintaining custody of your keys. Unlike centralized exchanges, your assets remain under your full control.
Ledger regularly releases firmware updates to improve security and add features. You’ll be notified in Ledger Live when an update is available. Only perform updates when prompted by the official app. Make sure your device is connected and fully charged before proceeding.
You can use the same recovery phrase across multiple Ledger devices, effectively cloning your wallet. This is helpful for redundancy. However, ensure you never input your phrase into an online device or software wallet, as this defeats the purpose of using a hardware wallet in the first place.
By setting up your Ledger device, you’re joining a global movement to take financial control into your own hands. Whether you’re a long-term HODLer, active trader, or Web3 enthusiast, Ledger provides the tools to interact with the blockchain securely and independently.
This content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Always ensure that you are on the official Ledger domain before performing any setup or inputting information. Ledger does not have access to your funds or recovery phrases. The security of your assets depends entirely on how securely you manage your credentials.