Get started with your Ledger hardware wallet — the world’s most trusted tool for securing your cryptocurrency. This guide walks you through setup, activation, and safe usage to help you confidently protect your digital assets.
Begin by carefully unboxing your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X. Ensure the box is sealed and the holographic sticker is intact. If the seal is broken, contact Ledger support before proceeding. Authentic devices are never preconfigured — if yours appears to have been used, do not continue setup.
Go to ledger.com/start — type it directly into your browser’s address bar to avoid phishing links. From here, you’ll find the official download links for Ledger Live, the secure app that manages your hardware wallet and assets.
Download and install Ledger Live for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). For mobile, use the official app on the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, open Ledger Live and allow it to update automatically to the latest version.
Open Ledger Live, and select “Set up a new device.” Follow the guided instructions on-screen. Choose your device model (Nano S Plus or Nano X), and connect it using the included USB cable or Bluetooth for Nano X. Keep your device connected throughout the process.
Next, choose a secure PIN code of 4–8 digits directly on your Ledger device. This PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized access. Never share it with anyone. Avoid simple combinations like “1234” or “0000.” Treat your PIN as your first layer of defense.
Your Ledger device will display 24 words — your recovery phrase. Write them down carefully on the recovery sheet provided in the box. This phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Never store it digitally or share it online.
Ledger will ask you to confirm the 24 words in the correct order. This ensures you’ve written them down correctly. Double-check every word — one misplaced letter could prevent future recovery.
Once your device is initialized, Ledger Live will prompt you to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to manage. For example, install the Bitcoin, Ethereum, or XRP apps. Each coin has its own app for secure transaction signing.
After app installation, add accounts for your coins within Ledger Live. This step links your device to your portfolio view. You can now monitor balances, send, and receive funds directly from Ledger Live while keeping private keys offline on your device.
Store your recovery phrase in a safe, offline location — such as a fireproof safe or metal backup plate. Never upload photos or text copies to cloud storage or email. Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your funds.
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates that enhance device security and add features. Check for updates through Ledger Live. Only update when prompted, and make sure you are on the official app version.
Ledger Live offers real-time portfolio tracking. View your holdings, transaction history, and live price charts. You can buy, swap, and stake certain cryptocurrencies directly within the app, with all transactions verified on your device for security.
To send crypto, click “Send” in Ledger Live, enter the recipient’s address, and confirm the transaction on your device. To receive, use your Ledger-generated address and verify it matches what appears on your device screen — this prevents address tampering.
Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase — not through email, phone, or social media. Always verify website URLs and use the official Ledger domain. Avoid fake Ledger Live downloads or browser extensions.
If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can recover your wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device. Simply choose “Restore from recovery phrase” during setup and enter your words in order.