Official setup guide for Ledger hardware wallets and Ledger Live — secure your crypto, manage assets, and learn best practices for recovery and safety.
What is Ledger?
Ledger is a leading maker of hardware wallets designed to give individuals full control of their cryptocurrencies. Ledger devices store private keys offline, isolating them from internet threats. Ledger Live is the companion desktop and mobile app that allows you to manage accounts, check balances, send and receive crypto, install apps on your device, and keep firmware up to date.
Why choose a Ledger hardware wallet?
Air-gapped security model: Private keys remain on the device and never leave it; signing happens on-device.
Wide asset support: Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of tokens across many blockchains using Ledger Live and third-party integrations.
Recovery and resilience: Restore your wallet on any compatible device using your recovery phrase.
Official updates and support: Ledger provides firmware updates, security fixes, and a supported ecosystem of apps and partners.
Before you start
Get these items ready before initializing your Ledger device:
Your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or compatible model) purchased from Ledger's official store or an authorized reseller.
A computer or smartphone with the latest version of Ledger Live installed from the official Ledger website.
A stable internet connection to download Ledger Live and firmware updates (firmware is verified during install).
A pen and the recovery sheet or a metal backup if you prefer a tamper-resistant option.
Step-by-step: Setting up your Ledger device
Install Ledger Live: Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and install the desktop or mobile app.
Open Ledger Live and choose Get started: Follow the on-screen prompts to set up a new device or restore an existing wallet.
Connect your Ledger device: Use the supplied USB cable or Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X) to connect your device to your computer or phone.
Choose your PIN: Pick a secure PIN directly on the device. This PIN protects access to the device and is never transmitted off-device.
Write down your recovery phrase: Ledger will show a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the provided card and store it offline in a safe place. This phrase is the only way to restore your funds if your device is lost or damaged.
Install crypto apps: In Ledger Live, install the apps you need for the blockchains you want to use (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). These are lightweight applications that enable account management and transaction signing.
Add accounts: Add your blockchain accounts in Ledger Live to view balances and manage funds.
Using Ledger Live — day-to-day actions
Receiving crypto
Select Receive in Ledger Live, choose the account, then verify the address displayed on your device matches the address shown in the app before sharing it with a sender.
Sending crypto
Create a transaction in Ledger Live, review the fee and amount, then confirm the transaction on your Ledger device. The device will display the transaction details for you to verify before signing.
Managing apps and firmware
Use Ledger Live to install or remove blockchain apps and to apply firmware updates. Always follow Ledger's official update prompts and verify the update signatures in the app.
Security best practices
Buy from official channels: Purchase only from Ledger's official store or authorized resellers to avoid tampered or counterfeit devices.
Never share your recovery phrase: Ledger staff will never ask for your recovery phrase. Keep it offline, preferably on a physical medium or a certified metal backup.
Use a strong PIN: Choose a PIN that’s unique and not easily guessable. Use passphrase protection if you understand how it works and want added security.
Beware of phishing: Always verify URLs and download Ledger Live from the official domain. Avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or messages claiming support.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated: Updates include important security improvements. Only update via official Ledger Live prompts.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues, try the following:
Reconnect the device and try a different USB cable or port. For Bluetooth models, ensure pairing is active and within range.
Restart Ledger Live and your computer or mobile device.
Ensure Ledger Live and your device firmware are up to date. Reinstall Ledger Live from the official site if necessary.
Consult the official Ledger Help Center or contact Ledger support — never share your recovery phrase when seeking help.
Frequently asked questions
Can I recover my wallet if I lose the Ledger device?
Yes. Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet on any compatible Ledger device or other wallets that support the same recovery standard.
Does Ledger hold my cryptocurrencies?
No — Ledger devices are non-custodial. You retain control of your private keys and funds. Ledger provides the hardware and software tools to securely manage them.
