Welcome to your Ledger hardware wallet setup guide. Ledger devices are among the most secure and trusted options for protecting cryptocurrency assets. Whether you're using a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of getting started, setting up your wallet securely, and using Ledger Live to manage your assets.
Open the packaging and verify that your Ledger device is sealed and has not been tampered with. It should include the hardware wallet, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and a user guide. If you notice anything suspicious, do not proceed. Always ensure the product is genuine and untouched.
Visit the official Ledger setup page using a browser on your computer or phone. This will direct you to download the Ledger Live app, which is the official software interface for your device. Choose the correct version based on your operating system.
Ledger Live is the application you'll use to initialize your device, install apps, add accounts, and manage your crypto. Install it just like any standard application and launch it once the setup is complete.
Connect your Ledger wallet to your computer using the USB cable or Bluetooth (for mobile and Nano X). Ledger Live will guide you to initialize a new wallet. On your device, you'll follow instructions to:
Important: Write the 24 words in order and store them offline in a safe place. Never share this recovery phrase with anyone or enter it online. Ledger will never ask for it.
Once you've written down your recovery phrase, your device will ask you to confirm it word by word. This step ensures that you’ve written it correctly. If the phrase is lost or entered incorrectly, you may permanently lose access to your crypto.
After confirming your recovery phrase, Ledger Live will detect and verify your device. You'll be able to access your dashboard and begin using the wallet to manage your assets.
From the Ledger Live dashboard, you can install applications for each cryptocurrency you want to manage. For example, to store Bitcoin or Ethereum, you need to install the corresponding app onto your Ledger device.
After installing apps, go to “Accounts” in Ledger Live and select “Add Account.” Choose the crypto asset, and open the matching app on your device. Ledger Live will then sync and display your wallet address and balance.
You can now receive crypto into your Ledger wallet. Go to “Receive,” select your account, and verify the address both on Ledger Live and your physical device screen. Only send funds once you've confirmed the address is accurate.
To send crypto, go to “Send,” paste the destination address, and confirm the amount. You must approve the transaction directly on the Ledger device, adding a layer of physical security to every transfer.
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger using your 24-word recovery phrase. Always test recovery on a secondary device if possible, and store your recovery phrase securely—preferably in multiple secure locations.
Setting up your Ledger wallet through the official Ledger.com/start portal is the safest way to begin your crypto journey. From secure initialization to everyday transactions, Ledger puts you in complete control of your digital assets. Always follow best practices, avoid phishing scams, and keep your credentials private. With Ledger, your crypto is safeguarded by world-class security and a user-friendly experience.