Before You Begin: What You'll Need
Proper preparation ensures a smooth and secure setup process for your Ledger device. Here's everything you need before starting:
What's in Your Ledger Box:
- Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
- USB-C cable (or micro-USB for older Nano S)
- Recovery sheet for writing your 24-word phrase
- Keychain strap (Nano X and Stax)
- Getting started guide
Additional Requirements:
- Computer or smartphone with internet connection
- Ledger Live application (download during setup)
- Pen for writing recovery phrase (never type it!)
- Private, secure location without cameras
- 30-45 minutes of uninterrupted time
Security First: Always purchase Ledger devices directly from Ledger.com or authorized resellers. Never buy used hardware wallets, as they may be compromised.
Ledger Nano S Plus
Essential Security
- USB-C connection
- Secure Element chip
- 100+ crypto assets
- Compact design
- 2 buttons for navigation
- No Bluetooth
Ledger Nano X
Mobile & Bluetooth
- Bluetooth & USB-C
- Secure Element chip
- 5,500+ crypto assets
- Large screen
- Mobile app support
- Battery powered
Ledger Stax
Premium Experience
- E-ink touch display
- Secure Element chip
- All supported assets
- Wireless charging
- Customizable covers
- Bluetooth & USB-C
Device Setup Process
Setup Flow Overview
1 Unbox and Verify Authenticity
When your Ledger arrives, check that the packaging is sealed and untampered. The device should show "Welcome to Ledger" or be completely blank. If the device shows any other message, it may be compromised.
2 Connect to Computer
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. For Nano X and Stax, you can also use Bluetooth for mobile setup.
3 Visit Ledger.com/start
Open your web browser and navigate to ledger.com/start. This official setup portal will detect your device and guide you through the process.
4 Choose Setup Option
Select "Configure as new device" if this is your first Ledger. If you're restoring from a recovery phrase, choose "Restore from recovery phrase" instead.
5 Set Device PIN
Create a secure PIN code (4-8 digits) that you'll use to unlock your device. The PIN protects against physical theft - the device wipes itself after 3 incorrect attempts.
Important: Never use a PIN that's easy to guess (1234, 0000, etc.). Choose a random combination and never share it with anyone. Ledger staff will never ask for your PIN.
Recovery Phrase: Your Master Key
The 24-word recovery phrase is the most critical security element of your Ledger device. It represents complete control over all your cryptocurrency assets.
Recovery Phrase Creation Process
1 Generate Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will generate a random 24-word sequence. This happens entirely on the device - the words are never transmitted online.
2 Write Down Carefully
Write each word in order on your recovery sheet. Double-check spelling and order - even one wrong word makes recovery impossible.
3 Verify Phrase
Your Ledger will ask you to re-enter several words to confirm you've written them correctly. This prevents transcription errors.
4 Secure Storage
Store your recovery sheet in multiple secure locations. Consider using a fireproof/waterproof safe or specialized metal backup solution.
Recovery Phrase Best Practices
Write, Don't Type
Never digitalize your recovery phrase. No photos, cloud storage, or typing into computers.
Never Share
Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your funds. Ledger will never ask for it.
Multiple Backups
Store copies in different secure locations to protect against loss or damage.
Secure Locations
Use safes, safety deposit boxes, or specialized metal backups for long-term storage.
Critical Security Warning: Your recovery phrase is more important than the Ledger device itself. If you lose both your device and recovery phrase, your funds are permanently lost. The recovery phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrencies.
Installing Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official companion application for managing your cryptocurrency assets with your Ledger device.
1 Download Ledger Live
Visit ledger.com/ledger-live and download the application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
2 Install and Launch
Run the installer and follow the setup wizard. The application will guide you through initial configuration.
3 Connect Your Ledger
Connect your Ledger device and unlock it with your PIN. Ledger Live will automatically detect your device.
4 Install Apps
Use the Manager in Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) onto your device.
5 Add Accounts
Create accounts for each cryptocurrency you want to manage. Ledger Live will discover your existing addresses.
Ledger Live Features
Portfolio Overview Live Prices
View all your cryptocurrency holdings in one dashboard with real-time price tracking and performance charts.
Secure Transactions
Send and receive cryptocurrencies with the security of hardware wallet confirmation for every transaction.
Built-in Exchange
Swap cryptocurrencies directly within Ledger Live through integrated exchange partners.
Staking Services
Earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies directly through your Ledger device.
Mobile App: Ledger Live is also available as a mobile app for iOS and Android, allowing you to manage your portfolio on the go (Nano X and Stax support Bluetooth connectivity).
Advanced Security Features
Secure Element Chip
Ledger devices use certified Secure Element chips (same technology as passports and credit cards) that are resistant to sophisticated physical attacks.
BOLOS Operating System
Ledger's proprietary operating system isolates each cryptocurrency app, preventing potential vulnerabilities from affecting your entire wallet.
Transaction Verification
Every transaction must be physically confirmed on the device screen and approved with button presses, preventing remote attacks.
Ledger Live Security
Ledger Live includes built-in malicious address database, phishing protection, and genuine check for your device.
Security Best Practices
- Always verify receiving addresses on your device screen
- Keep your device firmware updated
- Use a strong, unique PIN code
- Never share your recovery phrase with anyone
- Only install apps from Ledger's official Manager
- Enable passphrase feature for advanced security (optional)
- Regularly check for firmware updates
Phishing Awareness: Be extremely cautious of emails, messages, or websites claiming to be from Ledger support. Always navigate to Ledger.com directly and never click links in unsolicited communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you lose your Ledger device but have your recovery phrase, your funds remain completely safe. Simply purchase a new Ledger device, select "Restore from recovery phrase" during setup, and enter your 24-word phrase. All your accounts and funds will be restored exactly as they were.
Yes, you can use your Ledger device with any computer that has Ledger Live installed. Your private keys remain secure on the device, so it's safe to use with different computers. Your accounts and settings will sync across installations.
Firmware updates are managed through Ledger Live. Connect your device, go to the Manager tab, and follow the prompts if an update is available. Regular updates are crucial for security and new features.
Software wallets store private keys on internet-connected devices, making them vulnerable to malware and hacking. Ledger devices keep private keys in a secure, isolated hardware chip that never exposes them to computers or the internet, providing much higher security.
Ledger supports over 5,500 cryptocurrency assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and all ERC-20 tokens. Check the Ledger website for the complete supported assets list. New coins are regularly added through firmware updates.
No, it is not safe to purchase used Ledger devices. A previous owner may have tampered with the device or could have access to the recovery phrase. Always purchase new devices directly from Ledger.com or authorized resellers to ensure security.