Complete Setup Guide for Your Ledger Device
Congratulations on choosing Ledger, the global leader in hardware wallets and security solutions for cryptocurrencies and blockchain applications. Your new Ledger device provides the highest level of security for your digital assets, isolating your private keys from internet-connected devices.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the initial setup process for your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X device. The entire process takes approximately 15-20 minutes and requires your Ledger device, the supplied USB cable, a computer with internet access, and the Ledger Live application.
Download Ledger Live
Visit Ledger.com to download Ledger Live, the official companion application for your device. Install it on your computer or mobile device to manage your crypto assets securely.
Initialize Your Device
Connect your Ledger device via USB. Choose "Set up as new device" and follow the on-screen instructions to configure your device with the latest firmware.
Create Your PIN Code
Select a PIN code between 4-8 digits. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access. You'll need to enter this PIN each time you connect your device.
Write Down Recovery Phrase
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words in exact order on your recovery sheet and store it in a secure location. Never digitize this phrase.
Confirm Recovery Phrase
Verify your recovery phrase by selecting the words in correct order when prompted. This ensures you've properly recorded your recovery phrase.
Install Crypto Applications
Use Ledger Live to install applications for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each crypto asset requires its own application on your Ledger device.
Ledger Device Comparison
Ledger offers multiple hardware wallet models to suit different needs. All devices provide the same enterprise-grade security but vary in features, connectivity, and supported assets.
Nano X
Bluetooth connectivity, larger screen, mobile compatibility, and support for 100+ applications.
Nano S Plus
Enhanced storage, USB-C connection, and support for 100+ applications at an affordable price.
Nano S
Original Ledger device, compact design, USB connection, and support for 3-20 applications.
Why Ledger is Trusted by Millions
Ledger hardware wallets incorporate a secure element chip, similar to those used in passports and credit cards, to provide military-grade protection for your private keys. This specialized hardware is designed to resist sophisticated attacks and tampering.
Secure Element Technology
Ledger devices use certified secure element chips (CC EAL5+ certified) that provide robust protection against physical and software attacks, ensuring your private keys never leave the device.
Comprehensive Asset Support
Manage over 1,800 cryptocurrencies and tokens including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and all ERC-20 tokens through the intuitive Ledger Live interface.
Regular Security Updates
Ledger continuously releases firmware updates to address potential vulnerabilities and add new features, ensuring your device maintains the highest security standards.
After Setup: Managing Your Crypto Portfolio
Once your Ledger device is set up, you can begin managing your cryptocurrency portfolio through Ledger Live. This application allows you to send and receive transactions, check portfolio balances, and explore additional services like staking and swapping.
To receive cryptocurrency, navigate to the "Receive" tab in Ledger Live, select the cryptocurrency, and verify the receiving address on your device screen before sharing it. Always confirm that the address shown on your device matches the one in Ledger Live.
When sending cryptocurrency, you'll need to verify and approve the transaction directly on your Ledger device. This physical confirmation ensures that even if your computer is compromised, your transactions remain secure.
For advanced security, consider enabling the passphrase feature (25th word) to create hidden wallets, or explore Ledger's integration with third-party wallets and DeFi applications while maintaining hardware-level security for your private keys.
Remember to regularly update your device firmware when notifications appear in Ledger Live, and never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger staff will never ask for this information. If you encounter any issues, visit our comprehensive support portal at support.ledger.com.