Getting started with your Ledger® hardware wallet is the most important step toward securing your digital assets. Whether you’ve purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus™ or Ledger Nano X™, proper setup ensures your cryptocurrencies remain safe from online threats. This comprehensive guide walks you through the essential steps to activate, configure, and begin using your Ledger device securely.

To begin, always visit the official setup page at Ledger.com/start. This is the only trusted source for downloading Ledger Live and accessing official instructions. Avoid using links from emails, third-party websites, or search ads to prevent phishing risks.

Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Ledger Device

When you receive your Ledger hardware wallet, inspect the packaging carefully. Ledger devices are built with advanced security features and do not come with pre-written recovery phrases. If you find a recovery phrase card already filled out, do not use the device and contact Ledger Support immediately.

Inside the box, you should find:

• Ledger hardware wallet
• USB cable
• Recovery phrase sheets
• Getting started guide

Once verified, proceed to the official setup page at Ledger.com/start to download Ledger Live.

Step 2: Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app used to manage your crypto assets, install apps, and monitor your portfolio. It is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Follow these steps:

1. Go to Ledger.com/start.
2. Select your device model.
3. Download Ledger Live for your operating system.
4. Install and open the application.

Ledger Live will guide you through a genuine device check to confirm your hardware wallet is authentic and secure.

Step 3: Initialize Your Device

After installing Ledger Live, you’ll need to initialize your Ledger device.

Set Up as New Device

If this is your first time using the wallet:

1. Power on the device.
2. Choose “Set up as new device.”
3. Create a secure PIN code (4–8 digits).
4. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase.

Your recovery phrase is the master key to your crypto assets. Store it offline in a secure location. Never take a photo of it, never store it digitally, and never share it with anyone.

Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase — not even support.

Step 4: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

The device will ask you to confirm your 24-word recovery phrase by selecting the words in the correct order. This ensures you have written it down accurately.

This phrase is critical. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can recover your funds using this phrase on a new Ledger device.

For detailed security tips and recovery guidance, refer again to the official instructions at Ledger.com/start.

Step 5: Install Crypto Apps

Once your device is initialized and verified, you can install cryptocurrency apps directly from Ledger Live.

1. Open Ledger Live.
2. Go to the “Manager” section.
3. Connect and unlock your device.
4. Install apps like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other supported cryptocurrencies.

Each crypto asset requires its own app installed on the device. Ledger devices support thousands of coins and tokens.

Step 6: Add Accounts and Start Transacting

After installing apps:

1. Navigate to “Accounts” in Ledger Live.
2. Click “Add Account.”
3. Select the cryptocurrency.
4. Confirm the action on your device.

You can now send and receive crypto securely. Every transaction must be physically verified by pressing buttons on your Ledger device, adding a powerful layer of protection against malware and online attacks.

Security Best Practices

Your Ledger device provides industry-leading hardware security, but following best practices is essential:

• Always access setup instructions via Ledger.com/start.
• Never share your 24-word recovery phrase.
• Beware of phishing emails pretending to be Ledger.
• Keep your Ledger Live app updated.
• Store your recovery phrase in a fireproof and waterproof location.

Ledger Support will never request your recovery phrase or PIN code.

Troubleshooting and Support

If you encounter issues during setup, Ledger provides detailed troubleshooting articles and official assistance through its support portal. Common issues include:

• Device not connecting
• PIN code forgotten
• Recovery phrase restoration
• Firmware updates

Always ensure you are using the official website and Ledger Live application to maintain maximum security.

Why Choose Ledger?

Ledger hardware wallets are designed with Secure Element chips and advanced cryptographic protection. Unlike software wallets, private keys never leave your device. This means your crypto remains protected even if your computer is compromised.

By following the secure setup process outlined above and using only official resources, you ensure complete control over your digital assets.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Ledger wallet properly is the foundation of crypto security. From verifying your device to safeguarding your recovery phrase, each step plays a critical role in protecting your investments.

To recap, always begin your journey using the official setup page, carefully follow on-screen instructions, and prioritize security at every stage.