Ledger.com/Start — Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

What you’ll need

• Your Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other supported model).
• The USB cable included in the box (or Bluetooth for supported models).
• A desktop or mobile device to run Ledger Live or access the web interface.
• Secure, offline materials to record your recovery phrase (paper and/or metal backup).

Unboxing & verification

Inspect the packaging for tamper evidence. Ledger ships devices with tamper-evident seals; if anything looks altered, contact Ledger support before proceeding. Verify the device model and ensure the included accessories are present.

Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app used to initialize devices, install coin apps, manage accounts, and perform firmware updates. Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website and verify checksums when available. Install the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or get the mobile app from official app stores.

Initial device setup

1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer or pair via Bluetooth for supported models.
2. Open Ledger Live and follow the on-screen prompts to begin setup.
3. Choose "Set up a new device" when asked, unless you are restoring from an existing recovery phrase.
4. The device will prompt you to choose a PIN. Select a secure PIN of sufficient length — avoid easily guessable numbers.
5. Your Ledger will display the recovery phrase (typically 24 words) one word at a time. Write each word down exactly in order — do not photograph or store this digitally.
6. Confirm the recovery phrase on the device when prompted by re-entering select words.

Important: The recovery phrase is the single most critical backup. Anyone who has it can control your funds. Keep it offline and secure.

Restore an existing wallet

If you already have a recovery phrase from another compatible wallet, choose the "Restore device" option in Ledger Live. Enter your mnemonic exactly. After restoring, verify account balances and addresses before importing significant funds.

Firmware updates

Ledger devices periodically receive firmware updates that patch vulnerabilities and add features. Ledger Live will notify you of available firmware updates. Only install firmware updates through Ledger Live and verify the process completes successfully. Do not accept firmware prompts from unofficial sources.

Installing coin apps & adding accounts

Ledger devices use apps to support different blockchains. In Ledger Live's Manager tab, install the apps for the coins you plan to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Each app consumes storage space on the device; install only what you need. After installing apps, add accounts in Ledger Live to view balances and transact.

Sending & receiving funds

To receive funds, open the account in Ledger Live and click "Receive". Ledger Live will show a receiving address — always verify that the same address appears on your Ledger device screen. To send funds, create the transaction in Ledger Live, review fees and details, and confirm the transaction by physically approving it on your Ledger device. The on-device review is your last defense against malware or host-side manipulation.

Passphrase & hidden wallets

Ledger supports optional passphrases which derive additional hidden wallets from your seed. A passphrase adds strong protection and plausible deniability: without the passphrase, the hidden wallet does not appear. Use passphrases carefully — if you lose the passphrase, you cannot recover the hidden wallet even with the seed.

Security best practices

• Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger support will never ask for it.
• Store recovery material offline and consider metal backups for durability.
• Confirm on-device addresses and transaction details before approving.
• Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date; verify official sources for downloads and announcements.
• Consider splitting large holdings across multiple devices or using multisig for higher security.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Device not detected: Try a different USB cable, port, or another computer. Ensure Ledger Live is allowed in firewall permissions.
• Restore problems: Double-check the recovery phrase spelling and order. If problems persist, try restoring on a different device model if available.
• App install failures: Free up device storage by removing unused apps, then retry installing the needed app via Manager.

Advanced workflows

For developers and advanced users, Ledger devices can be integrated with third-party wallets, used in multisig configurations, or paired with enterprise custody solutions. When using integrations, ensure you interact only with reputable software and verify transaction content on-device before signing.

Privacy considerations

Ledger Live may query external services for price and network data. While private keys never leave your device, consider privacy tools if you want to reduce metadata exposure, such as running a personal node or using privacy-enhancing wallets for sensitive transactions.

Recovering from loss or theft

If your device is lost or stolen, you can restore your wallet on a new compatible Ledger device or another compatible wallet using your recovery phrase. If you suspect the phrase has been compromised, move funds to a new seed as soon as possible using a secure environment.

Conclusion

Setting up a Ledger device correctly is the most important step in self-custody. Follow official instructions, protect your recovery phrase, verify all on-device prompts, and maintain good operational security habits. With a properly configured Ledger wallet, you hold the keys to your financial sovereignty while minimizing exposure to online threats.