Start Your Journey with Ledger
The complete guide to setting up your Ledger Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus. Secure your crypto assets with the world's most trusted hardware wallet.
Why Choose Ledger for Crypto Security?
In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency, security is paramount. Ledger has established itself as the gold standard for hardware wallets, offering an unparalleled combination of security and ease of use. Whether you own a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or the new Ledger Stax, you are taking a decisive step towards true ownership of your digital assets.
Unlike software wallets (hot wallets) that are constantly connected to the internet and vulnerable to hacks, Ledger devices store your private keys offline in a secure element chip. This "cold storage" approach ensures that your funds remain safe from online threats, phishing attacks, and malware. By visiting Ledger.com/Start, you are beginning the process of becoming your own bank.
This guide is designed to walk you through the entire setup process, from unboxing to making your first transaction. We will cover everything you need to know to use your device confidently and securely. Remember, your Ledger device is the key to your financial freedom—setting it up correctly is the most important step.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Follow these instructions carefully to initialize your device securely.
Unbox Your Ledger Device
When you first receive your Ledger device, ensure the packaging is intact. Inside the box, you should find the Ledger device itself, a USB cable, a keychain strap, and several recovery sheets.
Download Ledger Live
Go to the official website at ledger.com/ledger-live to download the companion app. Ledger Live is the interface you will use to manage your accounts and install apps on your device.
Install the application on your computer (Windows, Mac, or Linux) or mobile device (iOS or Android for Nano X).
Initialize Your Device
Connect your Ledger to your computer using the supplied USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions on the device. You will navigate using the two buttons (left/right) and confirm selections by pressing both buttons simultaneously.
Select the option to "Set up as new device" if this is your first time.
Set Up Your PIN Code
You will be asked to choose a PIN code. This code unlocks your device physically. You can choose between 4 to 8 digits.
- Choose a code that is not easy to guess (avoid 1234, 0000, etc.).
- You will need this PIN every time you plug in your device.
Write Down Recovery Phrase
This is the most critical step. Your Ledger will display a series of 24 words. This is your Secret Recovery Phrase.
Write down each word carefully on the provided recovery sheet in the correct order. After writing them down, the device will ask you to verify each word to ensure accuracy.
NEVER share these 24 words with anyone. NEVER enter them into any website or app. Anyone with these words can access your funds.
Install Apps & Manage Crypto
Once your device is initialized, open Ledger Live. The app will perform a genuine check to ensure your device is authentic.
Go to the "My Ledger" tab to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin app, Ethereum app). After installing an app, you can add an account in the "Accounts" tab to start receiving funds.
Power & Security in Your Pocket
Discover what makes Ledger the industry leader in crypto security.
Multi-Currency Support
Manage over 5,500 digital assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Cardano, and thousands of tokens (ERC20, BEP20, etc.) all in one place.
Bluetooth Connectivity
The Ledger Nano X features Bluetooth Low Energy, allowing you to connect wirelessly to your iOS or Android phone for on-the-go management.
Ledger Live App
A powerful companion app to buy, sell, swap, and stake your crypto directly. Track your portfolio in real-time with an intuitive interface.
Staking & DeFi
Grow your assets securely. Stake Tezos, Tron, Cosmos, Algorand, and Polkadot directly through Ledger Live, or connect to DeFi apps securely.
Secure Element Chip
Ledger uses a Certified Secure Element (CC EAL5+), the same chip type used in passports and credit cards, to keep your private keys isolated.
NFT Support
Visualize, manage, and secure your Ethereum and Polygon NFTs directly within the Ledger Live application with full transparency.
Security Best Practices
Owning a hardware wallet is the first step, but your behavior is just as important. Follow these golden rules to keep your assets safe forever.
Never Share Your Recovery Phrase
Your 24-word phrase is for your eyes only. Ledger support will never ask for it. Never take a photo of it or store it in a cloud service.
Verify Transactions on Device
Always trust what you see on your Ledger device screen, not your computer screen. Verify addresses character by character before confirming.
Only Use Official Software
Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com. Be wary of fake apps on search engines or app stores.