Official Site® Ledger.com/Start®
Getting started with Ledger hardware wallets and Ledger Live

Getting started with Ledger

This guide helps you set up your Ledger hardware wallet and Ledger Live application securely and confidently. Whether you’re unboxing a Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or another Ledger device, the steps below explain verification, initialization, backup, and safe transaction practices to protect your crypto assets.

Before you start — essentials

Make sure you ordered your Ledger from an authorized source. Have a quiet, private place to record your recovery phrase, a computer or phone to run Ledger Live, and a data-capable USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Do not proceed if the packaging looks tampered with or the device was purchased second-hand without a secure wipe.

1. Verify authenticity

Ledger places strong emphasis on supply-chain security. Check tamper-evident seals, packaging details, and serial numbers. If anything looks suspicious, contact Ledger Support before connecting the device. Never trust sellers outside official channels listed on ledger.com.

2. Install Ledger Live and connect

Download Ledger Live from the official page at ledger.com/ledger-live. Ledger Live manages accounts, installs apps to your device, and guides firmware updates. Follow the installer prompts and connect your device; Ledger Live will auto-detect the model and recommend initial steps.

3. Initialize your device

Choose to create a new wallet if this is your first device, or restore if you already have a recovery phrase. During initialization your Ledger will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words); write these words down in order on the provided recovery sheet — never store them digitally. Ledger devices show the phrase on-device so it never transits the host machine.

4. Secure your recovery phrase

Your recovery phrase is the ultimate key to your funds. Keep it offline and consider a metal backup plate for long-term durability. Never share the phrase, and never enter it into a website or app. Be aware of social engineering attempts asking for this information — Ledger staff will never request your seed.

5. Install apps and add accounts

Ledger supports many blockchains through device apps installed via Ledger Live. Use Ledger Live’s Manager tab to install app binaries to the device, then add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to use. Each app consumes a small portion of device storage; uninstalling an app does not delete your funds — they remain recoverable using your recovery phrase.

6. Firmware and software updates

Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live up-to-date. Firmware updates are cryptographically signed by Ledger and distributed via Ledger Live. Only accept updates presented inside Ledger Live from ledger.com. Updates often include security hardening and new feature support.

7. Sending and receiving funds

To receive funds, generate a receive address in Ledger Live and confirm it on your device screen. For sending, compose the transaction in Ledger Live, then confirm details (amount, address, fees) on your device before approving. Confirming on-device protects you from host-level address-manipulation attacks.

8. Best practices & privacy

  • Always verify addresses on the device screen.
  • Use strong PIN codes and enable passphrase if you understand the recovery implications.
  • Keep backups in multiple secure locations if feasible (split geographically).
  • Avoid storing recovery phrases in digital photos, cloud storage, or password managers — these can be compromised.

9. Troubleshooting common issues

If Ledger Live doesn't detect your device, try a different cable or USB port, ensure Ledger Live is up-to-date, and that your device is unlocked. For Bluetooth issues with Nano X, check device pairing settings. For persistent problems consult Support or use community resources.

10. Advanced options

For power users, enable a passphrase to create hidden wallets or use multisig setups with compatible software to increase security. Ledger provides enterprise and developer documentation for integrating ledger-backed signing into custom systems — consult the Ledger GitHub and developer docs.

Security checklist (quick)

  1. Purchase from an authorized seller.
  2. Verify packaging and device authenticity.
  3. Record your recovery phrase offline and securely.
  4. Confirm addresses on-device before signing.
  5. Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I restore my Ledger recovery phrase on another device?
A: Yes — if the restoring wallet supports the same mnemonic standard (BIP39/BIP44). Restoring on a non-hardware wallet exposes your seed to risk; prefer another hardware wallet for secure restores.

Q: What happens if I lose my device?
A: Your funds are not lost as long as you have the recovery phrase. Use it to restore on a new Ledger or compatible wallet.

10 helpful links

  1. Ledger.com/Start®
  2. Ledger Live
  3. Buy Ledger
  4. Support
  5. Ledger Academy
  6. Ledger Blog
  7. Security Center
  8. FAQ
  9. GitHub
  10. Enterprise

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