Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started

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How to Set Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet | Ledger

Setting up a Ledger hardware wallet is the first step to securing your cryptocurrencies. Ledger wallets, such as the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X, store your private keys offline, keeping your crypto safe from hacks, malware, and phishing attacks. This guide walks you through the official setup process.

1. What You Need Before You Start

Before setting up your Ledger device, make sure you have:

  • A Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
  • A computer or mobile device with an internet connection
  • The USB cable included in the Ledger package
  • A pen and recovery sheet (for your 24-word recovery phrase)
Always ensure you’re using official Ledger materials and downloads to avoid scams.

2. Visit Ledger.com/Start

  1. Open your browser and go to Ledger.com/start
  2. Select your Ledger device: Nano S Plus or Nano X
  3. Download Ledger Live, the official Ledger management app, for desktop or mobile
Ledger Live is required to manage your cryptocurrency accounts and update your device firmware.

3. Unbox and Connect Your Ledger Device

  • Remove your Ledger device from the packaging
  • Connect your device to your computer using the included USB cable
  • For Ledger Nano X, you can also use Bluetooth to connect to mobile devices

Your device will power on and display a welcome message.

4. Initialize Your Ledger Device

You have two options when setting up your Ledger wallet:

  1. Set up as a new device – for creating a new wallet
  2. Restore from recovery phrase – for restoring an existing wallet

Step 1: Choose a PIN Code

  • Use the device buttons to select numbers
  • Confirm your PIN on the device

Step 2: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

  • Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase
  • Write each word carefully on the recovery sheet provided
  • Store this sheet offline and in a secure location
The recovery phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

5. Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is essential for managing your crypto.

  1. Open the Ledger Live installer you downloaded
  2. Follow the installation instructions for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android)
  3. Open Ledger Live and select “Get Started”
  4. Connect your Ledger device and follow on-screen instructions

Ledger Live allows you to:

  • Add cryptocurrency accounts
  • Send and receive crypto securely
  • Monitor your portfolio
  • Install firmware updates

6. Adding Crypto Accounts

  1. Open Ledger Live and navigate to Accounts → Add account
  2. Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage
  3. Confirm your account on the Ledger device
  4. Repeat to add multiple accounts
Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many altcoins.

7. Sending and Receiving Crypto

To Receive Crypto:

  • Go to Receive in Ledger Live
  • Select the cryptocurrency and account
  • Confirm the address on your device before sharing

To Send Crypto:

  • Go to Send in Ledger Live
  • Enter the recipient address and amount
  • Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device
Always verify addresses on your device screen to prevent malware from tampering with transactions.

8. Security Best Practices

  • Keep your PIN and recovery phrase secure
  • Only download Ledger Live from Ledger.com/start
  • Update Ledger Live and device firmware regularly
  • Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone
  • Only connect your Ledger to trusted devices

9. Conclusion

Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is a crucial step in protecting your cryptocurrency. By following Ledger’s official instructions, installing Ledger Live, and securely storing your recovery phrase, you ensure your digital assets remain safe from theft or loss.

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