How to Set Up Your Ledger Device — Step-by-Step

Before you start — What you need

• Your new Ledger device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X or similar).
• A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or a compatible smartphone (iOS/Android) for Ledger Live.
• A stable internet connection to download Ledger Live.
• A safe, private place to write and store your recovery phrase (do not store it digitally).

1. Unbox and check the device

Open the package and confirm you have:

• The Ledger device.
• A USB cable (or USB-C depending on model).
• Paper recovery sheets and a quick-start card.

Inspect packaging for tampering. The device should arrive powered off. If it turns on automatically, treat this as suspicious and contact support.

2. Download & install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official app for managing your Ledger device and accounts. Do not download Ledger Live from third-party sites.

1. On your computer or phone, go to the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live for your platform.
2. Install the app and open it.
3. Choose "Get Started" and follow on-screen prompts.

3. Connect your Ledger device & power on

Use the supplied USB cable to connect the Ledger to your computer or, for Nano X, pair via Bluetooth with the mobile Ledger Live.

When the device boots, you'll see a welcome screen. Press both buttons simultaneously (or the single main button depending on model) to begin.

4. Choose: Create a new wallet or restore an existing one

On the device you’ll be asked to either Create a new device or Restore from recovery phrase.

Set your PIN: Choose a PIN you can remember but that others won't guess. The device uses this PIN to unlock it every time.

5. Securely record your recovery phrase

When creating a new wallet, the device will show your recovery words one-by-one. Write them down in order on the recovery sheet provided. Keep the sheet offline and in a safe place.

After writing the words, your device will ask you to confirm a few randomly selected words to verify accuracy.

6. Finish setup in Ledger Live

Back in Ledger Live:

1. Choose Set up a new device and follow prompts that match what you did on the device.
2. When asked, allow the app to connect to your Ledger device and to install Manager (if prompted).
3. Create or import accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to use — Ledger Live will show supported apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).

Use the Manager in Ledger Live to install app packages on the device for each currency you plan to hold.

7. Receive crypto to your Ledger

To receive funds:

1. Open the relevant account in Ledger Live.
2. Click Receive and connect your Ledger device when prompted.
3. Verify the receiving address displayed in Ledger Live matches the address shown on your device before sharing it with the sender.

Security best practices & maintenance

• Keep your recovery phrase offline and in a secure location (consider a fireproof safe).
• Use a strong, unique PIN and enable any additional device security features available.
• Only install official apps via Ledger Live. Do not install unsupported third-party firmware.
• Periodically update Ledger Live and the device firmware via Ledger Live when updates are released.
• Consider splitting your holdings across multiple devices if you manage large amounts.

Troubleshooting — Common issues

Device not recognized

Try a different USB cable or port, restart your computer, and ensure Ledger Live is up to date. On mobile, check Bluetooth permissions (Nano X).

Forgot PIN

If you forget your PIN, you must reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase. Be sure your recovery phrase is current and complete before resetting.

Lost recovery phrase

If you lose the recovery phrase and still have access to the device, immediately move funds to a new wallet with a new recovery phrase. If you lose both device and phrase, funds cannot be recovered.

FAQ