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Ledger Device Setup Guide

Welcome to the official Ledger start page. Follow this comprehensive guide to securely initialize your Ledger hardware wallet and protect your cryptocurrency assets with enterprise-grade security.

1

Unbox & Prepare

2

Install Ledger Live

3

Initialize Device

4

Secure Recovery

5

Add Accounts

Complete Ledger Setup Process

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire Ledger hardware wallet initialization process. Follow each step carefully to ensure your cryptocurrency assets are protected with the highest security standards available.

1

Unbox Your Ledger Device & Verify Authenticity

Begin by carefully unboxing your Ledger hardware wallet. Your package should contain the Ledger device itself, a USB cable, a recovery sheet, and getting started materials. The first and most critical security step is to verify that your device is genuine and hasn't been tampered with.

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Genuineness Check: Ledger devices include multiple security features to verify authenticity. Check for the intact security seal on the packaging and ensure the device screen displays the Ledger branding when connected. Never use a device that shows any signs of tampering or has a broken security seal.

Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device should power on automatically and display the Ledger logo. If you're setting up a Ledger Nano X, ensure it's sufficiently charged or keep it connected to power during the setup process.

Package Contents Verification:

  • Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X)
  • Original USB data cable (USB-C for Nano X, Micro-USB for others)
  • Three recovery phrase sheets for secure backup
  • Keychain strap for Nano X models
  • Getting started guide and important safety information
2

Install Ledger Live Application

Ledger Live is the official companion application for managing your Ledger device and cryptocurrency portfolio. It's available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website to avoid malicious software.

Visit ledger.com/ledger-live and download the appropriate version for your operating system. The installation process is straightforward:

Installation Steps:

  • Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions
  • Create a strong password for your Ledger Live application
  • Allow the application to install necessary drivers for device communication
  • Restart your computer if prompted to ensure proper driver installation
  • Launch Ledger Live and select "Get Started" to begin device setup
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Security Warning: Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Third-party sources may distribute modified versions containing malware designed to steal your recovery phrase or private keys. Always verify the website URL and check for the secure HTTPS connection.
3

Initialize Your Ledger Device

With Ledger Live installed and your device connected, you're ready to initialize your Ledger hardware wallet. This process involves configuring your device, setting a secure PIN code, and generating your unique recovery phrase.

In Ledger Live, select "Initialize as new device" and follow these steps:

Device Initialization Process:

  • Choose your device model (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X)
  • Set a secure PIN code with 4-8 digits (memorize this - it cannot be recovered)
  • Confirm your PIN by entering it a second time
  • Your device will now generate a 24-word recovery phrase
  • Write down each word in the exact order shown on your device screen
  • Verify your backup by selecting words in the correct sequence when prompted
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PIN Security: Your PIN code protects physical access to your device. After several incorrect PIN attempts, the device will wipe itself to prevent brute-force attacks. Choose a PIN that's memorable to you but difficult for others to guess. Never share your PIN with anyone.
4

Secure Your Recovery Phrase

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the most critical element of your Ledger security setup. This phrase represents access to all cryptocurrencies stored on your device. Proper backup and storage of this phrase is non-negotiable for asset security.

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Critical Security Rules: Never digitalize your recovery phrase. Do not take photos, store in cloud services, or type it into any computer or phone. The recovery phrase should only exist in physical form, written on the provided recovery sheets, and stored in secure, separate locations.

Use the provided recovery sheets to write down your 24-word phrase. We recommend creating multiple copies and storing them in different secure locations such as a safe deposit box, home safe, or with trusted family members. Consider using a cryptosteel or other fire/water-resistant storage solution for long-term protection.

Recovery Phrase Best Practices:

  • Write words clearly and double-check spelling
  • Verify the sequence matches exactly what's shown on your device
  • Store copies in geographically separate secure locations
  • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, including Ledger support
  • Consider memorizing the phrase as an additional backup method
  • Regularly verify that your stored recovery phrase is legible and accessible
5

Install Applications & Add Crypto Accounts

With your Ledger device initialized and secured, you can now install cryptocurrency applications and create accounts for the assets you want to manage. Ledger Live makes this process simple with its built-in application manager.

In Ledger Live, navigate to the "Manager" tab and connect your device. You'll see a list of available cryptocurrency applications. Install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you plan to use:

Application Installation:

  • Bitcoin app for Bitcoin and Bitcoin-based assets
  • Ethereum app for ETH and all ERC-20 tokens
  • Additional apps for altcoins like Litecoin, Polkadot, Cardano, etc.
  • Space management: Nano S has limited storage (install only needed apps)
  • Nano S Plus and Nano X have expanded storage for multiple apps

After installing applications, return to the accounts section and "Add account" for each cryptocurrency you want to use. Your Ledger device will generate unique receiving addresses for each account. You can now safely receive cryptocurrencies to these hardware-protected addresses.

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Address Verification: Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device screen before sending funds. This protects against malware that might alter addresses displayed on your computer. Your device shows the genuine address - if it doesn't match your computer screen, cancel the transaction immediately.

Choose Your Ledger Device

Ledger offers multiple hardware wallet models to suit different needs and budgets. All devices provide the same enterprise-grade security with varying features and storage capacities.

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Ledger Nano S Plus

The upgraded version of the popular Nano S with more storage and enhanced features. Perfect balance of security and functionality.

  • Secure Element (CC EAL5+ certified)
  • Expanded memory for 100+ applications
  • USB-C connectivity
  • Large screen for transaction verification
  • Support for 5,500+ cryptocurrencies
  • Compact and portable design

Best For: Everyday users wanting robust security with ample coin support.

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Ledger Nano X

Flagship hardware wallet with Bluetooth connectivity and maximum storage capacity. The ultimate solution for serious investors.

  • Secure Element (CC EAL5+ certified)
  • Bluetooth connectivity for mobile use
  • Maximum storage for 100+ applications
  • Large color display for clear verification
  • Battery power for cordless operation
  • Support for 5,500+ cryptocurrencies

Best For: Active traders and investors needing mobile access and maximum flexibility.

🛡️

Ledger Stax

The next-generation hardware wallet with innovative E Ink touchscreen display and premium design by Tony Fadell.

  • Secure Element (CC EAL5+ certified)
  • Large E Ink touchscreen display
  • Wireless charging and Bluetooth
  • Magnets for convenient stacking
  • Customizable lock screen messaging
  • Premium materials and construction

Best For: Tech enthusiasts wanting the latest innovation and premium user experience.

Ledger Security Architecture

Ledger devices incorporate multiple layers of security to protect your cryptocurrencies from both digital and physical threats.

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Secure Element Chip

Military-grade security chip (CC EAL5+ certified) that isolates and protects your private keys from sophisticated attacks.

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Trusted Display

All transaction details are shown on your device screen, preventing malware from altering destination addresses.

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BIP39 Compliance

Industry-standard recovery phrase implementation ensures compatibility with other wallets and future recovery options.

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PIN Protection

Device access is protected by a PIN code, with automatic wiping after multiple incorrect attempts.

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Genuine Check

Ledger Live verifies device authenticity during setup, ensuring you're using a genuine, untampered device.

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Firmware Integrity

Cryptographic signatures verify firmware authenticity, preventing installation of malicious software.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Ledger Live and my Ledger device? +

Ledger Live and your Ledger hardware wallet serve complementary but distinct roles in securing and managing your cryptocurrencies:

Ledger Live is the software application installed on your computer or mobile device that:

  • Provides the user interface for viewing your portfolio balance and transaction history
  • Manages cryptocurrency application installations on your Ledger device
  • Broadcasts signed transactions to blockchain networks
  • Shows current market prices and portfolio performance
  • Facilitates cryptocurrency exchanges and buying through partners

Your Ledger Device is the hardware wallet that:

  • Securely stores your private keys in its isolated Secure Element chip
  • Signs transactions offline, keeping private keys never exposed to the internet
  • Displays and verifies transaction details on its trusted screen
  • Generates and manages your recovery phrase
  • Requires physical button presses to confirm sensitive operations

Think of Ledger Live as the "dashboard" that shows your cryptocurrency information and prepares transactions, while your Ledger device is the "secure vault" that authorizes and signs those transactions without exposing your keys.

Can I recover my wallet if I lose both