Ledger® Setup Guide

Official Guide for Setting Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet — ledger.com/start

Introduction

Welcome to your Ledger® Setup Guide. Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or a seasoned user, this guide will walk you step-by-step through setting up your Ledger hardware wallet securely. Ledger devices are designed to keep your private keys safe while giving you full control of your assets.

Tip: Always ensure your Ledger device is purchased from an official source to avoid counterfeit products.

Step 1: Unboxing Your Ledger Device

When you receive your Ledger device, the box should be sealed. Inside, you will find:

Note: If any item is missing or the box looks tampered, contact Ledger support immediately.

Step 2: Connecting Your Ledger Device

Follow these steps to connect your Ledger device to your computer or smartphone:

Step 2.1: Using USB

Plug the Ledger device into your computer using the USB cable provided. The device screen should light up and display a welcome message.

Step 2.2: Using Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X)

For Ledger Nano X users, you can connect via Bluetooth to the Ledger Live mobile app. Enable Bluetooth on your device and follow the in-app instructions.

Step 3: Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion app that allows you to manage your crypto assets securely.

Step 3.1: Download Ledger Live

Visit ledger.com/ledger-live and download the version suitable for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS).

Step 3.2: Install Ledger Live

Follow the installation instructions for your platform. Once installed, open Ledger Live and select "Get Started."

Tip: Keep your Ledger Live app updated to benefit from the latest security and features.

Step 4: Setting Up Your Device

The setup process involves creating a PIN and generating a recovery phrase.

Step 4.1: Create a PIN

Choose a 4- to 8-digit PIN. Remember this PIN carefully; it is required to unlock your device.

Step 4.2: Backup Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words on the recovery sheet in the exact order shown.

Note: Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it with anyone. It is the only way to recover your funds if the device is lost or stolen.

Step 5: Installing Apps on Ledger

Ledger devices support multiple cryptocurrencies through individual apps.

Step 5.1: Open Ledger Live

Go to the Manager tab in Ledger Live and connect your device.

Step 5.2: Install Crypto Apps

Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage and click Install. The app will be installed directly onto your Ledger device.

Tip: You can install multiple apps, but remember the device memory is limited.

Step 6: Receiving Cryptocurrency

To receive funds, you need your wallet address:

Step 6.1: Open the App

On your Ledger device, open the app for the cryptocurrency you want to receive.

Step 6.2: Generate Address

In Ledger Live, click Receive and verify the address shown on the device matches the app.

Note: Always double-check addresses before sending funds.

Step 7: Sending Cryptocurrency

Sending crypto securely requires verifying all transaction details on your Ledger device:

Step 7.1: Open the App

Select the cryptocurrency you want to send on your Ledger device.

Step 7.2: Confirm Transaction

In Ledger Live, enter the recipient address and amount, then confirm the details on your device screen before approving the transaction.

Tip: Consider small test transactions when sending large amounts for the first time.

Step 8: Security Best Practices

Maintaining the security of your Ledger device is critical. Here are some best practices:

Note: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase online. Beware of phishing attempts.

Step 9: Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues, try the following:

Step 9.1: Device Not Recognized

Reconnect your Ledger device and try a different USB port. Ensure Ledger Live is up to date.

Step 9.2: Ledger Live Crashes

Restart the app, or reinstall Ledger Live if problems persist.

Step 9.3: Recovery Phrase Mistakes

Do not attempt to guess the words. Use your original recovery sheet. If lost, funds cannot be recovered.

Step 10: Ledger Resources & Support

For further assistance, Ledger provides extensive resources:

Tip: Always refer to official Ledger resources to avoid scams.