Official Site® | Ledger Wallet® | Getting Started

Welcome to the official Ledger Wallet® setup guide! This guide will help you securely set up your Ledger hardware wallet to manage and protect your cryptocurrencies. Ledger devices are designed to give you peace of mind with hardware-level security. Whether you're new to crypto or an experienced user, this guide will walk you through every step of the setup process.

What You'll Need

Before starting the setup process, make sure you have the following items available:

Note: Your recovery seed is vital for restoring access to your wallet. Keep it in a safe place and do not store it digitally.

Step 1: Visit the Official Setup Page

To begin the setup process, go to the official Ledger website: ledger.com/start. This page will direct you to the appropriate software and guide you through the entire setup process.

On the setup page, you will be asked to choose your Ledger device model (Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano X, or Ledger Stax). Select the correct device to proceed with the appropriate instructions.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official application required to manage your Ledger device and your cryptocurrency holdings. To install it:

  1. Click the download link for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) on the Ledger setup page.
  2. Once the installer file is downloaded, open it to start the installation process.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  4. Launch Ledger Live once installation is complete.

Tip: Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid potential security risks. This ensures you're using the most recent and secure version of the software.

Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Device

Now that you’ve installed Ledger Live, it’s time to connect your Ledger device:

  1. Plug in your Ledger hardware wallet to your computer or mobile device using the provided USB cable (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X).
  2. Turn on your Ledger device. You should see the Ledger logo displayed on the screen.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions on your device to select your language and prepare it for setup.

Note: For Ledger Nano X users, you can also connect your device via Bluetooth when using a mobile device. Make sure your Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device.

Step 4: Set Up Your PIN Code

To secure your Ledger device, you need to set up a PIN code. This PIN will be required every time you access your wallet. Here’s how to set it up:

  1. Select the option to set a PIN code on your Ledger device.
  2. Choose a 4-8 digit PIN code. Make sure it’s a secure number you can remember.
  3. Confirm your PIN code by entering it again.

Tip: Avoid using simple PIN codes like "1234" or "0000" to ensure the security of your wallet.

Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Seed

Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery seed during setup. This recovery seed is your only way to restore your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Here’s how to securely record it:

  1. Write down the 24 words on the recovery sheet provided with your device.
  2. Store the recovery sheet in a secure, private location, such as a safe. Never store it digitally or share it with anyone.

Warning: Anyone with access to your recovery seed can access your cryptocurrency. Keep it private and secure.

Step 6: Verify Your Recovery Seed

After writing down your recovery seed, you will be asked to verify it by entering the words in the correct order. This ensures you have recorded the seed accurately:

  1. Enter the recovery words on your Ledger device, following the exact order in which they were presented.
  2. Once you’ve entered all the words correctly, your device will confirm that the seed is verified.

Tip: Double-check each word and its order before confirming to avoid errors.

Step 7: Install Apps for Cryptocurrencies

Now that your Ledger wallet is set up, you can install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Ledger supports a wide variety of digital currencies. To install apps:

  1. In Ledger Live, go to the “Manager” tab.
  2. Select the cryptocurrencies you want to manage and click “Install” to add the apps to your device.
  3. Once installed, you can begin managing your crypto assets directly from Ledger Live.

Tip: Install only the apps for cryptocurrencies you plan to use regularly. This keeps your device organized.

Step 8: Start Using Your Ledger Wallet

Your Ledger wallet is now fully set up! You can begin sending and receiving cryptocurrencies securely. Here’s how:

Important: Always double-check the recipient’s address and transaction details before confirming.