Welcome to Ledger.com/start

Your complete guide to setting up your new Ledger hardware wallet. Follow these simple steps to secure your cryptocurrencies with the world's leading hardware wallet.

Begin Setup Watch Tutorial
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Nano X
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Nano S Plus
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Nano S
Ledger Nano X
Ready to setup
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Complete Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and secure your cryptocurrencies

Unbox
Connect
Initialize
Backup
Install Apps
Complete
1

Unbox Your Ledger Device

Carefully unbox your Ledger device and verify all components:

  • Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X, Nano S Plus, or Nano S)
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheet (for 24-word phrase)
  • Keychain strap (Nano X) or lanyard
  • Getting started guide
Important: Check that your device is genuine. Look for intact packaging and verify your device using Ledger's genuine check when you connect it.

Keep your recovery sheet in a safe place - you'll need it later in the setup process.

2

Connect and Power On

Connect your Ledger device to your computer or mobile device:

  1. For Nano X: Charge using USB-C cable or use Bluetooth with Ledger Live Mobile
  2. For Nano S/S Plus: Connect via USB cable to computer
  3. Power on your device by pressing the side button
Tip: For Nano X, ensure it's charged or connected to power source during setup.

Your Ledger screen should display "Welcome" or show a battery indicator if it's a Nano X.

3

Initialize Your Device

Set up your Ledger as a new device:

  1. Choose "Configure as new device" on the screen
  2. Set up a PIN code (4-8 digits) for device security
  3. Confirm your PIN by entering it again
Security: Choose a PIN that's not easily guessable but that you can remember. The PIN protects your device from unauthorized access.

The PIN entry is randomized on your Ledger screen to prevent keyloggers from capturing it.

4

Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical step for securing your funds:

  1. Your Ledger will generate a unique 24-word recovery phrase
  2. Write down each word in exact order on your recovery sheet
  3. Double-check that all words are spelled correctly and in the right sequence
  4. Confirm your recovery phrase by selecting words in correct order
Critical Warning: Never digitalize your recovery phrase. Don't take photos, store in cloud services, or type it on any device. Anyone with your recovery phrase can access your funds. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.
5

Install Ledger Live and Apps

Install Ledger Live and cryptocurrency apps:

  1. Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/ledger-live
  2. Install the application on your computer or mobile device
  3. Follow the setup wizard in Ledger Live
  4. Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage
Tip: You can install multiple cryptocurrency apps on your Ledger device. The device storage limits how many apps can be installed simultaneously.

Ledger Live will guide you through adding accounts and managing your portfolio.

6

Start Using Your Ledger

Congratulations! Your Ledger is now ready to use:

  • Receive cryptocurrencies by generating receiving addresses in Ledger Live
  • Send funds by verifying transactions on your device screen
  • Explore Ledger Live features like portfolio tracking, swap, and stake
  • Access third-party services through Ledger's ecosystem

Remember to keep your recovery phrase safe and never share it with anyone. Consider using Ledger Recover for additional backup (optional).

Ledger Security Features

Your cryptocurrencies are protected by industry-leading security technology

🔒

Secure Element Chip

Your private keys are stored in a certified secure element, the same technology used in passports and credit cards.

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24-Word Recovery Phrase

Back up your entire wallet with a single recovery phrase that only you control.

✅

Genuine Check

Ledger Live automatically verifies your device is genuine during setup.

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Transaction Verification

All transactions must be physically confirmed on your device screen.

What You'll Need

Ensure you have everything ready before starting the setup process

💻

Computer or Smartphone

Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android device with internet

🔌

USB Cable

The provided USB cable to connect your Ledger to computer

📝

Recovery Sheet

Included recovery sheet for backing up your 24-word phrase

⏱️

Time

Approximately 20-30 minutes for complete setup process

Get Ledger Live

Download the official Ledger Live application to manage your cryptocurrencies securely

🪟

Windows

Windows 10 and later

🍎

macOS

macOS 10.14 and later

🐧

Linux

64-bit distributions

📱

Mobile

iOS and Android

Download Ledger Live

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about setting up your Ledger

What if I lose my recovery phrase? +

If you lose your recovery phrase and your Ledger is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will permanently lose access to your funds. There is no way to recover cryptocurrencies without the recovery phrase. This is why it's critical to store your recovery phrase securely in multiple safe locations. Consider using Ledger Recover for an additional backup option.

Can I use my Ledger with multiple computers? +

Yes, you can use your Ledger device with any computer or mobile device that has Ledger Live installed. Your private keys remain securely stored on your Ledger device, so you can safely connect to different computers without compromising security.

What happens if I enter the wrong PIN multiple times? +

After three incorrect PIN attempts, your Ledger will wipe itself to protect against brute-force attacks. Don't worry - your funds are safe as long as you have your recovery phrase. You can restore your wallet using the recovery phrase and set a new PIN.

Do I need to update my Ledger firmware? +

Yes, it's important to keep your Ledger firmware updated. Updates include security improvements, new features, and support for additional cryptocurrencies. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available and guide you through the simple update process.