Get Started with Ledger® – Hardware Wallet Setup & Installation
Securing your cryptocurrency with a hardware wallet is one of the smartest decisions you can make in protecting your digital investments. Ledger®, a globally recognized leader in hardware wallet security, provides devices designed to keep your private keys offline and safe from hackers, malware, and phishing threats. Whether you're completely new to crypto storage or transitioning from a software wallet, this guide will walk you step-by-step through the entire Ledger® setup and installation experience—helping you get started smoothly and confidently.
1. Introduction to Ledger Hardware Wallets
Ledger® hardware wallets, such as the Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, and Ledger Stax, are physical devices that store your private keys in a secure, offline environment. Private keys never leave the device, making it significantly more secure than online or mobile wallets.
These wallets support thousands of cryptocurrencies, tokens, and NFTs. They also integrate with Ledger Live, the official app that allows you to manage, send, receive, and stake assets all in one place. Setting up your Ledger correctly ensures your crypto remains protected against the most common security threats.
2. Preparing for Setup
Before you start the installation, gather the following:
Your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Stax)
A computer or smartphone compatible with Ledger Live
USB cable (included with the device)
Quiet, private environment
Pen and recovery sheet (included in the box)
While setting up your wallet, ensure no one can view your screen or device, and avoid environments with cameras or people nearby. Your recovery phrase is extremely sensitive, and keeping it private is essential.
3. Visiting the Official Ledger Start Page
Your first action should be visiting the official Ledger start page:
ledger.com/start
This page ensures you follow the legitimate setup path. The crypto space is full of fake apps, counterfeit hardware, and phishing sites, so visiting the official page helps you avoid downloading dangerous software or following fraudulent instructions.
On Ledger.com/Start, you’ll find:
Download links for Ledger Live
Device-specific setup instructions
Security and recovery phrase guidance
Troubleshooting tips
Video tutorials
Once you reach the page, choose your Ledger model to continue.
4. Installing Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the central software hub for managing your hardware wallet. It allows you to install apps, manage accounts, view balances, send and receive crypto, and stake or swap assets.
Here’s how to install:
Download the correct version of Ledger Live for your device (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android).
Install the application by following the prompts.
Open Ledger Live and select “Get Started.”
Choose your hardware wallet model.
Never download Ledger Live from any source aside from the official Ledger website. This is critical for avoiding malicious clones that could compromise your security.
5. Initializing Your Device
Once Ledger Live is installed, plug your Ledger device into your computer or mobile device using the provided cable. The screen on the Ledger device will light up and guide you through initial setup.
Choose: Set Up as New Device
If this is your first time using the wallet, select the option to set up a new device. If you’re recovering a wallet, choose Restore from Recovery Phrase instead.
6. Creating a PIN Code
Your PIN code protects the wallet from unauthorized access. Ledger will prompt you to:
Create a PIN (4–8 digits).
Enter the PIN again to confirm it.
Choose a PIN that is not easily guessable—avoid birthdays, repeated numbers, or simple sequences. Never share your PIN with anyone, and never store it digitally (such as on your phone or computer).
7. Writing Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase
This is the most important step in the entire installation process.
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase, also known as a seed phrase. This phrase is your backup to recover the wallet if your device is lost, damaged, or replaced.
Rules for Handling the Recovery Phrase:
Write it exactly as shown, in the correct order.
Use the recovery sheet provided in the box.
Double-check spelling and numbering.
Never take photos of your phrase.
Never enter it into a computer or online form.
Never share it with Ledger support or anyone else.
Your recovery phrase is the single key to your crypto. Anyone with this phrase has full access to your funds.
After writing it down, the device will ask you to confirm certain words to ensure they match exactly.
8. Completing the Device Setup
Once the recovery phrase is confirmed:
The device finalizes setup.
Ledger Live verifies that your device is genuine.
You will see a confirmation message in Ledger Live when everything is ready.
At this stage, you have a functioning hardware wallet with secure offline storage.
9. Installing Crypto Apps on Your Ledger Device
Ledger devices require individual apps for each cryptocurrency you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.).
To install apps:
Open Ledger Live.
Navigate to “My Ledger.”
Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
Browse available apps and click Install.
Apps take device storage space, but removing them later does not affect your crypto. Your assets remain safe because private keys never leave the device.
10. Adding Accounts in Ledger Live
Before sending or receiving crypto, you need to add accounts corresponding to the coins you want to manage.
To add an account:
Go to the Accounts tab.
Select Add Account.
Choose the cryptocurrency.
Open the corresponding app on your Ledger device.
Ledger Live will sync and create the account.
Now you can see balances, transaction history, and asset details.
11. Receiving Crypto with Your Ledger
To receive crypto:
Click Receive in Ledger Live.
Choose the account.
Ledger Live displays your address.
Your Ledger device also displays the address.
Confirm the two addresses match.
Always verify addresses on the physical device. This prevents malware from altering your receiving address.
After verification, you can share the address with the sender.
12. Sending Crypto
To send crypto:
Click Send in Ledger Live.
Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
Confirm details.
Ledger prompts you to confirm the transaction on your hardware device.
Physically approve it by pressing the buttons.
This physical confirmation ensures no unauthorized transaction can occur.
13. Updating Firmware
Ledger firmware updates improve security and add features. To update:
Open Ledger Live.
Go to My Ledger.
Follow update instructions.
Always ensure your 24-word recovery phrase is stored safely before updating.
14. Long-Term Security Tips
Store your recovery phrase offline and in a secure place.
Use a fireproof/waterproof backup if possible.
Regularly update Ledger Live.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi when managing crypto.
Double-check URLs before entering sensitive info.
Conclusion
Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet is the foundational step to ensuring your cryptocurrency is secured with one of the highest levels of protection available. By using Ledger Live, creating a secure PIN, safeguarding your 24-word recovery phrase, and following best security practices, you can confidently manage and grow your crypto portfolio. Ledger devices put you in full control of your digital assets—giving you peace of mind and unparalleled security in an increasingly digital world.