Before you begin

Unbox your device and verify the packaging is intact. Keep your recovery sheet and seed phrase offline and private. You will need a computer or mobile device and the official Ledger Live app for installation and app management.

Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for your full recovery phrase. If anyone asks for it, stop and assume malicious intent.

Step-by-step setup

1. Power on and choose a PIN

Power on your Ledger Nano X™ or S Plus™ using the supplied cable or built-in battery. Follow the on-screen prompts to select a language and create a unique PIN code. Your PIN protects local access to the device — choose something memorable but not easily guessed.

If you forget your PIN, you will need to restore your wallet using your recovery phrase. Keep that phrase secure.

2. Write down your recovery phrase

After setting the PIN, the device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Use the supplied recovery sheet or another offline method to record every word in the exact order displayed. This phrase is the backup of your private keys.

Store the sheet in a safe place. Consider using multiple secure locations or a dedicated hardware metal backup for long-term protection.

3. Install Ledger Live and connect

Download Ledger Live from the official site. Install the app on your computer or mobile device, open it, and choose Get Started. Connect your Ledger device when prompted and allow it to communicate with Ledger Live by confirming on-device prompts.

4. Add accounts and install apps

Inside Ledger Live, go to the Manager to install the apps you need, like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other coin apps. Add accounts from the Accounts tab, and Ledger Live will use your device to derive addresses securely.

Only install official apps from the Ledger Manager. Remove unused apps to save device storage and avoid confusion.

5. Receive and verify a transaction

To receive crypto, generate a receive address inside Ledger Live and confirm the address on your device. Always verify the address matches on-device before sharing it. Send a small test amount first to confirm everything is correct.

Security best practices

Ledger® Start™ encourages a mindset of layered security. Combine a hardware wallet with secure personal habits to protect your crypto holdings.

  • Keep your recovery phrase offline and never type it into websites or apps.
  • Enable passphrase support if you want an extra hidden account layer (advanced users).
  • Regularly update Ledger firmware via Ledger Live when updates are released.
  • Beware of phishing. Double-check domain names and never trust unsolicited links or messages claiming urgent action.
  • Consider a metal backup for your recovery phrase to resist fire and water damage.

Troubleshooting common issues

Device not detected: Ensure the cable and ports are functional, try a different USB port, or confirm Bluetooth pairing on mobile devices. Unlock the device before connecting to Ledger Live.

Forgot PIN: Use the recovery phrase to restore your accounts after resetting the device. Resetting erases local data to protect funds from unauthorized access.

Lost recovery phrase: If lost and funds remain accessible only on the device, transfer funds to a new wallet immediately if possible. If both are lost, the funds cannot be recovered.

For persistent issues, contact official Ledger support through the official domain and never share your full recovery phrase in support tickets or chats.

Additional resources

Find detailed guides, video walkthroughs, and official downloads at Ledger.com/start. Use community forums and reputable tutorials for tips, but cross-reference with official documentation before acting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does setup take?

Typical setup takes under 15 minutes for first-time users: powering the device, choosing a PIN, writing the recovery phrase, and installing Ledger Live. Advanced steps like passphrases and account customization may add more time.

Is my recovery phrase the same as a private key?

Your 24-word recovery phrase encodes the seed from which private keys are derived. It acts as the master backup for all keys and accounts on the device. Protect it like you would any high-value secret.

Can Ledger devices be hacked?

Hardware wallets significantly reduce many attack vectors because private keys never leave the device. However, social engineering, phishing, and compromised hosts can still cause loss. Following the best practices above reduces risk substantially.

What is a passphrase and should I use it?

A passphrase is an optional additional word or sentence appended to your recovery phrase to create a hidden wallet. It increases security but also increases complexity and the responsibility to remember both the passphrase and recovery phrase. Use it only if you understand the implications and have safe storage strategies.

Advanced tips for power users

For users managing multiple accounts or large holdings, adopt policies similar to those used by security-conscious organizations:

  • Use multiple devices with split responsibilities (cold storage versus daily operational wallets).
  • Employ multisignature solutions for shared custody or institutional workflows.
  • Test backups by performing a restoration on a spare device to confirm accuracy before relying on them long-term.
  • Keep firmware up to date but verify update announcements on the official site and avoid applying updates from unfamiliar sources.

Hardware wallets reduce risk, but secure operational habits and careful backup procedures are the foundation of long-term crypto safety.

Glossary

Seed / Recovery phrase: A series of words that represent the cryptographic seed used to derive private keys.

Private key: A secret value that allows spending from an address; it must never be shared.

Firmware: Software running on the device that may be updated to improve features or security.

Ledger Live: The official companion app for managing accounts, installing apps, and updating firmware. Download only from the official domain.