Before you begin
Welcome — you’re about to start your Ledger® device. Take a deep breath and follow each step carefully. These steps protect your crypto by ensuring your private keys remain offline and your recovery phrase stays secret.
- Only use official resources: download software from Ledger.com/Start or the official app stores.
- Prepare a secure, private workspace away from cameras, smartphones, and public Wi‑Fi.
- Keep a pen and the provided recovery sheet (or a dedicated backup medium) ready to record your 24-word recovery phrase. Consider a metal backup for long-term durability.
What's in the box
A typical Ledger® package contains:
- Your Ledger® device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X).
- A USB cable (or USB-C for some models) and packaging materials.
- A recovery sheet to write your 24-word recovery phrase.
If packaging appears tampered with, contact official Ledger support before proceeding.
Step-by-step: First-time device setup
- Power on the device: Connect via USB (or power on the device if it has a battery). Follow on-screen prompts to begin.
- Select "Set up as new device": If this is your first Ledger®, choose the option to create a new wallet. If you are restoring an existing wallet, select "Restore from recovery phrase" and follow the restore prompts instead.
- Create a PIN code: Choose a PIN of at least 4–8 digits (longer is safer). Enter it on the device and confirm. Memorize the PIN — do not store it with your recovery phrase.
- Write down your recovery phrase: The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase one word at a time. Write each word clearly and in order on the recovery sheet. Verify the phrase when prompted by the device.
Do not: Enter your recovery phrase into any computer, phone, website, or cloud service. Do not photograph it or store it digitally. Never share it with anyone, even if they claim to be official support.
- Confirm the recovery phrase: The device will ask you to confirm specific words. This step ensures you recorded it correctly. Only proceed once confirmed.
- Install Ledger Live: On your computer or phone, download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/Start or your platform's app store. Ledger Live will guide you through adding accounts and installing currency-specific apps on your device.
- Install cryptocurrency apps: In Ledger Live, use the Manager to install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your device. Approve each installation on the hardware device as required.
- Add accounts and sync: Use Ledger Live to add accounts for installed apps. Ledger Live will synchronize balances from the blockchain; your private keys never leave the device.
Firmware updates and device integrity
Ledger periodically releases firmware updates to improve security and features. Only perform firmware updates from within Ledger Live when explicitly instructed, and never run firmware from third-party sources. If the device displays an unexpected message or an update you didn't initiate, disconnect and consult official support.
Safety & backup best practices
- Store your recovery phrase offline in at least two geographically separate secure locations when possible.
- Use a metal backup solution to protect against fire, water, and physical degradation.
- Never disclose your recovery phrase, even if someone offers to help recover your wallet.
- Consider using a passphrase (25th word) for advanced protection — understand the trade-offs and store passphrases securely (they are effectively an additional secret).
- Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live app up to date via official channels only.
Troubleshooting common startup problems
- Device not powering: Check the USB cable and try different ports. For battery models, ensure the device is charged.
- Recovery phrase errors: Re-check spelling and order. If still unable to restore, contact official support — never share the phrase publicly.
- Ledger Live won't detect device: Ensure Ledger Live is up to date, try another cable/port, and confirm OS permissions/firewall settings.
When to contact official support
If you suspect tampering, receive unsolicited contact claiming to be Ledger support, or encounter unrecoverable errors, stop and use official Ledger support channels listed at Ledger Support. Never call phone numbers or click links from unsolicited messages. Official support will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase.