Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Wallet
Carefully open your Ledger device box. Verify that the anti-tamper seal is intact. The package includes your Ledger hardware wallet, USB cable, recovery sheet, and instructions.
Step 2: Go to Ledger.com/Start
Open your web browser and navigate to https://www.ledger.com/start. This is the only official guide provided by Ledger for setting up your wallet securely.
Step 3: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official application to manage your crypto securely. Download it for Windows, Mac, or Linux from the official site. Avoid third-party downloads.
Step 4: Connect Your Device
Plug in your Ledger wallet using the provided USB cable. Open Ledger Live and follow the prompts to initialize a new device or restore an existing wallet.
Step 5: Choose "Set Up as New Device"
To create a new wallet, choose "Set up as new device". Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. You will be asked to create a secure PIN code.
Step 6: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the key to restoring your crypto if the device is lost or stolen. Write it down carefully and store it offline in a safe place.
Step 7: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
To ensure you’ve written the correct words in the correct order, your device will ask you to confirm a few of them. Do not take photos or store your phrase digitally.
Step 8: Access the Dashboard
Once setup is complete, you will enter the Ledger Live dashboard. Here, you can add accounts for different cryptocurrencies, send and receive funds, and monitor your portfolio.
Step 9: Install Apps on Your Device
Depending on the cryptocurrencies you wish to use, install relevant apps on your Ledger device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Each crypto requires its own app to work with Ledger Live.
Step 10: Start Transacting Securely
Now you’re ready to receive, send, and manage your crypto. Each transaction must be confirmed on the device, ensuring that even if your computer is compromised, your funds remain secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ledger Live safe to use?
Yes. Ledger Live is the official Ledger app, designed for secure hardware wallet management. Always download it from the official website.
Can I recover my wallet without my Ledger device?
Yes — as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase. You can restore your wallet on another Ledger device or any compatible wallet.
What if I lose my recovery phrase?
If your recovery phrase is lost and the device is damaged or reset, you will permanently lose access to your crypto. Always store your phrase securely offline.
Can Ledger store multiple cryptocurrencies?
Yes, Ledger wallets support over 5,500 crypto assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and many ERC-20 tokens. You can manage them using Ledger Live.
Should I use Ledger with mobile?
Yes. Ledger Nano X supports Bluetooth, allowing use with the Ledger