Congratulations on purchasing your Ledger® hardware wallet. You’ve taken the first step towards securing your digital assets with one of the most trusted names in crypto security. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to set up your Ledger device, install the necessary software, and begin managing your cryptocurrency safely.
Inside the box, you’ll find your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus®, Nano X®, or Nano S®), a USB cable, a recovery sheet, and a quick start guide. Ensure the box is sealed properly and hasn't been tampered with. Ledger devices come with built-in security features to prevent unauthorized access, but physical tampering can still be a risk if not purchased from a trusted source.
Before connecting your device, go to the official site via your browser and search for Ledger.com/Start®. This is the official onboarding portal for Ledger devices. Do not use third-party websites. Only download software from the official source to avoid scams and phishing attacks.
Ledger Live is the official companion app for your hardware wallet. It allows you to manage your crypto assets, check balances, and install apps for different coins. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as mobile versions for iOS and Android. During installation, make sure your operating system is updated and that you're downloading from the authentic source.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions. You will be asked to create a PIN code. Choose a strong, unique PIN that only you know. After that, you will receive your 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is your only backup in case your device is lost or damaged. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it in a safe, offline location. Never share this phrase with anyone.
After writing down your 24-word recovery phrase, the device will ask you to confirm it. This step ensures that you have correctly noted it. This phrase gives access to your funds, so it's essential that it remains private and secure. Ledger® will never ask for your recovery phrase. Be cautious of phishing websites and emails that may try to steal your credentials.
After your device is set up, open Ledger Live and navigate to the "Manager" section. From here, you can install apps for each cryptocurrency you want to manage, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. Then, go to "Accounts" to add wallets for each coin. This will allow you to send, receive, and check balances directly through Ledger Live.
With your Ledger® wallet fully set up, you can now transfer your crypto from exchanges to your hardware wallet for enhanced security. Simply copy your receive address from Ledger Live, double-check it on your Ledger device screen, and initiate the transfer. Always verify addresses directly on the device to prevent any malware interference.
If you encounter any issues during setup, refer to the Help section within Ledger Live or check the official support documentation. Avoid contacting unofficial sources or communities that may not be trustworthy.