Your Journey to Secure Crypto Begins Here
Welcome to the world of secure digital asset management with Ledger. Your new Ledger hardware wallet is more than just a device; it's a personal vault designed to protect your private keys offline, away from hackers and malicious software. This guide will take you step-by-step through the entire setup process, from unboxing your device to making your first transaction with confidence. To begin, you must access the official starting point at **Ledger.com/Start®**. It is imperative that you **manually type this address** into your browser's URL bar to avoid falling victim to phishing scams. This page is the only secure location to download the essential software, **Ledger Live**, which you will need to manage your device.
Our commitment to security is paramount. Every step of this guide is crafted to ensure your assets are protected from the moment you unbox your device. Take your time, read each instruction carefully, and remember that with self-custody comes the responsibility of managing your own security. We are here to help you every step of the way, but your vigilance is the ultimate safeguard.
Step 1: Unbox and Verify Your Device
Before you even connect your Ledger to your computer, you must perform a thorough physical inspection to ensure the package has not been tampered with. This initial check is a critical layer of defense against supply-chain attacks.
What to Look For:
- Security Seals: Your Ledger box comes with a tamper-evident seal. Check that this seal is intact and shows no signs of having been broken, lifted, or re-glued. If the seal is compromised, do not proceed. Contact Ledger Support immediately.
- Physical Condition: Inspect the device itself for any scratches, signs of disassembly, or a USB port that appears to have been used. A new device should look pristine.
- Package Contents: Ensure all components are present, including the Ledger device, a USB cable, a keychain strap, and the essential recovery phrase sheets. You will need these sheets later for the most crucial step of the setup. For a detailed guide, please refer to our article on Unboxing your Ledger Nano X.
Step 2: Downloading and Installing Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that serves as the secure interface for your hardware wallet. It allows you to manage your crypto assets, install apps on your device, check your balances, and more.
- Download from Official Site: Go to the official download page at Ledger.com/Live and download the application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Always use this official link to prevent downloading malicious software.
- Run the Installer: Launch the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation process is quick and sets up all necessary components.
- Launch Ledger Live: Once the installation is complete, open the Ledger Live application. It will guide you through connecting and initializing your new device.
Your Ledger device must communicate with Ledger Live to function properly. The application facilitates this communication securely, ensuring that your private keys never leave your device.
Step 3: Device Initialization and Recovery Phrase Backup
This is the most important part of the entire setup process. Your Ledger device will generate a unique set of cryptographic keys offline, and you will create the only backup you will ever have: your recovery phrase.
- Connect and Get Started: Plug your Ledger device into your computer and follow the prompts in Ledger Live. Select "Initialize as new device."
- Choose a PIN: Your Ledger's screen will prompt you to choose a PIN code. Use the device's physical buttons to navigate and confirm your PIN. This PIN is a physical lock for your device, protecting it from unauthorized access. Your PIN is not a substitute for your recovery phrase and does not protect your crypto if your device is compromised.
Writing Down Your Recovery Phrase:
Your Ledger device's screen will now display a series of 24 words, one at a time. This is your **Recovery Phrase**. It is a hierarchical deterministic (HD) backup of all your private keys. **This is your master key.**
- Write Them Down: Carefully and clearly write down each of the 24 words in the correct order on the recovery phrase sheets provided in the box.
- Do NOT Take Photos: Never take a photo of your recovery phrase, type it into a computer, email it to yourself, or store it in any online service. It must remain offline and physical.
- Double-Check: Your Ledger device will ask you to confirm a few words from your recovery phrase to ensure you have written them down correctly. This is an essential check to prevent mistakes.
WARNING: Your recovery phrase is the single most important piece of information for your crypto security. If you lose it, you lose access to your funds. If someone else gets it, they can steal your crypto. Store it in a **safe, secure, and private location offline**. You can learn more about this on our guide on how to keep your 24-word recovery phrase secure.
Step 4: Installing Apps and Managing Your Assets
Once your device is set up and secured, you can begin managing your assets. To interact with a specific cryptocurrency, you must first install its dedicated application on your Ledger device. This is done through the "Manager" section in Ledger Live.
- Navigate to the Manager: In the Ledger Live sidebar, click on the "Manager" tab. This will show you all available applications.
- Install an App: Search for the cryptocurrency you want to manage, for example, Bitcoin or Ethereum. Click the "Install" button next to the app. Your Ledger device will display "Processing..." as it installs the app securely.
- Add an Account: Once the app is installed, go back to the "Accounts" section in Ledger Live. Click the "+ Add account" button. The application will prompt you to select the cryptocurrency and your Ledger device will connect. Ledger Live will then sync with the blockchain to generate your new public address. For a step-by-step guide, check out our guide on how to add your first account.
This process must be repeated for every different cryptocurrency you want to manage. For example, to add a Bitcoin account, you must install the Bitcoin app. Similarly, for Ethereum, you will need the Ethereum app. The process is simple, secure, and gives you granular control over your device's storage.
Key Security and Best Practices
Your Ledger device is a powerful tool, but your vigilance is the ultimate security layer.
- The Ledger Screen is Your Friend: Always confirm transaction details on your device's screen. If the information on the screen does not match what is on your computer, cancel the transaction immediately.
- Official Links Only: Always use official Ledger software and websites. Be suspicious of unsolicited messages or links.
- Firmware Updates: Keep your device's firmware up to date through Ledger Live. These updates are essential for security and to unlock new features. You can find more information on Firmware Updates.
Troubleshooting and Additional Resources
If you encounter any issues, don't worry. Ledger has a vast support network to assist you. Here are some common issues and where to find help:
- Device Not Detected: Ensure you are using the original USB cable and that Ledger Live has the necessary permissions. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix this. You can find detailed troubleshooting steps on the Ledger Support site.
- My App is Not Responding: Close Ledger Live and any other crypto-related applications, then try again.
- I Lost My Recovery Phrase: If you lose your recovery phrase, there is no way for Ledger or anyone else to recover your funds. This is a critical security feature, not a bug. Your funds are truly in your hands.
For more in-depth knowledge about cryptocurrencies and security, visit the Ledger Academy. To explore other products in the Ledger family, visit our products page. If you have any questions, our support team is ready to assist you.