Welcome to the official Ledger setup guide. Follow these simple steps to securely set up your Ledger hardware wallet and start protecting your cryptocurrency assets with industry-leading security.
Carefully unbox your Ledger device and verify the tamper-evident seal is intact. Ensure all components are included: Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheet, and keychain strap.
Download and install Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. This desktop application will guide you through the setup process and manage your cryptocurrency portfolio.
Connect your Ledger to your computer and follow the on-screen instructions to initialize your device. Choose "Configure as new device" if this is your first Ledger.
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet and store it securely. This is your backup if the device is lost or damaged.
Create a secure PIN code to protect your device from unauthorized access. The PIN is entered using the device buttons and provides the first layer of security.
Use Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency applications (like Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your device. These apps enable you to manage different cryptocurrencies.
In Ledger Live, add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Your Ledger device will generate secure addresses for receiving funds.
Perform a test transaction with a small amount to ensure everything is working correctly. Verify that you can send and receive cryptocurrency securely.
The Original Hardware Wallet
Ledger Nano S is the world's most popular hardware wallet, providing secure storage for your cryptocurrency assets at an affordable price.
The Advanced Bluetooth Wallet
Ledger Nano X features Bluetooth connectivity for mobile use and increased storage capacity for managing more cryptocurrency applications.
The Revolutionary Touchscreen Wallet
Ledger Stax features a revolutionary E Ink touchscreen display and is designed by Tony Fadell, the creator of the iPod.
Following these security practices ensures your cryptocurrency remains protected against threats and unauthorized access.
If your Ledger device isn't being detected, try using a different USB cable, port, or computer. Ensure Ledger Live is installed and your device is unlocked.
If firmware updates fail, ensure your device has sufficient battery (Nano X/Stax), use the original cable, and try on a different computer if possible.
For Bluetooth issues, ensure Bluetooth is enabled, your device is charged, and you've granted necessary permissions in your mobile device settings.
Ledger Live is available for all major operating systems. Download the version compatible with your system to begin managing your cryptocurrency securely.
If you lose your Ledger device or it gets stolen, you can recover your funds using your 24-word recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. Your recovery phrase is the most important piece of information - it's your backup that allows you to restore your wallet on any new device. Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it with anyone. If you lose both your Ledger and recovery phrase, your funds will be permanently inaccessible. We recommend storing your recovery phrase in multiple secure physical locations to prevent total loss.
Yes, you can use your Ledger hardware wallet with multiple computers and mobile devices. Simply connect your Ledger to any computer with Ledger Live installed or pair it with the Ledger Live mobile app (for Nano X and Stax). Your private keys remain securely stored on the Ledger device itself, so you can safely access your funds from different devices without compromising security. Just ensure you're using genuine Ledger software and verify transactions on your device screen. Your accounts and transaction history will sync across devices if you enable synchronization in Ledger Live settings.
You should update your Ledger device firmware whenever a new version is available through Ledger Live. Firmware updates include important security patches, new features, and support for additional cryptocurrencies. Ledger Live will notify you when updates are available. The update process is simple and maintains your existing wallet configuration. Always ensure you have your recovery phrase backed up before performing firmware updates, though the process is designed to be safe and preserve your funds. Regular updates ensure you're protected against newly discovered vulnerabilities.
Ledger supports thousands of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and all major altcoins. The exact number depends on your Ledger model - Ledger Nano S supports over 1,800 cryptocurrencies while Ledger Nano X supports over 5,500. You can check the complete list of supported assets on the Ledger website. The team regularly adds support for new cryptocurrencies through firmware and application updates, ensuring your Ledger remains compatible with the evolving cryptocurrency ecosystem. Most ERC-20 tokens and other blockchain tokens are also supported through their respective applications.
We strongly recommend against purchasing used Ledger devices. While the devices themselves are secure when new, there's no way to verify if a used device has been tampered with or compromised. Always purchase Ledger hardware wallets directly from the official Ledger website or authorized resellers. New devices come with tamper-evident seals and packaging that verify their authenticity. The small savings from buying used aren't worth the risk to your cryptocurrency assets. If you must purchase a used device, reset it completely and ensure it generates a new recovery phrase during setup.
Start your journey to cryptocurrency security with Ledger. Follow our setup guide and join millions of users who trust Ledger with their digital assets.