Your official guide to setting up your Ledger hardware wallet. Follow our secure step-by-step process to protect your cryptocurrency assets with enterprise-grade security.
Unpack your Ledger device and connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable
Download and install Ledger Live desktop application from the official website
Set up your PIN and generate your 24-word recovery phrase for maximum security
Install cryptocurrency apps and create accounts to start managing your assets
Follow these detailed steps to securely set up your Ledger hardware wallet
Carefully unbox your new Ledger hardware wallet and verify all components are present and authentic.
Always purchase Ledger devices from the official Ledger website or authorized resellers. Check that your device packaging is sealed and the device shows no signs of tampering.
Install the official Ledger Live application on your desktop computer to manage your cryptocurrency portfolio.
Set up your Ledger hardware wallet by configuring your PIN and generating your recovery phrase.
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Never share it with anyone, never take photos of it, and store it in a secure offline location. This phrase can restore your entire wallet if your device is lost or damaged.
Add support for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage by installing their respective applications.
Set up cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live to start receiving and managing your digital assets.
Complete your security configuration and begin using your Ledger hardware wallet.
Select the perfect hardware wallet for your cryptocurrency security needs
Premium hardware wallet with Bluetooth connectivity and large storage capacity
Essential hardware wallet with improved storage and sleek design
Ledger hardware wallets provide military-grade protection for your cryptocurrency assets
Your private keys are generated and stored in a certified secure element, the same technology used in passports and credit cards.
Every Ledger device is protected by a user-defined PIN code that wipes the device after 3 incorrect attempts.
Your 24-word recovery phrase allows you to restore your entire wallet on any compatible device if needed.
All transactions must be physically verified on your device screen, preventing malware from altering details.
Ledger devices cryptographically verify all firmware installations, ensuring only authentic software runs.
Ledger doesn't require personal information for basic functionality, respecting your financial privacy.
Join millions of users worldwide who trust Ledger hardware wallets to protect their cryptocurrency assets with enterprise-grade security.
Begin Setup NowFind answers to common questions about Ledger hardware wallet setup and security
The complete Ledger hardware wallet setup typically takes 15-30 minutes for most users. This includes unboxing your device, installing Ledger Live desktop application, initializing your device with a PIN and recovery phrase, installing cryptocurrency applications, and creating your first accounts. The process is designed to be straightforward while ensuring maximum cryptocurrency security through proper setup and verification steps.
The Ledger Nano X features Bluetooth connectivity for use with mobile devices, a larger screen, built-in battery for portability, and capacity for 100+ applications. The Ledger Nano S Plus offers enhanced storage compared to the original Nano S, USB-C connectivity, sleek design, and support for 100+ applications but lacks Bluetooth and battery. Both provide the same enterprise-grade security through the secure element chip. The Nano X is ideal for users who want mobile flexibility, while the Nano S Plus offers excellent value for desktop users.
Yes, you can fully recover your cryptocurrency wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase on any new Ledger device or compatible hardware wallet. This is why securely storing your recovery phrase is crucial - it represents complete access to your funds. The recovery process involves initializing a new device and selecting the "Restore from recovery phrase" option, then entering your 24 words in the correct order. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone and store it in multiple secure offline locations.
Yes, Ledger hardware wallets are compatible with many third-party cryptocurrency wallets and services including MetaMask, MyEtherWallet, Electrum, and others through the Ledger Connect feature. This flexibility allows you to use your Ledger device with your preferred cryptocurrency interfaces while maintaining the security of hardware-based private key storage. However, for the most secure and integrated experience, we recommend using Ledger Live as your primary interface for managing your cryptocurrency portfolio.
You should install firmware updates whenever they become available through Ledger Live. Ledger regularly releases updates that include security enhancements, new cryptocurrency support, feature improvements, and bug fixes. The update process is simple and guided through Ledger Live, ensuring your hardware wallet maintains the highest security standards for protecting your cryptocurrency assets. We recommend checking for updates monthly and always using the latest firmware version.