Ledger Start Guide — Securely Set Up Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Why choose a Ledger hardware wallet?

Ledger hardware wallets keep your private keys offline inside a secure chip, drastically reducing exposure to online threats. For anyone holding more than small day-to-day balances, a hardware wallet provides a strong layer of defense compared with custodial or hot-wallet solutions.

Before you begin — what you’ll need

• Your new Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other Ledger model) and the provided USB cable.
• A computer or smartphone compatible with Ledger Live (desktop or mobile application).
• A clean, private workspace and a durable way to record your recovery phrase (do not store it digitally).
• Time to follow the official guided setup and to verify addresses on the device screen.

Step-by-step setup

1. Unbox and inspect

Check packaging for tamper evidence and confirm the device matches the model you ordered. If anything looks suspicious, stop and contact official support before continuing.

2. Download Ledger Live (official source)

Download and install the official Ledger Live app on your computer or mobile device before connecting your device. Ledger Live is the companion app that guides initialization, app installation, account creation, and firmware updates. Always use the official Ledger Live download to avoid counterfeit software. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

3. Initialize the device

Connect the Ledger device using the supplied cable and follow the on-screen prompts on both the device and Ledger Live. You’ll choose whether to set up a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase. For new devices, a new recovery phrase will be generated on the device itself — never accept a recovery phrase provided by a third party. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

4. Record and secure your recovery phrase

The recovery phrase (usually 24 words) is the master backup of your wallet. Write the words exactly and in order on a physical backup sheet or a metal backup plate. Do not photograph, copy to cloud storage, or type it into a computer or phone. Store backups in secure, geographically separated locations where appropriate. Ledger provides guidance on how to manage and verify your recovery phrase — follow official recommendations. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

5. Set a PIN and optional passphrase

Create a strong PIN to protect local access to the device. Ledger also supports an optional passphrase (a private “25th word”) which can create hidden wallets; this increases security but must be remembered or stored securely, as loss means loss of access to funds protected by that passphrase. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

6. Install apps and add accounts

Within Ledger Live’s Manager, install the crypto apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) you need. Then add accounts in Ledger Live and open the corresponding app on your device when prompted to link and manage each account. Ledger Live supports many major coins and tokens; check the app for the current list of supported assets. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

7. Update firmware promptly and safely

After setup, check Ledger Live for firmware updates. Only apply firmware updates through Ledger Live’s official update flow. Firmware updates can include important security fixes and new features; follow the instructions exactly and verify prompts on the device. Never enter your recovery phrase to update firmware — if prompted for your seed during an update, disconnect and contact official support. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Using your Ledger securely

Always verify transaction details and receiving addresses on your Ledger device's screen before approving. Because the device shows addresses independently of your computer, it prevents address-hijacking malware from tricking you. Treat the device and recovery phrase as high-value secrets: physical theft, social-engineering, and careless backups are common causes of loss.

Backup & recovery best practices

Test recovery procedures with small amounts first. Consider metal backup products for durability against fire and water. Keep an emergency plan: decide who has access in the event of incapacity, and how inheritance or multi-person custody should be handled — but never reveal full recovery data to anyone you do not fully trust. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Troubleshooting & support

If your device does not connect, try a different cable, USB port, or computer; ensure Ledger Live is up to date. If you suspect an issue or a security red flag (unexpected prompts for your seed, suspicious firmware behavior), stop and contact Ledger support via official channels. If your device is lost or damaged, restore using your recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or a compatible BIP39-compatible wallet only after verifying authenticity. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

SEO tips for readers

When looking for setup help, search phrases like “Ledger setup guide”, “install Ledger Live”, “Ledger recovery phrase”, and “update Ledger firmware” to quickly find official documentation and support pages. Prioritize official Ledger resources and verified community tutorials.