How to Set Up Your Ledger Device: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction
Ledger devices are hardware wallets designed to securely store your cryptocurrencies and digital assets. Setting up your Ledger device is straightforward and ensures your assets are safe from online threats. Follow this guide to get started using ledger.com/start.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device

Carefully unbox your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X). Inside, you’ll find:

  • The Ledger device
  • USB cable (if applicable)
  • Recovery sheets
  • User manual

Ensure the box is sealed to confirm the device hasn’t been tampered with.

Step 2: Connect to a Computer or Mobile Device

  1. Plug the Ledger device into your computer or connect it to your mobile device via Bluetooth (for Bluetooth-enabled models).
  2. Visit ledger.com/start using a browser. This link will guide you to download Ledger Live, the official app for managing your wallet.

Step 3: Install Ledger Live

  1. Download Ledger Live from the official site for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS).
  2. Install and launch the app.
  3. Select "Get Started" and choose your Ledger device from the list.

Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Device

  1. Turn on the device by pressing the buttons simultaneously.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to set it up as a new device.
  3. Create a PIN code (4 to 8 digits) using the device buttons. Write down your PIN and do not share it.

Step 5: Back Up Your Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase.

  1. Write down the words on the recovery sheet in the exact order.
  2. Double-check for accuracy and store the sheet securely.
  3. Confirm the recovery phrase on the device as prompted.

⚠️ Important: Your recovery phrase is the key to your wallet. Do not share it with anyone or store it online.

Step 6: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

  1. Open Ledger Live and navigate to "Accounts."
  2. Click "Add Account" and select the cryptocurrency you want to manage.
  3. Follow the prompts to install the required app on your Ledger device.

Step 7: Transfer Your Assets

  1. Navigate to "Receive" in Ledger Live.
  2. Select the cryptocurrency account and verify the address displayed on your Ledger device.
  3. Use this address to transfer funds from an exchange or another wallet.

Step 8: Update Firmware Regularly

Keep your Ledger device updated to ensure optimal security and performance. Check for firmware updates in the Ledger Live app under "Manager."

Step 9: Enable Security Features

  1. Activate Ledger Live’s password lock.
  2. Consider enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.

Conclusion

Your Ledger hardware wallet is now set up and ready to secure your digital assets. Regularly update your device, follow best practices for recovery phrase storage, and manage your portfolio confidently with Ledger Live. For further assistance, visit ledger.com/start.