H2 — Quick checklist: What you'll need
Before you begin, gather these items. Preparation saves time and prevents mistakes during the setup process.
- Ledger device (Nano S Plus / Nano X)
- Computer or mobile device with the latest Ledger Live app installed
- USB cable (included) or Bluetooth for Nano X
- Pen and the included recovery sheet (or a secure steel backup)
- Quiet, private space—no screenshots, no photos
H3 — Safety-first reminders
Don’t share your recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger will never ask for your 24-word phrase. Never enter it on a website or app. Store it offline.
H2 — Step-by-step setup
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Unbox & inspect
Check the tamper-evident seal is intact, and verify the device model. If anything looks suspicious, contact support via the official support channel.
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Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live for your operating system from the official site. Install it, then choose “Get Started.”
https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live -
Create a new device
Follow on-screen instructions. Choose “Set up as new device” unless you are restoring from a previous backup.
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Choose a PIN
Pick a strong PIN (6–8 digits or longer if supported). Memorize it — do not store the PIN with your recovery phrase.
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Write your recovery phrase
The device will display your 24-word recovery phrase. Write each word in order on the provided sheet, double-check spellings and order.
H4 — Backup tips
- Use at least two secure offline copies (e.g., one steel plate backup and one paper copy kept separately).
- Never photograph or store the phrase digitally.
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Confirm the phrase
Your Ledger will ask you to confirm a few random words from the phrase — this verifies you copied them correctly.
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Install apps & add accounts
Open Ledger Live, install the apps for cryptocurrencies you want (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), and add accounts to view balances.
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Perform a small test transaction
Receive a small amount first, then send it back to confirm everything works as expected before moving larger sums.
H2 — Backup & recovery (the non-negotiables)
Backing up your recovery phrase correctly is the most critical security step. If you lose both your device and your recovery phrase, your funds are permanently inaccessible.
H3 — Where to store backups
- Primary backup: the recovery sheet stored in a fire-resistant safe
- Secondary backup: a steel backup plate stored in a separate secure location (bank safe deposit box, trusted location)
- Consider geographically separated backups if you hold significant assets
H4 — What NOT to do
- Don’t store the phrase in cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox).
- Don’t email or photograph the phrase.
- Don’t share the phrase with anyone claiming to be “support”.
H2 — Daily use: sending, receiving, and updating
H3 — Receiving crypto
Generate an address in your Ledger Live account, confirm the address on your device screen, and then send funds to that address. Always confirm the full address on-screen — NEVER rely only on the computer display.
H3 — Sending crypto
Create the transaction in Ledger Live, verify details (amount, fees, recipient), then approve the transaction physically on your device. Approve only if everything matches.
H3 — Firmware & app updates
Keep your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live software up to date. Firmware updates often include essential security improvements.
Use the official update flow inside Ledger Live. If an update fails, follow official troubleshooting steps from the support center.
H2 — Advanced tips & best practices
H3 — Use passphrases (optional)
Advanced users may add a passphrase (25th word) to create a hidden wallet. This provides extra privacy and an additional security layer but increases complexity. Only use it if you understand the trade-offs and store passphrases securely.
H3 — Multi-device strategy
For high-value holdings, consider splitting funds across multiple devices and accounts to limit single-point-of-failure risk.
H3 — Keep software minimal
Only install the apps you need. Avoid third-party add-ons unless they’re widely audited and reputable.
H2 — Troubleshooting & official support
If anything looks wrong (unexpected prompts, corrupted recovery sheet, or unverified firmware), stop and consult the official resources immediately. Use the following official channels:
H4 — Common issues
- Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable or port; check for driver/OS permissions.
- Lost device but have recovery phrase: Purchase a new Ledger, restore using the recovery phrase through the setup flow.
- Lost recovery phrase and device: Funds cannot be recovered — that’s why backups are essential.
H2 — Final checklist (copy this)
- ✅ Device sealed on arrival
- ✅ Ledger Live installed from official site
- ✅ PIN set and memorized
- ✅ 24-word recovery written and verified
- ✅ Recovery stored offline and duplicated securely
- ✅ Performed a small test transaction
- ✅ Firmware and apps updated
Pro Tip: Consider a steel backup product and store backups in separate, secure geographic locations. If you need step-by-step recovery or verification help, start at the Ledger Start page.