Quick Start: Ledger Wallet setup & essentials

This guide helps you set up your new Ledger Wallet (Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S), install Ledger Live, and protect your assets. Follow the steps below to initialize your hardware wallet, create a PIN, record your recovery phrase, update firmware, and connect safely to exchanges and apps.

  1. 1

    Unbox & Inspect

    Confirm packaging is sealed. Only download Ledger Live from the official site. Avoid third-party downloads to keep Ledger Wallet secure.
  2. 2

    Install Ledger Live

    Install Ledger Live on your computer or mobile. Ledger Live is the official app that manages accounts, firmware updates, and integrates with Ledger Wallet hardware.
  3. 3

    Initialize device & set PIN

    Connect the Ledger Wallet, follow on-screen prompts to create a PIN. Never share your PIN. Choose a PIN you can remember but not easily guessable.
  4. 4

    Write down your Recovery Phrase

    Ledger Wallet will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it on the provided card and store it offline in a safe place. This is the only backup for your crypto wallets.
  5. 5

    Install apps & add accounts

    Use Ledger Live to install coin-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) then add accounts. Your private keys always stay on the Ledger Wallet.
  6. 6

    Keep firmware & Ledger Live updated

    Regular updates protect against vulnerabilities. Only update via Ledger Live official prompts to keep your Ledger Wallet, Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S secure.
  7. 7

    Best safety practices

    Never share your recovery phrase or PIN, avoid entering your recovery phrase online, and verify addresses on the device display before confirming transactions.

Why choose a Ledger Wallet?

A hardware wallet like Ledger Wallet stores private keys offline. Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S are engineered to reduce online attack vectors and keep your crypto secure even when your computer is compromised. Using Ledger Live with your Ledger device gives a reliable and auditable way to manage crypto while keeping keys on the hardware.

Quick checklist:
  • Download Ledger Live from official source
  • Create a strong PIN on the device
  • Record and secure your 24-word recovery phrase
  • Install apps for coins you use and keep firmware updated