If you’ve just purchased a Ledger hardware wallet and are ready to secure your digital assets, this 1500-word guide offers a clear, beginner-friendly path to getting started. Learn how to unbox, install, configure, and safely use your Ledger wallet without missing a step — even if you're completely new to crypto security.
Cryptocurrency ownership comes with the responsibility of protecting your private keys. As long as your private keys are secure, your crypto remains safe. Ledger hardware wallets simplify this responsibility by storing your keys offline — far away from hackers, viruses, and phishing attempts that target online wallets and exchanges.
With Ledger, you alone control your keys, meaning you don’t rely on exchanges or custodial services. The device’s secure element ensures that every transaction must be physically confirmed on the hardware wallet itself, eliminating the risk of unauthorized transfers.
To complete the Ledger setup process smoothly, gather the following items before you start:
When opening your Ledger box, ensure that the device and packaging appear factory-sealed and untampered. Inside, you should find the hardware wallet, a USB cable (for non-Bluetooth models), a quick-start card, and blank recovery phrase sheets.
If the recovery phrase card is pre-filled or the packaging seems suspicious, do not continue — contact Ledger support immediately.
Ledger Live is the official Ledger wallet management application. It serves as your dashboard for installing crypto apps, updating firmware, managing accounts, and sending or receiving crypto.
Connect your device via the included USB cable or pair via Bluetooth (Nano X only). The screen will light up and display a welcome message. Use the device’s buttons to navigate and confirm selections.
Most users should choose Set up as new device.
You will now create a PIN code, which acts as the primary lock for your Ledger. Only people who know this PIN can access your wallet's interface.
Tips for choosing a PIN:
Your Ledger will now generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This phrase is the ultimate backup of your crypto wallet. If your device is lost or damaged, the recovery phrase is the only way to restore access to your assets.
How to safely handle your recovery phrase:
Ledger will ask you to verify selected words from your recovery phrase to ensure accuracy. This step is essential — even one incorrect letter could prevent you from restoring your wallet in the future.
If any word doesn’t match, recheck your writing or restart the process to avoid risking your funds.
Return to Ledger Live and follow the additional prompts to complete setup. Ledger Live will confirm that your device is authentic using its secure element attestation system.
Next, go to the Manager section and install the apps corresponding to the cryptocurrencies you plan to store. For example:
In Ledger Live, crypto accounts represent your wallet addresses. You must add an account before you can receive or send crypto.
Receiving crypto is simple — but always verify the address on your device to avoid malware manipulation.
Sending crypto with Ledger protects you from unauthorized transfers because the device requires physical confirmation.
Once confirmed, the transaction is broadcast to the blockchain.
Advanced users can add a passphrase to create a hidden wallet. This provides an extra layer of protection but must be used carefully, as forgetting the passphrase results in lost access.
Some investors use multiple Ledger devices to diversify risk or separate holdings. This is optional but worthwhile for large portfolios.
Try another USB cable or port, restart your device, or update Ledger Live.
Reset the device and restore using your recovery phrase.
If you still have access to the device, move your crypto to a new wallet immediately and generate a new recovery phrase.