Follow this clear, beginner‑friendly checklist to initialize your Ledger hardware wallet safely. This is an educational resource and is not affiliated with Ledger®. Always double‑check you’re on the correct website and never share your 24‑word recovery phrase.
Phishing is the #1 risk during wallet setup. Type addresses directly into your browser. Bookmark trusted pages you use frequently.
This is an independent, educational walkthrough inspired by the flow at ledger.com/start. It helps you prepare, avoid common mistakes, and follow best practices.
Supported models include Nano S Plus and Nano X. Ensure the box is sealed and purchase from an official retailer.
Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux. Mobile: iOS/Android for Nano X via Bluetooth or cable (where supported).
Do the backup privately. Keep cameras away. Avoid public Wi‑Fi; use a trusted network or a hardware firewall if available.
Download and install the Ledger Live application for your OS. Open it and choose Set up a new device to begin the guided flow.
Connect the Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth on Nano X). Follow on‑screen instructions to initialize.
Pick a PIN that you can remember but others cannot guess. Avoid birthdays, simple patterns, or reused pins.
Write each word on the card provided (or a metal backup). Keep the backup offline and private.
In Ledger Live, run the Genuine Check to verify the secure element and update to the latest firmware.
Use Ledger Live’s My Ledger to install coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts for each asset you plan to use.
Before moving large funds, test with a small amount. Compare the address on the device screen with Ledger Live before confirming.
When sending, confirm amount and destination address on the device. Never approve blind signing you don’t understand.
Consider passphrase (25th word) and multisig. These features increase security but also complexity—practice recovery first.
Conduct a recovery drill with a spare device or test wallet. Confirm that your written words restore the same accounts.
Your 24‑word phrase is the wallet. Anyone with it controls your funds.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated. Harden your computer against malware.
Approve only what you understand. On‑device verification is the source of truth.
Use a dedicated browser profile or separate computer for DeFi/NFT activity.
| Platform | Connection | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 10/11 | USB | Install drivers if prompted by Ledger Live. |
| macOS 12+ | USB | Grant USB/Files access if asked. |
| Linux (Udev) | USB | Apply udev rules for device permissions. |
| Android | USB‑OTG / Bluetooth (Nano X) | Use official Ledger Live Mobile. |
| iOS/iPadOS | Bluetooth (Nano X) | Use official Ledger Live Mobile. |
| Scenario | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| High‑value holdings | Enable with care; practice restores first. |
| Shared living space | Use passphrase or split backup strategy. |
| Traveling often | Consider a duress wallet with small amount. |
| New to hardware wallets | Start without passphrase; add later. |
Try a different USB port/cable and avoid USB hubs. On Windows, update USB drivers. On Linux, install udev rules. Ensure the device is unlocked with your PIN and on the home screen.
Close other apps, keep the cable connected, and retry from My Ledger. If interrupted, reconnect, open Ledger Live, and follow prompts to complete or roll back safely.
Confirm you’re on the correct network (e.g., Ethereum mainnet vs a testnet). Verify the address on your device screen—the device view is authoritative. Reconnect via Ledger Live or the official bridge.
Funds remain safe if your PIN is strong. Acquire a new Ledger and restore with the same 24 words. If your seed may be exposed, move funds to a new wallet immediately after restoring.
Toggle airplane mode off/on, forget the device in OS settings, and pair again from Ledger Live Mobile. Keep the device close; avoid crowded 2.4GHz environments.
Ledger Live is the companion app for managing accounts, installing coin apps, updating firmware, and verifying device authenticity. It connects to your hardware wallet to sign transactions securely.
Keep the words offline and private, ideally in two separate secure locations. Many users choose a metal backup for durability against fire or water.
Ledger supports a wide range of assets through apps. Some assets are managed through third‑party wallets integrated with Ledger Live. Always check compatibility before moving funds.
The device signs transactions offline. Your computer or phone needs internet to broadcast and sync, but your keys never leave the device.
No. This educational page is independent and not affiliated with Ledger SAS. For official resources, manually type ledger.com/start into your browser.
A list of 12–24 words that deterministically recreates all your accounts. Keep offline and secret.
A short code to unlock your device. Protects against casual access, not seed compromise.
Low‑level software on the device. Updates may add features or security fixes.
Comparing the receive address on device vs app. Trust the device display.
An optional extra word that derives a separate wallet from your seed. Advanced users only.
Transactions require multiple signatures from different keys/devices; improves redundancy.