Step-by-step Hardware Wallet Setup
Secure setup starts with unboxing and verifying your Ledger hardware wallet. Follow our official stepwise process to ensure your device is genuine, initialize it safely, and configure a strong PIN.
- Inspect packaging and holographic seals for tampering.
- Connect Ledger Nano X, Ledger Nano S Plus, or Ledger Nano S to your computer.
- Download and install the latest Ledger Live desktop app.
- Install device firmware via Ledger Live; auto-update secures your hardware.
- Create a backup seed phrase offline; store it safely and never digitalize.
Using Ledger Live for Crypto Management
Ledger Live is your centralized app for managing thousands of cryptocurrencies securely from desktop or mobile. Access wallets, send and receive crypto, buy and sell assets, stake coins, and view detailed portfolio analytics all in one place.
- Download Ledger Live at ledger.com/live for desktop or mobile.
- Connect and unlock your Ledger device for secure access.
- Add accounts for supported cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.
- Trade, swap, and stake within the app powered by trusted providers.
- Receive real-time market tracking and portfolio insights.
Robust Security for Your Crypto Assets
Ledger combines encrypted Ledger Live software with industry-leading hardware wallet technology. Private keys never leave your Secure Element chip, preventing vulnerabilities from hacks, phishing, or malware. Additional features like transaction verification on device screens increase safety.
- Secure Element chip stores private keys offline with certified protection.
- PIN code and passphrase add extra layers of security.
- Transaction approval is mandatory on the physical device screen.
- Regular firmware and app updates protect against new threats.
Backup & Recovery: Protect Your Access
Keeping your recovery phrase secure is critical to crypto ownership. Ledger’s backup process generates a 24-word seed phrase — securely store offline. Recovery allows wallet restoration if device is lost or damaged.
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase exactly in order.
- Store backup phrases in a secure, physical location (do not digitize).
- Use recovery to restore access to your crypto on a new Ledger device when necessary.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering setup or connection challenges? Our Getting Started Hub covers frequent questions and fixes to enable a smooth start with Ledger hardware and Ledger Live.
- Device not detected? Try reconnecting USB & restarting app.
- Firmware update fails? Disable firewall or antivirus temporarily.
- Seed phrase lost? Contact Ledger support immediately for guidance.
- Ledger Live crashing? Ensure latest app version and OS compatibility.
Expert Support & Community Help
Get help from Ledger’s dedicated support team or join the global community forums and knowledge base. Personalized onboarding is available for new users seeking hands-on guidance.
- Visit ledger.com/support for official guides and FAQs.
- Join the Ledger community chats and forums for peer support.
- Book 1-on-1 onboarding sessions for personalized walkthroughs.