Welcome to the Ledger Family
Whether you've just received your Ledger Nano X or Ledger Nano S Plus, you're about to take a giant leap forward in securing your digital assets. Ledger hardware wallets are the gold standard in self-custody. With Ledger, you own your crypto — not an exchange, not a third party — you.
This guide will walk you through every step of the process: from unboxing your device to setting it up at Ledger.com/start, and even understanding how to manage multiple assets securely.
Before You Begin
- A brand new Ledger hardware wallet (Nano X or Nano S Plus)
- Computer or smartphone with an internet connection
- USB-C cable or Bluetooth (Nano X only)
- Pen and Recovery Sheet (included in the box)
- About 15–20 minutes of quiet, uninterrupted time
Step 1: Unbox & Verify Authenticity
When you unbox your Ledger, ensure that the packaging is sealed and untampered. Ledger devices do NOT come pre-configured. If your device arrives with a recovery phrase or appears used — do NOT use it.
Go to Ledger.com/start and follow the official verification process to confirm your device’s authenticity. This ensures it's safe to continue with setup.
Step 2: Download Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app for managing your crypto assets. Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website.
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
- Allows you to install apps, add accounts, and manage coins
- Built-in swap, buy, and send features
Step 3: Initialize Your Ledger Device
After opening Ledger Live, select "Initialize as new device". You’ll follow on-screen instructions to:
- Choose a secure PIN code
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase (DO NOT take photos!)
- Confirm the words in order
This recovery phrase is your digital lifeline. Anyone with access to these 24 words can access your crypto. Keep them safe, offline, and private.
Step 4: Install Apps & Add Crypto Accounts
Once your device is initialized, you’ll use Ledger Live to install specific apps for each blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana). Then, add crypto accounts so you can start receiving and managing your assets securely.
- Ledger supports 5,500+ coins and tokens
- You can manage multiple wallets across chains
- Receive crypto directly to your wallet
Security Tips & Best Practices
- 🛡️ Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone
- 📄 Never store your seed on cloud, phone, or computer
- 🔐 Enable password lock and passphrase protection
- 📦 Buy ONLY from official Ledger sources
- 🧪 Regularly verify addresses before sending
Ledger empowers you to be your own bank, but that comes with responsibility. Practicing good security hygiene is just as important as the device itself.
Supported Assets
Ledger supports a massive variety of cryptocurrencies and tokens, including but not limited to:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH) and all ERC-20 tokens
- Solana (SOL), Cardano