Official Ledger Setup Guide

Start Your Secure Crypto Journey

Set up your Ledger hardware wallet in minutes. Protect Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 15,000+ cryptocurrencies with bank-level security that puts you in complete control.

Industry-leading Secure Element chip protection
Support for 15,000+ cryptocurrencies and tokens
Offline storage keeps your private keys secure
Trusted by 6M+ users worldwide
99.99% uptime since 2014

Ledger Nano X

Ready to Start

100% Secure
15,000+ Coins

Complete Setup Guide

Follow these simple steps to set up your Ledger hardware wallet and start securing your cryptocurrency portfolio. The entire process takes about 30 minutes.

Step 1
2-3 minutes

Unbox Your Ledger Device

Carefully unpack your Ledger hardware wallet and verify all components are included. Check the integrity seals to ensure your device hasn't been tampered with.

Ledger hardware wallet device
USB-C cable (or USB-A to micro-USB)
Getting started leaflet
Recovery phrase sheets

Pro Tip

Never use a device if the packaging appears damaged or pre-opened.

Step 1
Unbox Your Ledger Device
1
Step 2
5-10 minutes

Install Ledger Live

Download and install the official Ledger Live application on your computer or mobile device. This is your gateway to managing your cryptocurrencies securely.

Visit ledger.com/ledger-live for official download
Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
Verify the download authenticity
Install following the setup wizard

Pro Tip

Always download Ledger Live from the official website to avoid malicious software.

Download Ledger Live
Step 2
Install Ledger Live
2
Step 3
5 minutes

Initialize Your Device

Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions. You'll set up a PIN code and choose between setting up as a new device or restoring from a recovery phrase.

Connect device to computer via USB
Press both buttons to power on
Choose 'Set up as new device'
Create a 4-8 digit PIN code

Pro Tip

Choose a PIN that's memorable but not easily guessable. You'll need it every time you use your device.

Step 3
Initialize Your Device
3
Step 4
10-15 minutes

Write Down Recovery Phrase

Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words down in the exact order on the provided recovery sheets. This is your master key to your crypto.

Write down all 24 words in order
Double-check each word for accuracy
Store in multiple secure locations
Never share or store digitally

Pro Tip

Your recovery phrase is the only way to restore access if you lose your device. Store it safely offline.

Step 4
Write Down Recovery Phrase
4
Step 5
5 minutes

Install Crypto Apps

Use Ledger Live to install cryptocurrency applications for the coins you want to manage. Each cryptocurrency requires its own app to be installed on your device.

Open Ledger Live Manager
Search for cryptocurrency apps
Install apps for your preferred coins
Apps install directly to your device

Pro Tip

Your Ledger can hold 3-20+ apps depending on your model. You can uninstall and reinstall apps anytime.

Step 5
Install Crypto Apps
5

Ready to Start?

Join millions of users who trust Ledger to protect their crypto assets. Start your setup today and take control of your digital wealth.

Uncompromising Security

Ledger hardware wallets provide the highest level of security for your cryptocurrency. Our multi-layered approach ensures your digital assets remain safe from all types of threats.

Secure Element Chip

Bank-grade security chip

Ledger devices use a certified Secure Element (CC EAL5+) - the same technology used in credit cards and passports. This dedicated chip isolates and protects your private keys from sophisticated attacks.

Common Criteria EAL5+ certification
Protection against physical tampering
Isolation from device firmware
Certified by third-party security labs

Military-grade protection for your crypto assets

6M+

Users trust Ledger worldwide

$500B+

In crypto assets secured

10+

Years of proven security

Security You Can Trust

Join millions of users who've chosen Ledger for the highest level of cryptocurrency security. Your digital assets deserve the best protection.

Learn More About Our Security

Choose Your Perfect Device

Every Ledger device provides the same level of security. Choose based on your feature preferences, budget, and how you plan to use your hardware wallet.

Stax™
4.8(892 reviews)

Ledger Stax™

$399
Starting price
Best for: Advanced users & DeFi

The premium Ledger device with the largest screen and most advanced features. Perfect for serious crypto investors and DeFi enthusiasts.

3.7" E Ink touchscreen
Wireless charging
Bluetooth connectivity
Advanced security
Free worldwide shipping
3-year warranty
30-day return

Quick Comparison

DevicePriceScreenConnectivityBest For
Ledger Stax™
4.8
$3993.7" E Ink touchscreen
Advanced users & DeFi
Ledger Flex™
4.7
$2492.8" curved E Ink screen
Most crypto users
Ledger Nano X
4.5
$149Bluetooth enabled
Mobile users
Ledger Nano S Plus
4.4
$79100+ app capacity
Budget-conscious beginners

Still Not Sure Which Device to Choose?

Our device comparison tool helps you find the perfect Ledger hardware wallet based on your specific needs and preferences.

Use Device Comparison Tool
Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know

Get answers to the most common questions about setting up and using your Ledger hardware wallet. Still have questions? Our support team is here to help.

Ledger.com/Start is your comprehensive guide to setting up and using your Ledger hardware wallet. To get started, first purchase a Ledger device from the official Ledger website, then download Ledger Live (the official application), and follow our step-by-step setup guide. The entire process takes about 30 minutes and includes device initialization, PIN creation, recovery phrase backup, and installing your first cryptocurrency apps.

Official Setup Guide

Hardware wallets provide the highest level of security for cryptocurrency storage. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, Ledger devices store your private keys offline in a secure chip, making them immune to online hacking attempts, malware, and phishing attacks. With over $500 billion in crypto assets lost to hacks and scams, a hardware wallet like Ledger is essential for serious crypto investors who want complete control and security over their digital assets.

Learn About Hardware Wallets

Ledger supports over 15,000 cryptocurrencies and tokens, including all major coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, and thousands of ERC-20 tokens, NFTs, and DeFi tokens. The list includes popular cryptocurrencies like Solana, Cardano, Polkadot, Chainlink, and many others. You can manage multiple cryptocurrencies on a single device, and new coins are regularly added through Ledger Live updates.

View All Supported Assets

If you lose your Ledger device or it gets damaged, your cryptocurrency is completely safe as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase. You can purchase a new Ledger device (or use any BIP39-compatible wallet), enter your recovery phrase, and regain full access to all your crypto assets. This is why it's crucial to write down and securely store your recovery phrase during the initial setup - it's your master key to your funds.

Recovery Guide

No, you should only buy Ledger devices from the official Ledger website (ledger.com) or authorized retailers. Third-party sellers may sell tampered devices that could compromise your security. Always verify the packaging integrity, check for official seals, and ensure the device generates its own recovery phrase during setup. Ledger devices bought from unofficial sources may be pre-compromised or counterfeit.

Find Authorized Retailers

Genuine Ledger devices have several security features: unopened packaging with official seals, the device generates its own 24-word recovery phrase (never comes pre-written), and you can verify authenticity through Ledger Live when connecting. During setup, the device will display a security check. Never use a device that comes with a pre-written recovery phrase or has damaged packaging. Ledger Live will also verify the device's authenticity when you first connect it.

Verify Device Authenticity

Still Need Help?

Our comprehensive support center and community forums have detailed guides for every aspect of using your Ledger device. Get help from our expert support team and fellow users.

💡 Expert Tip

Always verify your recovery phrase by writing it down and confirming it during setup. This phrase is your only backup if your device is lost or damaged.

🔒 Security Reminder

Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone. Ledger will never ask for this information. Always keep your device firmware updated through Ledger Live.