Get Started with Your Ledger Device
Welcome to your starting point for setting up and securing your Ledger device. This guide will walk you through everything you need to begin your crypto journey with confidence—from unboxing your device to managing your digital assets with maximum security. Whether you are new to crypto or upgrading your protection, this page will help you set up your Ledger hardware wallet quickly, safely, and correctly.
1. Unboxing and Preparing Your Ledger Device
When you first open your Ledger device package, you should see the device itself, a USB cable, recovery phrase sheets, and any included accessories. Before proceeding, verify that the device packaging is intact and has not been tampered with. Ledger devices are designed to be secure from the moment you receive them, and the device will always generate your recovery phrase internally. It will never come with a pre-written recovery phrase or require you to provide one from a third party.
Inspect your device, ensure it powers on properly, and get ready to begin the setup process.
2. Turn On Your Device and Begin Setup
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. When the device powers on, follow the instructions displayed on its screen. You will be guided to:
Select your preferred language
Read a brief introduction to the device
Begin creating or restoring a wallet
The device interface is simple and controlled by physical buttons, ensuring that all critical actions require your direct, physical confirmation.
3. Create a New Wallet
To start fresh, choose the option to create a new wallet. Your Ledger device will generate a unique recovery phrase, also known as a seed phrase. This recovery phrase is the backbone of your wallet’s security. It grants full access to your assets, so storing it safely is absolutely essential.
The device will display your recovery phrase word by word. Write each word down on the provided recovery sheets, in the correct order. Take your time—accuracy is critical.
Never take a photo of your recovery phrase.
Never type it into your phone or computer.
Never share it with anyone.
Your Ledger device is built to keep your private keys offline, and your recovery phrase should remain offline as well.
4. Confirm Your Recovery Phrase
After writing down your phrase, the device will ask you to confirm several words from it. This ensures you have copied the phrase correctly. This step is mandatory and helps prevent loss of access due to writing errors.
Once confirmed, your recovery phrase becomes the master key to your wallet. Make sure to store it in a secure, private location accessible only to you. Many users choose fireproof or waterproof storage solutions, or metal backup plates, to protect the phrase from physical damage.
5. Set a Secure PIN Code
Next, set up a PIN code for your device. This PIN protects your wallet from unauthorized physical access. Choose a code that is not easily guessable but still memorable to you. If anyone attempts to guess your PIN incorrectly too many times, the device will wipe itself for your security. In that case, you can restore your wallet using your recovery phrase.
Your PIN code is separate from your recovery phrase: the PIN protects the device, while the recovery phrase protects your assets.
6. Install the Ledger Companion App
To fully manage your crypto assets, you will use the companion application designed to work seamlessly with your Ledger device. Install it on your desktop or mobile device. This application allows you to:
Manage and install apps for various crypto assets
Send and receive cryptocurrencies
Monitor balances in real time
Connect with supported services and networks
Once installed, open the app and allow it to detect your Ledger device. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial pairing and setup.
7. Add Accounts and Manage Crypto
With your device and application ready, you can begin adding crypto accounts. Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage, install the appropriate app on your Ledger device, and then add an account inside the companion application.
Once your accounts are set up, you can:
Receive funds by generating a wallet address
Confirm all transactions physically on your device
Track your portfolio securely
Every transaction will require hardware confirmation, ensuring that your keys never leave your device and that no remote attacker can authorize a transfer on your behalf.
8. Explore Additional Security Features
Ledger devices offer several optional security layers to enhance protection. You may explore:
Passphrase features for advanced wallet segmentation
Additional verification methods
Secure connections with decentralized applications
Support for staking and other asset-management tools
These features help you expand your involvement in the crypto ecosystem while maintaining industry-leading security.
9. Keep Your Device and Software Updated
Regular firmware and application updates help keep your device safe and functioning smoothly. Always install updates through the official companion application and verify each action directly on your device.
10. You’re Ready to Begin
You’ve now completed the fundamental steps for starting with your Ledger device. With your hardware wallet properly set up, your recovery phrase safely stored, and your accounts added, you have taken an important step toward securing your digital assets.
Your Ledger device is more than just a wallet—it’s a powerful tool for protecting your financial future.
If you'd like, I can also create alternate versions such as shorter, more promotional, more technical, or tailored to Ledger Nano X / S Plus / Stax.