Introduction

Welcome — this guide is crafted to get you from unboxing to confidently using your Ledger hardware wallet. It’s colorful, clear, and intentionally practical. You’ll find step-by-step instructions, headings that map to common tasks (h1–h5 used sensibly), code examples where useful, and pointers back to the Official Site® for downloads and warranty details. For convenience we reference the official start URL multiple times throughout the article so you always have it handy.

What you’ll need before you start

  • Your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other Ledger model).
  • A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or compatible mobile device with Bluetooth for certain models.
  • A USB cable (usually provided) and a stable internet connection.
  • Pen and paper for your recovery phrase — or a metal backup if you prefer.

Why offline (cold) storage matters

Crypto private keys control access to your funds. By keeping the private keys on a hardware device that never exposes them to the internet, you dramatically reduce risk from remote attackers. The Ledger approach separates the key material (on the device) from the transaction signing and display (which you verify on the device screen).

Always download Ledger Live and follow first-run instructions from the Official Site®. Ledger’s start page includes model-specific instructions, downloads, and up-to-date security guidance.

Unboxing and first steps

What’s in the box (typical)

  1. Ledger hardware device
  2. USB cable
  3. Recovery sheets
  4. User guide and stickers

First power-on (general)

Turn the device on, follow the on-screen prompts to create a new wallet or restore an existing one. ALWAYS create a brand-new recovery phrase on the device — never input your seed phrase into a computer or phone. For step-by-step installers and the latest Ledger Live app, visit Official Site®.

Creating your wallet (step-by-step)

1) Choose a PIN

Choose a secure PIN you’ll remember. If you forget the PIN, you’ll need your recovery phrase to regain access. The device typically enforces a minimum length and may lock after incorrect attempts.

2) Write your recovery phrase

The device will show a 24-word recovery phrase (some models allow 12/18 words). Write these words down in order and store them in a safe, offline location. Consider using a metal backup plate for long-term durability. Ledger provides guidance and a recovery sheet in the packaging.

Important: recovery best practices

Never share your recovery phrase. Never type it into a website or app. If someone obtains it, they can fully control your funds.

3) Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live directly from the Official Site®. Ledger Live is the official companion app for managing accounts, installing apps on your device, and sending/receiving assets. After installing, open Ledger Live and follow the onboarding wizard to add your device.

// Example checklist (not executable code)
1. Download Ledger Live from Official Site® (https://www.ledger.com/start)
2. Open Ledger Live and follow onboarding
3. Pair or connect your Ledger device
4. Install apps for the coins you want to manage
5. Add accounts in Ledger Live

Ledger Live basics

Installing coin apps

Use the Manager tab to install the specific coin apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on your device. Each app uses a small amount of the device storage; install only what you need. Ledger Live will walk you through the process and verify the device prompts.

Adding accounts

In Ledger Live, go to Accounts > Add account, select the coin and follow the prompts to register an account linked to your device. Ledger Live reads public keys to present balances and transaction history while private keys remain on your device.

Sending & receiving cryptocurrency

Receiving

When receiving funds, generate the receive address from Ledger Live while your device is connected. Confirm the address on the device screen — the hardware device shows the address so you can verify it matches the one displayed in software. A mismatch is a red flag.

Sending

Compose transactions in Ledger Live and confirm the details on the device screen. The device will show the amount, destination address, and fees. Only sign if everything looks correct. Ledger Live will broadcast the signed transaction.

Security guidelines (practical)

Do: keep the recovery phrase offline

Store your seed words offline, ideally in multiple secure locations. Use fireproof and waterproof backups when possible.

Do: verify addresses on the device

Always use the device display for address verification. Phishing software can show the wrong address on your computer; the physical device display is the source of truth.

Don’t: share your seed

Ledger, customer support, or any legitimate service will never ask for your 24-word seed. If anyone requests it, treat them as malicious.

Common questions (FAQ)

What if I lose my Ledger device?

If you lose the device, you can restore access using your recovery phrase on a new compatible device. That’s why secure, offline storage of the seed is critical.

What if my Ledger device is damaged?

Restore your wallet on a new device using the recovery phrase. Ledger documentation on the Official Site® explains warranty and replacement processes for physical damage or defects.

Advanced topics

Using third-party wallets

Ledger works with many third-party wallets (defi interfaces, multisig, and explorers). When using third-party integrations, ensure you only connect via official, trusted sites and always verify actions on your Ledger device.

Passphrase (25th word) advanced option

Advanced users may enable a passphrase to create additional hidden wallets. This is powerful but increases the risk of permanent loss if the passphrase is forgotten. Use with extreme caution and document your configuration securely offline.

Troubleshooting

Device not recognized

Try a different cable, USB port, or computer. Check that Ledger Live is updated (official downloads at Official Site®). If problems persist, consult Ledger’s support pages.

Missing balance

Make sure you added the correct account in Ledger Live and installed the required app on your device. Ledger Live may need to synchronize the blockchain explorers it uses to show up-to-date balances.

Best practices — quick checklist

  • Order devices only from the Official Site®: Official Site®.
  • Create and store the recovery phrase offline.
  • Confirm addresses on the device screen before signing.
  • Keep device firmware and Ledger Live up to date via the official start page.
  • Consider using multiple backup methods for the recovery phrase.

Conclusion

Using a Ledger hardware wallet is among the most practical ways to improve the security of your crypto holdings. Follow the steps in this guide, keep your recovery phrase offline, and always verify operations on the device screen. When in doubt, refer back to the Official Site® for downloads, model-specific guides, and official support.

Need more help?

Ledger’s support portal and knowledge base are reachable from their start page. Bookmark it: Official Site®.