Complete Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

Secure your cryptocurrency with step-by-step instructions for Ledger Live and hardware wallet setup

⚠️ Security Warning

Only download Ledger Live from the official website: ledger.com. Never enter your recovery phrase on any website or share it with anyone. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app for all Ledger hardware wallets. Download it only from the official Ledger website.

Official Download Links

Desktop
Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile
iOS & Android
Verified
8M+ users

Installation Steps:

  1. Visit ledger.com/start in your web browser
  2. Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android)
  3. Download the official Ledger Live application
  4. Install the application following your system's standard installation process
  5. Launch Ledger Live and verify the app's authenticity

Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Hardware Wallet

Follow these steps to set up your Ledger hardware wallet for the first time.

First-Time Setup

  1. 1.
    Connect your device: Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger to your computer
  2. 2.
    Power on: Press both buttons simultaneously to turn on your device
  3. 3.
    Choose setup option: Select "Set up as new device" using the device buttons
  4. 4.
    Create PIN: Choose a 4-8 digit PIN code that you'll remember

💡 PIN Code Tips

  • • Use a PIN that's memorable but not obvious
  • • Avoid birth dates or simple sequences
  • • You have 3 attempts before the device resets
  • • Write it down and store it separately from your device

Step 3: Secure Your Recovery Phrase

🔴 Critical Security Step

Your recovery phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrency. If you lose it, your funds are gone forever. If someone else gets it, they can steal all your funds.

Recovery Phrase Generation

  1. Your Ledger will display 24 words one by one
  2. Write each word down on the provided Recovery Sheet in the exact order shown
  3. Double-check each word for accuracy - spelling matters!
  4. Your device will ask you to confirm several words to verify you wrote them correctly

✅ DO These Things

  • Write words on the official Ledger Recovery Sheet
  • Store the sheet in a secure, fireproof location
  • Make multiple copies and store them separately
  • Test your recovery phrase before storing large amounts

❌ NEVER Do These Things

  • Take a photo or screenshot of your recovery phrase
  • Store it on your computer or in the cloud
  • Share it with anyone (not even Ledger support!)
  • Enter it on any website or application

Step 4: Update Firmware & Add Apps

Keep your Ledger secure and up-to-date with the latest firmware and install cryptocurrency apps.

Firmware Update Process

  1. Open Ledger Live and connect your device
  2. Navigate to "Manager" in the left sidebar
  3. Enter your PIN when prompted on the device
  4. If an update is available, click "Update firmware"
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully
  6. Never disconnect during the update process

Installing Crypto Apps

  1. In Ledger Live Manager, browse available apps
  2. Install apps for cryptocurrencies you want to store
  3. Common apps: Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB Chain
  4. Storage space is limited - uninstall unused apps
  5. Apps can be reinstalled anytime without losing funds

✅ Post-Setup Security Checklist

Common Issues & Solutions

Device Not Detected

Try a different USB cable, update Ledger Live, or enable browser support in device settings.

App Installation Failed

Free up storage space by uninstalling unused apps, then try installing again.

Transaction Not Showing

Synchronize your account in Ledger Live, check if you're looking at the correct derivation path.

Your Crypto is Now Secure! 🎉

You've successfully set up your Ledger wallet with industry-leading security. Start small, test transactions, and always verify addresses.