Complete Setup Guide for Ledger Hardware Wallet

1 Unboxing and Initial Inspection

When you receive your Ledger device, carefully inspect the packaging for any signs of tampering. The box should be sealed with holographic stickers that display the Ledger logo. If these seals appear broken or compromised, do not proceed with setup and contact Ledger support immediately.

Inside the box, you should find:

  • Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano X, or Nano S Plus)
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheet
  • Keychain strap
  • Getting started guide

Security Warning: Never purchase a used Ledger device. Always buy directly from the official Ledger website or authorized resellers to ensure your device hasn't been compromised.

2 Initial Device Setup

Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device will power on and display the Ledger logo. Follow these steps:

  1. Press both buttons simultaneously to begin the setup process
  2. Choose "Configure as new device" if this is your first time using the device
  3. Your device will generate a random set of words - this is your recovery phrase

Critical Security Step: Your recovery phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrency assets. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order shown on your device. Never store it digitally or share it with anyone.

3 Installing Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion application for managing your cryptocurrency assets. To install it:

  1. Visit the official website: ledger.com/start
  2. Download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
  3. Install the application following the on-screen instructions
  4. Launch Ledger Live and select "Get started"

Ledger Live will guide you through the process of initializing your device and installing the necessary applications for different cryptocurrencies.

4 Installing Cryptocurrency Apps

Your Ledger device can support multiple cryptocurrencies simultaneously, but you need to install the specific app for each cryptocurrency you want to manage:

  • In Ledger Live, go to the "Manager" tab
  • Connect and unlock your Ledger device
  • Allow the manager on your device when prompted
  • Browse or search for the cryptocurrency apps you need (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
  • Click "Install" next to each app you want to add

Storage Tip: Ledger devices have limited storage capacity. You can uninstall apps for cryptocurrencies you're not actively using without affecting your holdings. Your private keys remain secure on the device regardless of which apps are installed.

5 Creating Your First Account

After installing the necessary cryptocurrency apps, you can create accounts to receive funds:

  1. In Ledger Live, go to the "Accounts" tab
  2. Click "Add account"
  3. Select the cryptocurrency type
  4. Connect and unlock your Ledger device
  5. Open the corresponding app on your Ledger device
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to verify the address

Once your account is created, you can receive cryptocurrency by sharing your public address. Always verify receiving addresses on your Ledger device screen before sending funds.