Ledger Device Setup Guide

Secure your cryptocurrency assets with our step-by-step initialization guide

Welcome to your new Ledger hardware wallet! This guide will walk you through the complete setup process to ensure your digital assets are protected with enterprise-grade security. Follow each step carefully to properly initialize your device.

Before You Begin

1 Verify Your Package

Before opening, check that the security seal on your Ledger box is intact. Ensure all components are present: your Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheet, and keychain strap.

Security Alert: Only purchase Ledger devices from official sources. Counterfeit devices may be pre-configured to steal your funds. If the security seal is broken, do not use the device and contact Ledger Support immediately.

Initial Setup Process

2 Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website (ledger.com). This desktop application will be your interface for managing your cryptocurrency assets.

  • Never download Ledger Live from third-party sources
  • Verify the application's authenticity after installation
  • Create a strong password for your Ledger Live account
3 Connect Your Device

Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable. Follow the on-screen instructions to initialize your device.

4 Configure Your PIN

Your Ledger device will prompt you to set up a PIN code. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access.

  • Choose a PIN between 4-8 digits
  • Memorize your PIN - it cannot be recovered if forgotten
  • Never share your PIN with anyone
Pro Tip: Use a PIN that's easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. Avoid obvious sequences like 1234 or repeated digits.

Recovery Phrase - Your Master Key

5 Generate Recovery Phrase

Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. This is the most critical security element of your wallet.

Critical Security Information: Your recovery phrase is the master key to all your cryptocurrencies. Anyone with access to these words can access your funds. Never digitize your recovery phrase - no photos, cloud storage, or typing into any device.
6 Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

Carefully write down all 24 words in the exact order shown on your device's screen. Use the provided recovery sheet or a dedicated notebook.

  • Use a permanent pen with waterproof ink
  • Double-check the spelling of each word
  • Verify the sequence is correct
7 Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

Your device will ask you to confirm several words from your recovery phrase. This ensures you've correctly recorded the information.

Storage Advice: Store your recovery phrase in multiple secure locations, such as a safe deposit box and a fireproof home safe. Consider using a metal backup solution for protection against physical damage.

Installing Applications

8 Install Crypto Asset Apps

Use Ledger Live to install applications for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage. Each crypto asset requires its own application on your Ledger device.

  • Bitcoin app for Bitcoin transactions
  • Ethereum app for ETH and ERC-20 tokens
  • Other apps for supported altcoins

Managing Your Assets

9 Create Accounts

In Ledger Live, create accounts for each cryptocurrency you plan to use. The application will generate receiving addresses for each account.

10 Transfer Funds

Send a small test transaction first to verify everything is working correctly. Then transfer the remainder of your assets to your new Ledger-secured addresses.

Transaction Security: Always verify receiving and sending addresses on your Ledger device's screen, not just on your computer. This protects against address-swapping malware.

Setup Complete!

Congratulations! Your Ledger device is now properly configured and ready to securely store your cryptocurrency assets. Remember to:

  • Keep your recovery phrase safe and private
  • Regularly update your device firmware
  • Verify addresses on your device screen for every transaction
  • Never share your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone