Your Complete Setup Guide for Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, and Nano X
Visit the official Ledger setup page to begin
Go to Ledger.com/startFollow our guide below for a smooth setup experience
General Instructions
Entry Level
Enhanced Storage
Bluetooth & Mobile
Before You Begin: Ensure you have your Ledger device, USB cable, recovery sheet, and a computer or mobile device with internet access. Always use the official Ledger Live application from ledger.com.
Ledger hardware wallets provide the highest level of security for your cryptocurrencies by keeping your private keys offline in a secure device. This quick start guide will walk you through the setup process for your Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X.
Go to ledger.com/start in your web browser. This is the official setup page that will guide you through the entire process.
The website will automatically detect your device model and provide specific instructions.
Download and install Ledger Live, the official application for managing your Ledger device.
Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Connect your Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions to:
Beginners and users with a limited number of cryptocurrencies.
Users with diverse cryptocurrency portfolios who need more app storage.
Advanced users who need mobile access and maximum flexibility.
When you receive your Ledger device, verify that the packaging is intact and hasn't been tampered with.
Check that the holographic seal is unbroken. If anything looks suspicious, contact Ledger support immediately.
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the provided USB cable.
Open Ledger Live and follow the prompts to set up your device. The application will guide you through the entire process.
Choose a PIN code between 4-8 digits. This PIN will be required every time you connect your device.
Make sure it's something you'll remember but hard for others to guess.
Your device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on the provided recovery sheet in the exact order shown.
This is the most important step - never store your recovery phrase digitally.
Your device will ask you to confirm several words from your recovery phrase to ensure you've written it down correctly.
This verification prevents errors that could make your backup unusable.
Use Ledger Live to install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.
Each cryptocurrency requires its own app, but storage is limited on Nano S devices.
Security Warning: Your recovery phrase is the only way to recover your funds if your Ledger is lost, stolen, or damaged. Store it securely and never share it with anyone. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.
Only buy Ledger devices from ledger.com or authorized resellers to avoid tampered devices.
Check that the holographic seal is intact and the device shows "Welcome to Ledger" on first boot.
Choose a PIN that's not easily guessable and never share it with anyone.
Write it down on paper, store in multiple secure locations, and never digitize it.
Always verify receiving addresses on your device screen before sending funds.
Regularly update your device firmware through Ledger Live for the latest security patches.
Security Advantage: Ledger devices use Secure Element chips, the same technology used in passports and credit cards, providing enterprise-level security for your cryptocurrencies.
View all your cryptocurrency holdings in one dashboard with real-time prices and performance charts.
Securely send and receive cryptocurrencies with verification on your Ledger device.
Purchase cryptocurrencies with fiat or swap between different cryptocurrencies directly in the app.
Earn rewards by participating in proof-of-stake networks for supported cryptocurrencies.
Install, update, and remove cryptocurrency apps from your Ledger device as needed.
Manage your device settings, update firmware, and configure security options.
Try a different USB cable or port. Restart Ledger Live and ensure you have the latest version installed.
If prompted, update your device firmware through Ledger Live. This is essential for security and compatibility.
You'll need to reset your device and restore using your recovery phrase. This will erase the device but your funds remain safe.
Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device. Try re-pairing or use USB connection as an alternative.
Charge your device using the provided USB cable. If battery problems persist, contact Ledger support.
Check network congestion and transaction fees. You may need to wait or use transaction acceleration services.
Need More Help? Visit the Ledger Support Center for detailed troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and contact information for customer support.