A friendly, step-by-step HTML guide to get your Ledger Nano up and running, secure your recovery, install Ledger Live, and start managing your crypto the safe way.
Quick links (official Ledger pages)
Ten official Ledger links — styled and ready. Open each in a new tab for reference.
Buy an authentic Ledger device from the official store. Avoid second-hand devices.
Use a clean, malware-free computer or phone for the initial setup (preferably a trusted personal device).
Have a pen and the recovery sheet supplied with the device. Do not store your recovery phrase digitally.
Keep your device box and proof of purchase until setup is complete and you’re confident in security.
Step 1 — Unbox & inspect
What to check
Make sure the tamper-evident seal is intact. Ledger packages come sealed; if packaging looks opened, contact Ledger support before proceeding. The box should include your Ledger device, a USB cable, a recovery sheet and instructions.
Step 2 — Powering up and initializing
Connect your Ledger to your computer or mobile using the provided cable.
Power on the device — follow the on-screen prompts to choose Set up as new device (unless you are restoring from a recovery phrase).
Create a PIN — choose a PIN of 4–8 numbers. Memorize it: the device will lock after multiple wrong attempts.
Write your recovery phrase — Ledger will show 24 words (some older models show 12). Carefully transcribe each word onto the recovery sheet. This is the single most critical step: anyone with your recovery phrase can access your crypto.
Security tip (h4)
Never type your recovery phrase into a computer, phone, or cloud service. Keep the paper sheet in a secure offline place like a safe. Consider a fireproof/waterproof backup or a metal seed backup product.
Step 3 — Install Ledger Live
Ledger Live is Ledger’s official companion app for desktop and mobile. Download only from ledger.com/ledger-live. Install the app and follow these steps:
Open Ledger Live and choose Get Started.
Select your device model and follow the on-screen instructions to pair it.
Ledger Live will verify your device and ask you to confirm the device’s firmware status.
Firmware updates
If Ledger Live prompts for a firmware update, allow it — but only while connected to the official Ledger Live app. Firmware updates may require confirmation on the device screen and sometimes re-entering your PIN.
Step 4 — Add accounts & install apps
Ledger manages currencies through small apps installed on the device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Use Ledger Live to install apps and add accounts.
Open Manager in Ledger Live and install the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
Once installed, go to Accounts > Add account and add the corresponding accounts for each currency.
Step 5 — Receiving funds
In Ledger Live click Receive, select the account and follow the prompts.
Always verify the receiving address on the device screen — do not trust the address shown only on your computer screen.
Step 6 — Sending funds
Open Send in Ledger Live, enter the recipient address and amount.
Confirm transaction details in Ledger Live, then verify and approve the transaction on your device screen.
Security best practices
1. Keep your recovery phrase offline
Store copies in separate secure locations. If you suspect the phrase was exposed, move funds to a new wallet immediately using a new device and new recovery phrase.
2. Beware of phishing
Always type ledger.com directly or use a trusted bookmark. Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase over email, chat, or phone.
3. Use a passphrase (optional advanced)
Ledger devices support adding an optional passphrase (BIP39 passphrase) to your 24-word seed to create hidden wallets. This adds significant security but requires careful management — if you lose the passphrase, those funds are irrecoverable.
Troubleshooting
Device not recognized
Try a different cable or USB port, restart Ledger Live, ensure your device is unlocked, and check the compatibility page: ledger.com/compatibility.
Forgot PIN
After too many incorrect PIN attempts the device will wipe. Use your recovery phrase to restore your wallet on the same or a new Ledger device.
Migration & advanced workflows
If you previously used another hardware wallet or software wallet, you can migrate funds by sending them to addresses generated by your Ledger device. For enterprise or large-value vaults, consider multi-sig setups and professional custody solutions.
FAQ
Q: Can Ledger recover my funds if I lose my device?
A: No — Ledger cannot access your funds. Your recovery phrase (24 words) is the only way to recover funds. Keep it safe and private.
Q: Is Ledger Live mandatory?
A: Ledger Live is the official wallet manager and recommended, but some users use third-party wallets (e.g., MetaMask, Electrum) in combination with their Ledger for added features. Always ensure third-party compatibility at ledger.com/compatibility.
Q: Can I store NFTs?
A: Yes — Ledger supports NFTs through compatible apps and integrations like Ethereum-based wallets. NFT metadata often lives off-chain; Ledger secures the private keys only.
Q: Is my 24-word phrase the same as a private key?
A: The recovery phrase generates your private keys deterministically. Protect the phrase as you would private keys: never share or enter it online.