Official Ledger Wallet Setup Guide: Your Journey to Self-Custody Starts Here

Welcome to the world of genuine **crypto security**. Follow this definitive guide to properly **initialize your Ledger hardware wallet**, secure your 24-word Recovery Phrase, and begin managing your **Bitcoin**, **Ethereum**, and thousands of other **crypto assets** using the **Ledger Live application**.

Begin Official Setup

Understanding Self-Custody: The Ledger Difference

Your **Ledger hardware wallet** is not where your crypto is *stored*; it's where your **private keys** are *secured*. Unlike exchanges, Ledger gives you full, ultimate control over your **digital assets**. The device keeps your keys **offline** (cold storage), signing transactions securely and only with your explicit approval.

🔑 Private Keys Stay Offline

The **private key** is the cryptographic proof of ownership. Your **Ledger device** generates this key internally, and it **never leaves the device**. This physical isolation is the core of Ledger's **security model** against online threats.

🔒 Your PIN is Your Access

You will set a **PIN code** during setup. This PIN is required every time you want to unlock the device to access your **crypto accounts** or sign a transaction. Use a **strong PIN** (4 to 8 digits).

📝 The Recovery Phrase

The **24-word Recovery Phrase** is the master backup of your **private keys**. If your device is lost or damaged, this phrase is the **only way** to restore access to your entire **crypto portfolio** on a new device.

Step 1: Unbox, Connect, and Download Ledger Live

Preparation is key to a smooth and **secure setup**.

📦 Physical Unboxing Check

Carefully unbox your **Ledger Nano X**, **Nano S Plus**, or **Stax**. Check for signs of tampering, especially on the USB port or the box seals. Your **hardware wallet** must be in factory-fresh condition.

💻 Download Ledger Live Desktop

Go directly to Ledger.com/Start to download the **Ledger Live application**. Ledger Live is the official interface used to manage your accounts, **install apps** (like **Bitcoin app** or **Ethereum app**), and ensure your device has the latest, **verified firmware**.

Get Ledger Live

🔌 Initial Connection & Setup Selection

Connect your **Ledger device** to your computer. Launch **Ledger Live** and select **"Set up a new device"**. Ledger Live will guide you through the initial configuration, which occurs primarily on the **device screen** for maximum **security**.

Step 2: The Critical Recovery Phrase & PIN Setting

This step creates your irreversible, offline backup.

✍️ Write Down Your 24 Words (The Golden Rule)

Your **Ledger device** screen will now display your **24-word Recovery Phrase** one word at a time. **STOP AND FOCUS.**

  1. Use the **Recovery Sheets** provided in the box.
  2. Write the words down clearly, in the correct order (1 to 24).
  3. **NEVER** type these words into a computer, smartphone, or cloud service. This phrase must remain 100% offline.
  4. Confirm the phrase on your device when prompted.

🔥 IMMEDIATE SECURITY WARNING: If anyone gains access to your **24-word Recovery Phrase**, they gain instant, irrevocable control over your entire **crypto portfolio**. This phrase is your only true backup.

🔢 Secure Your Device PIN

Use the buttons on your device to set a personal **PIN code** (4 to 8 digits). This code protects your device from physical theft. If someone steals your **Ledger Nano**, they cannot access your **private keys** without this PIN.

Step 3: Genuine Check & Account Finalization

✅ The Ledger Genuine Check

Once your device is initialized, **Ledger Live** will perform an automatic **Genuine Check**. This process cryptographically verifies that your **Ledger device** is authentic and running official Ledger **firmware**. This is crucial confirmation that your device is safe to use for storing your **Bitcoin** and **crypto assets**.

💰 Install Apps and Add Accounts

Navigate to the **Manager** section in **Ledger Live**. Use this interface to **install the blockchain applications** for the **cryptocurrencies** you want to manage (e.g., **Bitcoin**, **Solana**, **Cardano**). Then, go to **Accounts** and add your specific accounts, completing your **secure crypto setup**.

You have successfully completed the official **Ledger.com/Start** process. Your private keys are now secured offline, giving you unassailable ownership of your **digital assets**.

Go to Ledger Support