1. Unboxing and first impressions
What to check in the box
When you receive your Ledger device, verify the packaging integrity. Confirm the box is sealed, the tamper-evident sticker (if present) is intact, and the device model matches your order. Genuine wallets include documentation, a USB cable, and recovery cards for jotting down your seed phrase.
Why inspection matters
Physical tampering is rare but possible. A compromised device can risk private keys. If anything looks altered or suspicious, contact Ledger support and do not proceed with setup.
2. Powering on and initial setup
Power on safely
- Connect the device to your computer or mobile using the supplied cable.
- Power it on and follow on-device prompts. Confirm the manufacturer logo and welcome screen appear.
- Choose to Set up as new device unless you are restoring an existing wallet using a known recovery phrase.
Setting a secure PIN (H4)
The device will ask you to create a PIN. Choose a unique numeric PIN that you do not store digitally. The PIN protects access to the device even if it is physically stolen.
PIN tips (H5)
- Use at least 4–8 digits where possible.
- Avoid obvious sequences (e.g., 1234) or repeated numbers.
- Do not enter the PIN on public or untrusted devices—only use your Ledger's input.
3. Recovery phrase (seed) — the most important step
Write it down, offline, once
After setting the PIN, your Ledger will generate a recovery phrase (BIP39/24 words depending on model/choice). This is the master key to your funds. Write the words on the provided recovery card immediately and store it in a secure, offline location.
Do not store the seed digitally
Never photograph, email, copy, or type your recovery phrase into devices or cloud storage. Attackers can harvest backups, and ransomware can extort you.
Backup best practices
- Make at least one physical backup and store in a separate secure location (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe).
- Consider metal seed storage for fire/water durability.
- Only share the seed with people you completely trust — ideally, no one.
4. Installing Ledger Live and firmware
Download Ledger Live from ledger.com
Use a trusted computer and visit the official Ledger website to download Ledger Live. Install the app, open it, and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your device. Ledger Live is the official companion for account management, app installation, and updates.
Firmware updates
Your device may prompt for a firmware update. Firmware updates often include security patches and feature improvements. Only accept updates when connected to Ledger Live; never install firmware from unknown sources.
When updates are required
Ledger Live will indicate required updates. Confirm the update on the device screen before proceeding. If you lose power mid-update, consult Ledger support immediately — do not guess.
5. Adding accounts and receiving crypto
Install cryptocurrency apps on the device
Use Ledger Live to add the applications for the blockchains you plan to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Each app enables account management for that chain while keeping private keys secure inside the device.
Create accounts in Ledger Live
- Open Ledger Live → Accounts → Add account.
- Select the currency, follow on-screen prompts, and confirm addresses on the device display.
Verifying receiving addresses
Always confirm the receiving address ON THE DEVICE screen. Do not rely solely on the computer screen; malware can alter copied addresses.
6. Daily use, security reminders, and troubleshooting
Common daily precautions
- Keep your recovery phrase offline.
- Use Ledger Live updates only from ledger.com.
- Enable a secure environment on your computer (antivirus/anti-malware) and avoid public Wi-Fi when transacting.
Troubleshooting quick checklist
- If the device won’t connect: try a different cable, USB port, or computer.
- If Ledger Live is not recognizing the device: ensure you have the latest Ledger Live version and OS drivers where applicable.
- Contact Ledger support if you suspect tampering or irrecoverable errors.
Fraud and phishing awareness
Legitimate support will never ask for your recovery phrase. Be suspicious of unsolicited messages claiming urgency. Verify all contact details on the official Ledger website before sharing any information.
7. Long-term storage and transfer planning
Cold storage best practices
If you hold large amounts, consider splitting holdings across multiple devices or multisignature setups. For long-term HODLing, keep the device powered off and only connect to a trusted machine when transacting.
Preparing for inheritance or succession
Document the existence and location of your recovery phrase securely with trusted executors. Consider legal planning so heirs can access assets without exposing the seed unnecessarily.
Audit your setup periodically
Periodically review firmware, backups, and access policies. A yearly check-in reduces risk of lost access due to forgotten PINs or degraded backups.
8. Converting this guide to an Office format
Below are 10 Microsoft Office links you can use to open, paste, or share this content into Word, PowerPoint, Excel, or other Office apps. Each link points to the Microsoft Office landing page where you can create a new document (or open the app) and paste this HTML or plain text. Use these links to quickly produce printable handouts, slides, or training materials for your organization.