Ledger Hardware Wallet Setup – Visual Step-by-Step Guide

kamm

— 2 min read

This guide shows exactly how to set up your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X from unboxing to sending your first crypto securely.

Step 1: Unbox Your Ledger Device

What you’ll see:

  • Ledger device (Nano S Plus or Nano X)
  • USB cable
  • Recovery sheet for 24-word recovery phrase
  • Instruction leaflet

Tip: Always verify that the packaging is sealed and authentic before using.

Step 2: Connect Your Ledger to a Computer or Mobile Device

  • Nano S Plus: Connect via USB cable
  • Nano X: Connect via USB or Bluetooth to mobile
  • Power on the device; a welcome screen appears

Visual cue: Device screen shows “Welcome” and arrows to navigate

Step 3: Go to Ledger.com/Start

  1. Open a browser and visit Ledger.com/start
  2. Select your device model
  3. Download Ledger Live for desktop or mobile

Tip: Ledger Live is the only official software to manage your wallet.

Step 4: Initialize Your Ledger Wallet

Option A: Set up as a new device

  • Create a new wallet and PIN
  • Device generates a 24-word recovery phrase

Option B: Restore wallet

  • Enter an existing 24-word recovery phrase to restore previous accounts

Visual cue: Device displays one word at a time for your recovery phrase

Step 5: Set a PIN Code

  • Use the device buttons to select numbers
  • Confirm the PIN on the device
  • Choose a PIN that is secure but memorable

Tip: The PIN protects your device if it’s lost or stolen.

Step 6: Secure Your Recovery Phrase

  • Write all 24 words on the recovery sheet
  • Store it offline and in a secure place (e.g., safe)
  • Never take a photo or save digitally

Visual cue: Recovery sheet with numbered boxes for 24 words

The recovery phrase is your ultimate backup; losing it could mean losing access to your funds.

Step 7: Install and Open Ledger Live

  • Run the installer for Ledger Live
  • Open the app and select Get Started
  • Connect your Ledger device
  • Follow prompts to initialize the app

Visual cue: Ledger Live dashboard with “Add Account” button

Step 8: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

  • Go to Accounts → Add account
  • Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage
  • Confirm on your Ledger device
  • Repeat for additional cryptocurrencies

Visual cue: Ledger Live account list showing BTC, ETH, and others

Step 9: Send and Receive Crypto

To Receive:

  1. Click Receive
  2. Select account
  3. Verify address on your Ledger device before sharing

To Send:

  1. Click Send
  2. Enter recipient address and amount
  3. Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device

Visual cue: Ledger Live transaction screen with confirmation on device

Step 10: Keep Your Device and Accounts Secure

  • Update firmware and Ledger Live regularly
  • Keep PIN and recovery phrase private
  • Only connect to trusted devices
  • Never share recovery phrase with anyone

Tip: Security is your responsibility; Ledger keeps keys offline, but user practices matter most.

Conclusion

With your Ledger device set up and Ledger Live installed, you can safely send, receive, and manage crypto while keeping your private keys offline. By following this visual step-by-step guide, beginners can confidently navigate their first Ledger setup.

Read more