Overview
Hardware wallets store your private keys offline in a secure element — vastly reducing the risk of remote theft. This guide covers everything most users need to complete a secure setup: inspecting the package, installing Ledger Live, creating a PIN, writing down the 24-word recovery phrase, installing coin apps, and best practices to keep your crypto safe long term.
Follow each step carefully. The most common vulnerabilities are human-caused: downloading software from the wrong site, saving recovery words digitally, or sharing secrets with scammers.
Before you begin — quick safety checklist
- Inspect packaging for tampering. If something looks wrong, pause and verify before using.
- Type the setup URL manually — do not click random links in emails or social posts.
- Plan an offline place to store the recovery phrase (fireproof safe or deposit box is ideal).
Unboxing — what you'll find
Typical contents include the hardware device (Nano S Plus or Nano X style), a USB cable, recovery phrase cards, and a quick-start leaflet. Different models may have slightly different accessories.
Device
Compact device with buttons or a touchscreen used to confirm transactions securely.
Recovery cards
Blank cards to write your 24 recovery words. Keep them offline.
Cable & Guide
USB cable and documentation to help you through the first setup.
Download Ledger Live (official)
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application used to manage accounts, install blockchain apps on the device, and update firmware. Download only from the vendor's verified page — never from a random third-party host.
After installing, choose "Set up a new device" to begin.
Start setup
Step-by-step setup
1. Power on and choose a PIN
Connect the device and follow prompts to pick a numeric PIN. Make it memorable to you but hard for others to guess.
2. Generate the recovery phrase
The device generates a secure 24-word recovery phrase. Write every word in order on the supplied card. This phrase is the only backup to restore your accounts.
3. Verify the phrase
The device will ask you to confirm random words from the phrase. This verifies you recorded them correctly.
4. Install apps & add accounts
Use Ledger Live to install coin apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and then add accounts to view balances and send/receive funds.
Sending & receiving — why the device matters
Every outgoing transaction must be approved directly on the device screen. This physical confirmation prevents malware on the host computer from silently signing transactions. When receiving, always verify the address on the device display before sharing it to ensure it was not swapped by malicious software.
Security best practices
- Never store your 24-word recovery phrase digitally or take photos of it.
- Use metal backups for long-term durability where possible.
- Keep Ledger Live and firmware updated via official channels.
- Be skeptical of unsolicited messages asking for help — support never asks for your recovery phrase.
Troubleshooting & support
If the device doesn't connect, try a different cable or USB port and restart Ledger Live. Firmware updates and app installs sometimes require retries. For persistent issues, contact official support through the vendor's verified website. Never share recovery words with support.
Example (DO NOT USE — example only): sample recovery: abandon ability able about above absent absorb abstract absurd abuse access accident
Conclusion
Starting at ladger.com/start and following these steps will get your hardware wallet initialized safely. The combination of an offline secure element, a strong PIN, and a properly stored 24-word recovery phrase makes hardware wallets one of the most reliable ways to protect crypto assets. Take time during setup, keep backups secure, and treat your recovery phrase as the most sensitive piece of information you own.