Ledger Wallet ® — Set Up Your Ledger Wallet ®Securely™

Follow this guide to configure your Ledger hardware wallet correctly and securely. It covers initial device checks, Ledger Live setup, firmware updates, recovery seed handling, PIN and passphrase guidance, and daily operational security tips.

Before you start

• Buy only from an official Ledger store or authorized reseller to avoid tampered devices.
• Have a clean computer with updated OS and browser; close unnecessary applications during setup.
• Prepare a physical notebook or metal backup for writing your recovery seed — never store it digitally.

Important: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery seed. Treat the seed as the ultimate secret.

Unboxing & initial device check

1. Inspect the package seal and device for signs of tampering.
2. Power on the device and verify the boot logo and firmware version match official Ledger documentation.
3. If the device shows unexpected prompts or a pre-filled recovery, contact Ledger support and do not proceed.

Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website (ledger.com). Verify the download link and checksums when available. Install the desktop app and follow the on-screen instructions to open the app.

1. Open Ledger Live and choose "Initialize as new device" if creating a wallet, or "Restore device" if you have an existing seed.
2. Follow prompts to install apps for the coins you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).

Create PIN & record your recovery seed

When prompted, set a strong PIN. Do not choose trivial sequences. Ledger devices will wipe after multiple incorrect attempts — that’s a safety feature.

1. Choose a PIN you can reliably remember but is not easily guessable.
2. Write down the 24-word recovery seed on the provided recovery sheet or on a durable metal backup. Store it offline in a secure location.
3. Test the recovery by performing a simulated restore on a spare device if possible.

Firmware updates

Check for firmware updates in Ledger Live and apply them only when instructed by the official app. Firmware updates can include important security fixes; avoid installing firmware from unofficial sources.

Using Ledger Live safely

• Connect your Ledger device and open the corresponding coin app on the device before sending or signing transactions.
• Always verify the destination address and amount on the device screen — do not trust the host computer display alone.
• Use a reputable password manager for any online account credentials; never store your recovery seed in a password manager.

Advanced protections

• Consider using a passphrase (25th word) for an extra layer of security — but be aware: losing the passphrase and seed means loss of funds.
• Use separate wallets for daily spending (hot wallets) and long-term storage (cold wallets).
• Consider multisig setups for shared custody or high-value storage.

Troubleshooting

If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, ensure the cable is data-capable (not charge-only), try a different USB port, and check OS permissions. For persistent issues, consult the official Ledger support pages.

Disclaimer