A friendly, practical walkthrough and presentation to help new users set up a Ledger hardware wallet and start managing crypto securely.
Hardware wallets like Ledger provide a secure way to store private keys offline. Unlike software wallets that keep keys on a connected device, Ledger devices keep private keys inside a secure element, isolated from internet-facing systems. This makes them one of the strongest available defenses against remote hacking, phishing and malware that target seed phrases and private keys.
This guide is aimed at new Ledger users — people who are crypto-curious, investors who want safe custody, or anyone who needs a reusable and portable way to hold digital assets. It covers the essentials: unboxing, initial setup, securely saving your recovery phrase, installing Ledger Live, and basic best practices.
By following the steps you will: set up your Ledger device, generate and record a recovery phrase, install Ledger Live, add an account, receive a small test transfer, and understand next steps for routine security and backup.
Always buy Ledger devices from official sources (e.g. Ledger’s website or authorized resellers). Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone or enter it into a website or app. Ledger staff will never ask for your recovery phrase.
When your Ledger arrives, verify packaging integrity and the tamper-evident seal. If anything looks suspicious, contact support. Ledger devices come with a sealed box, a small booklet, a recovery sheet, and the device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X).
Turn on the device and follow on-screen prompts. Choose Create a new device unless you already have a recovery phrase from a previous cold wallet and are restoring. The device will ask you to set a PIN — choose a PIN you can remember but is not trivial.
Pick a 4–8 digit PIN. Never record the PIN in the same place as your recovery phrase. Enter the PIN on the device, not the computer — the device’s screen confirms each digit you press.
The device will display a sequence of 24 words, one at a time. Use the provided recovery card or a metal backup if you prefer. Write words precisely in order. Confirm the sequence when prompted. This 24-word phrase is the only backup to recover your assets if the device is lost or destroyed.
Ledger Live is the companion app that connects to your Ledger device to manage assets, install apps on the device, and view balances. Download Ledger Live from ledger.com/start or the official Ledger downloads page.
Install Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device, follow the onboarding flow, and connect your device using the USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X). Ledger Live will guide you to install the specific coin apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) to the device.
Within Ledger Live, choose Add Account, select the cryptocurrency, and follow prompts. The app will derive a public address from your device — you may verify on-device that the address shown in Ledger Live matches the device screen.
Before sending large sums, receive a small test amount to the address shown in Ledger Live and check it arrives. This ensures addresses match and you understand the flow.
Regular tasks include updating firmware, adding more accounts, sending, and receiving funds. Keep firmware up to date, but only update from Ledger Live official prompts. Use multi-factor processes where possible and be vigilant about phishing links.
Keep copies of your recovery phrase locked in separate physical locations (e.g., home safe, safe deposit box). Use tamper-proof metal backups for long-term durability. Consider splitting seed phrase parts with a trusted co-signer only when absolutely necessary.
Ledger works with many wallets and dApps. When connecting to third-party wallets, always confirm on-device addresses and only grant minimal permissions necessary. Avoid signing unfamiliar transactions.
If your device is lost, use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger (or compatible device) to restore funds. If you fear your recovery phrase was compromised, move funds to a new wallet generated from a new phrase immediately.
Ledger offers extensive documentation, tutorials, and direct support. Bookmark official pages and community resources; be skeptical of unsolicited messages or support chats that ask for your recovery phrase.
Below are ten official Ledger resources you can include in your materials. Each link is styled with a distinct color to make it visually clear in presentations. Replace or verify links periodically on Ledger’s site.