How to Set Up Ledger Nano

Intermediate 20 minutes

The Ledger Nano is the world's most popular hardware wallet. This guide walks you through setting it up securely from start to finish.

Buy Only From Official Sources

Only purchase Ledger devices from ledger.com or authorized resellers. Never buy used or from third parties - they could be compromised.

What You'll Need

Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X
USB cable (included)
Computer or smartphone
Pen and paper (for recovery phrase)
15-20 minutes of uninterrupted time

Step 1: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official app for managing your Ledger device:

Go to ledger.com/ledger-live
Download for your operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux)
Verify the download (check the hash if possible)
Install and open the application

Step 2: Initialize Your Device

Connect your Ledger and follow these steps:

Connect Ledger to computer via USB
Press both buttons to navigate
Select "Set up as new device"
Choose a 4-8 digit PIN code

PIN Security

Don't use obvious PINs like 1234 or your birthday. After 3 wrong attempts, the device wipes itself for security.

Step 3: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical step:

Your Ledger will display 24 words one by one
Write each word on the provided recovery sheet
Double-check spelling and order
Verify the phrase when prompted

Critical Security Rules

NEVER: photograph your recovery phrase, store it digitally, share it with anyone, or enter it on any website. Anyone with these 24 words can steal all your crypto.

Step 4: Connect to Ledger Live

In Ledger Live, click "Get started"
Select your device model
Follow the pairing instructions
Complete the security checklist

Step 5: Install Apps

Install apps for each cryptocurrency you want to store:

Go to "My Ledger" in Ledger Live
Search for the coin (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
Click "Install" for each app
Note: Nano S Plus has limited storage (~6-8 apps)

Step 6: Create Accounts

Go to "Accounts" → "Add account"
Select the cryptocurrency
Follow on-screen instructions
Confirm on your Ledger device

Receiving Crypto

Click "Receive" in Ledger Live
Select the account
Verify the address on your Ledger screen
Only send funds after verifying on device

Always Verify on Device

Malware can change addresses on your computer screen. Always confirm the receiving address matches what's shown on your Ledger.

Ledger Models Compared

Feature	Nano S Plus	Nano X
Price	~$79	~$149
Bluetooth	No	Yes
Mobile Support	USB only	Bluetooth + USB
Storage	~100 apps	~100 apps
Best For	Desktop users	Mobile users