Welcome & What to Expect
This presentation-style guide walks you through the essential steps to set up your Ledger device safely. We’ll cover unboxing, initializing, creating a recovery phrase, installing apps, connecting to Ledger Live, and key security practices for long-term asset safety. Follow official guidance at the Ledger setup hub; quick links are included below.
Why Onboarding Matters
Proper onboarding prevents common mistakes that lead to lost funds: copying your recovery phrase to insecure places, using unverified software, or sharing private information. A hardware wallet like Ledger keeps your private keys offline — but it’s only as secure as the setup steps you follow.
Quick checklist (Before you begin)
- Buy only from authorized sellers and verify sealed packaging.
- Have a safe, private space to complete setup (avoid cameras and public Wi‑Fi).
- Bring a pen and the recovery seed backup sheet that comes with your device.
- Charge your device and keep the USB cable nearby.
Terms you'll see
Seed / Recovery phrase: The master list of words that restores your wallet. PIN: Local passcode that unlocks the device. Ledger Live: Official desktop/mobile app to manage assets and install apps.
Step 1 — Unbox & Inspect
Open the package in a well-lit space. Confirm tamper-evident seals are intact. Look for the included recovery sheets, USB cable, and quick start card. If packaging looks altered, stop and contact the seller.
Step 2 — Power On & Initialize
Power on the Ledger device and choose Create new device unless you are restoring from a previous seed. Set a strong, memorable PIN (at least 6 digits) and avoid obvious sequences like 123456 or repeated digits.
Step 3 — Write Down the Recovery Phrase
Your device will display a 24‑word recovery phrase (some older models may use 12). Write each word legibly on the provided paper backup. Do not store the phrase digitally (no photos, text files, cloud storage). Keep copies in physically separate, secure locations (e.g., a home safe and a bank safe deposit box).
Step 4 — Verify the Recovery Phrase
After writing it down, the device will require you to confirm several words. This ensures you've copied them correctly. If you make a mistake, reset and repeat the process until it’s correct.
Step 5 — Install Ledger Live
Download and install Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile device. Always use the official link: the setup hub we link to below — and avoid third-party downloads. Ledger Live lets you add accounts, install coin-specific apps on your device, and interact with exchanges and dApps safely.
Step 6 — Add Accounts & Install Apps
Open Ledger Live, connect your device, and follow the prompts to install app packages (for example Bitcoin, Ethereum). Each cryptocurrency may require its own app inside the Ledger device. Only install the apps you need to reduce attack surface.
Security Best Practices
- Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone — Ledger staff will never ask for it.
- Use a PIN and consider an additional passphrase (advanced users) for extra security.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated — verify updates in Ledger Live only.
- Beware of phishing sites and phishing emails; always navigate to official links manually or use saved bookmarks.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked with PIN, and update OS USB drivers when required. If you lose your device, use your recovery phrase on a new Ledger or compatible hardware wallet to recover funds.
Emergency Recovery Flow
Keep your recovery phrase accessible only in physical form. If a restoration is required, follow the official steps to restore from recovery on a new device. If you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed, move funds to a new wallet with a freshly generated seed immediately.
Designing Presentation Slides
For slide-based presentations, split the guide into: (1) Intro & Why, (2) Unboxing & Init, (3) Recovery Phrase, (4) Ledger Live & Apps, (5) Security Practices & Q&A. Each slide should contain one headline (H2/H3) and concise bullet points. Keep visuals minimal and emphasize actions the user must take with the device in front of them.
Printable Notes (Copy this section)
Quick printable checklist:
- Verify sealed packaging
- Create device & set PIN
- Write 24 words legibly on supplied sheet
- Verify words on device
- Install Ledger Live from official link
- Add only needed apps
- Store recovery phrase in two secure physical locations
- Never store seed digitally
Accessibility & Localization
Use large font sizes and clear contrasts for in-person onboarding. Translate the checklist into the primary language of attendees and read each recovery word aloud only in private—avoid public readouts of seed phrases.