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COMPLETE SETUP TUTORIAL

Complete Ledger Setup Guide

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of setting up your Ledger hardware wallet, from unboxing to making your first transaction.

Table of Contents

  1. 1. Prerequisites and What You'll Need
  2. 2. Unboxing Your Ledger Device
  3. 3. Downloading Ledger Live
  4. 4. Initializing Your Device
  5. 5. Setting Your PIN Code
  6. 6. Backing Up Your Recovery Phrase
  7. 7. Verifying Your Recovery Phrase
  8. 8. Updating Firmware
  9. 9. Installing Cryptocurrency Apps
  10. 10. Making Your First Transaction

1Prerequisites and What You'll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following items ready:

  • Your sealed Ledger device package
  • A computer or smartphone with internet connection
  • USB cable (included in the box)
  • Pen and paper for writing recovery phrase
  • 20-30 minutes of uninterrupted time
  • A quiet, private space (no cameras or recording devices nearby)

Important: Choose a location where no one can see your screen or recovery phrase. Disable any security cameras if present.

2Unboxing Your Ledger Device

Your Ledger device should arrive in a sealed box. Here's what to check:

Security Checklist

  • ✓The box is sealed with Ledger's tamper-proof stickers
  • ✓No signs of tampering or resealing
  • ✓All items are present: device, USB cable, recovery sheets, instructions
  • ✓No recovery phrase card is pre-filled (it should be completely blank)
  • ✓The device appears new and unused

Red Flag Alert: If your device came with a recovery phrase already written down, a PIN code card, or any instructions telling you to use a specific recovery phrase - DO NOT USE IT. This is a scam. Contact Ledger support immediately.

3Downloading Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion software for managing your Ledger device. Here's how to download it safely:

Step-by-Step Download Process

  1. 1

    Open your web browser and visit ledger.com/start

    Always type this URL manually - never click links from emails or messages

  2. 2

    Verify the URL shows a secure connection (padlock icon) and correct domain

  3. 3

    Select your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) or mobile platform (iOS/Android)

  4. 4

    Download and install the application following your system's standard installation process

  5. 5

    Launch Ledger Live once installation is complete

System Requirements

  • • Windows 10 or later
  • • macOS 10.14 or later
  • • Ubuntu 20.04 or later (Linux)
  • • iOS 13+ or Android 8+

File Size

  • • Windows: ~120 MB
  • • macOS: ~140 MB
  • • Linux: ~110 MB
  • • Mobile: ~50-80 MB

4Initializing Your Device

Now it's time to power on your Ledger device and begin the initialization process.

  1. Connect the device: Use the provided USB cable to connect your Ledger to your computer
  2. Power on: The device will automatically power on when connected
  3. Welcome screen: You'll see "Welcome to Ledger Nano" or similar message
  4. Navigate: Use the left and right buttons to scroll through options
  5. Select "Set up as new device": Press both buttons simultaneously to confirm

Button Guide: Left button = navigate backwards, Right button = navigate forwards, Both buttons = confirm/select

Ready to Continue?

This guide continues with detailed instructions for PIN creation, recovery phrase backup, and more.

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