Ledger Wallet Setup — Friendly Emoji Guide
Step-by-step with emojis to make setup easy and fun 🎉 — for beginners. Not the official Ledger site; for official instructions visit the manufacturer.
🧭 Before you begin
- 📦 Only use the Ledger device from a trusted source (buy from the official store or authorized reseller).
- 💻 You'll need a computer or phone and the USB cable included with your device.
- ⛔ Never share your recovery phrase (seed) with anyone — Ledger staff will never ask for it.
1️⃣ Download Ledger Live
Download the companion app Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device to manage apps and accounts. Open the app to begin the guided setup.
📲 Ledger Live helps install apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and shows balances — but the device itself secures your private keys.
2️⃣ Unbox & verify device
Open the Ledger box and ensure tamper-evidence packaging is intact. Power on the device (connect via USB) and follow on-screen messages.
- 🔎 Check for physical tampering.
- ✅ Confirm the device boots to the expected welcome screen.
3️⃣ Initialize: Set a PIN
Choose Set up as new device on the device screen. Create a PIN (4–8 digits on many Ledger models). Memorize it — do not write it on the recovery sheet.
🔒 PIN protects local access. If you forget it you will need your recovery phrase to restore your wallet.
4️⃣ Write down your recovery phrase ✍️ (VERY IMPORTANT)
The device will display 24 words (one by one). Write each word in the exact order on the recovery sheet included with your device.
- 📜 Keep the recovery sheet in a safe, offline place (no photos, no digital copy).
- 🔁 You'll be asked to confirm several words so the device can verify you copied them correctly.
5️⃣ Connect to Ledger Live & install apps
Open Ledger Live → choose your device model → follow the app's instructions: connect device, unlock with PIN, open Manager, and install apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
- 📥 Apps are small on-device programs that let you use specific cryptocurrencies.
- 🔗 Always install apps through Ledger Live to avoid unsafe sources.
6️⃣ Add accounts & receive funds
In Ledger Live: click Add account, choose the currency, and follow the prompts to create an address. Use that address to receive funds.
📤 When sending funds from an exchange or another wallet, always send a small test amount first to confirm everything works.
🛡️ Security checklist — keep your crypto safe
- 🔑 Never type your recovery phrase into a website or app.
- 📞 Ledger support will never ask for your 24-word phrase.
- 🧊 Consider storing your recovery phrase in a fireproof safe or a bank deposit box.
- 🔁 Regularly update Ledger Live and device firmware via official channels.
🧰 Troubleshooting & tips
- ⚡ If the device won't turn on: try a different cable or USB port.
- 🔄 If Ledger Live doesn't detect the device: make sure the device is unlocked and that you selected the correct device model.
- ❗ If you suspect tampering or compromise, transfer funds to a new wallet once you have a new device and recovery phrase.