Welcome to the definitive guide for **Secure Initialization** of your new **Hardware Wallet**. Follow these steps precisely to ensure maximum **Cryptocurrency Security** for your **Digital Assets**.
Before starting the **Ledger Setup**, physically inspect your packaging. The security seals must be intact. Your **Hardware Wallet** (Ledger Nano S, Nano X, or Plus) should always arrive without a **PIN Code Protection** set or a pre-written **Recovery Phrase**. If either is present, stop immediately and contact support on the **Official Site**. This initial verification is paramount to establishing strong **Cryptocurrency Security**.
⚠️ Mandatory Step: Download **Ledger Live**.
You must use the **Ledger Live Installation** application to perform the **Secure Initialization**. This application handles the necessary **firmware updates** and provides the official, verified environment for your first connection. Download **Ledger Live** only from the **Official Site** at **Ledger.com/Start**.
Connect your **Hardware Wallet** to your computer via USB. The device screen will light up, typically displaying a welcome message. Launch the **Ledger Live** application. Select the "Set up a new Ledger device" option. The application will guide you through firmware confirmation, ensuring your device is ready for the core **Ledger Setup** process. This ensures your **Digital Assets** start with the most current protection.
The device will prompt you to choose a **PIN Code Protection** of 4 to 8 digits. **Crucially, you must enter this PIN directly on the device using its physical buttons.** You will be required to confirm the PIN twice. Choose a strong, memorable, but unique PIN. This code protects your **Digital Assets** locally and is required every time you connect your **Hardware Wallet** to the **Ledger Live** application.
A strong **PIN Code Protection** is your daily defense against unauthorized physical access to your device, forming a critical layer of your comprehensive **Cryptocurrency Security** strategy.
This is the most critical component of the entire **Ledger Setup**. Your **24-word Recovery Phrase** is the master backup key to your **Digital Assets**. The phrase is generated randomly and displayed *only* on your **Hardware Wallet** screen. You must use the provided **Recovery Sheet** to write down all 24 words in the exact sequential order.
After confirming your **Recovery Phrase** and setting the **PIN Code Protection**, the device is initialized. **Ledger Live Desktop** will then perform an 'Authenticity Check' to confirm your **Hardware Wallet** is genuine, running official firmware, and ready for use. This vital step concludes the **Secure Initialization**.
Once verified, use the Manager section within **Ledger Live** to install the necessary cryptocurrency applications (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) onto your device. These applications are required to manage specific **Digital Assets** and complete your total **Ledger Setup**.
By following this **Official Site** guide, you have successfully completed the **Ledger Setup** process. Your **Hardware Wallet** is initialized with a robust **PIN Code Protection** and backed by a meticulously recorded **24-word Recovery Phrase**. You are now prepared to use **Ledger Live** for all your **Cryptocurrency Security** and management needs.
Launch Ledger Live Application