Ledger Activation Setup Guide | Complete Initialization for a New Device

Activating a new Ledger device is the first step toward using a hardware wallet. Completing initialization correctly is critical to safe usage thereafter.

Preparation Before Activation

Confirm that the device was purchased brand-new from a proper channel; check that the packaging seals are intact and the recovery-phrase card is blank; prepare a pen and paper to write down the recovery phrase; allow 20–30 minutes of uninterrupted time.

Detailed Activation Steps

[Image placeholder: Ledger activation flow diagram, showing each stage from power-on to completion]

Step 1: Power On

Connect the Ledger to a computer with a USB cable, or use a power adapter; press the power button on the side of the device; once the Ledger logo appears, you will enter the welcome screen.

Step 2: Choose Setup Mode

The screen shows two options: "Set up as new device" and "Restore from recovery phrase."

New users should choose "Set up as new device" — the device will generate a fresh recovery phrase.

Step 3: Set the PIN

Use the device buttons to set a 4–8-digit numeric PIN; enter it twice to confirm; the PIN is used to unlock the device every time you use it.

Recommendation: use a 6–8-digit PIN and avoid simple combinations like 123456.

Step 4: Write Down the Recovery Phrase

The device displays 24 English words one at a time; use pen and paper to copy each word down accurately in order; this is the single most critical step — take it seriously.

Warning: do not photograph, do not store on a phone, do not tell anyone.

Step 5: Confirm the Recovery Phrase

The device will ask you to confirm specific words (e.g. the 5th, the 12th, etc.); choose the correct word from the options as prompted; this step verifies that you recorded the phrase correctly.

Step 6: Finish Setup

"Your device is ready" indicates initialization is complete; you can now connect the Ledger Wallet software and start using it.

Post-Setup Reminders

Store the recovery-phrase card in a safe physical location; download and install the Ledger Wallet software; on first use, perform a small-amount test transfer.

For the software download, see the Ledger Wallet Download Guide.