How to use Ledger Nano X with Bitcoin? (Cold storage)

Setting Up the Ledger Nano X for Bitcoin Storage

1. Unbox the device and confirm the holographic seal is intact before first use.

2. Connect the Ledger Nano X to a computer using the included USB-C cable or pair it via Bluetooth with a compatible mobile device.

3. Install the Ledger Live application from the official ledger.com website—never from third-party sources.

4. Follow the on-screen prompts in Ledger Live to initialize the device, selecting “Set up as new device.”

5. Write down the 24-word recovery phrase on the provided recovery sheet—never digitally store or photograph it.

6. Verify the recovery phrase by re-entering random words in the order prompted by the device screen.

Installing and Configuring the Bitcoin App

1. Open Ledger Live and ensure the device is unlocked and connected.

2. Navigate to the “Manager” section and locate the Bitcoin app in the list of available applications.

3. Click “Install” next to the Bitcoin app—the device will display a confirmation prompt; approve it using the side buttons.

4. Wait until installation completes—do not disconnect the device during this process.

5. After installation, return to the “Accounts” tab and click “Add account.”

6. Select “Bitcoin” and choose the appropriate account type: Legacy (P2PKH), SegWit (P2SH-SegWit), or Native SegWit (Bech32).

Receiving Bitcoin Securely

1. In Ledger Live, select the Bitcoin account you created and click “Receive.”

2. A QR code and address will appear—verify the full address on the Ledger Nano X screen by navigating using the device’s buttons.

3. Confirm the address matches exactly on both Ledger Live and the physical device before sharing it externally.

4. Share only the verified address with senders—never share your recovery phrase, private keys, or device PIN.

5. Once funds arrive, the balance updates automatically in Ledger Live after blockchain confirmation.

6. Monitor transaction status directly on the device by opening the Bitcoin app and reviewing recent transactions.

Sending Bitcoin from Cold Storage

1. In Ledger Live, go to the Bitcoin account and click “Send.”

2. Enter the recipient’s address and amount—double-check all details before proceeding.

3. Ledger Live generates a transaction preview and sends it to the device for approval.

4. The Nano X displays the recipient address, amount, and fees—review each field carefully on the device screen.

5. Press both side buttons simultaneously to approve the transaction if everything matches.

6. The device signs the transaction offline and returns the signed data to Ledger Live for broadcast to the Bitcoin network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the same Ledger Nano X for multiple cryptocurrencies alongside Bitcoin?Yes. The device supports over 5,500 assets including Ethereum, Litecoin, and Solana. Each app operates independently and shares the same 24-word seed—no additional backup is required.

Q: What happens if I lose my Ledger Nano X but still have the 24-word recovery phrase?You can restore full access to your Bitcoin and other assets on any compatible Ledger device or third-party wallet that supports BIP-39 standard derivation.

Q: Is Bluetooth mode safe for Bitcoin transactions?Bluetooth communication is encrypted and only used to relay unsigned transaction data. Private keys never leave the secure element. However, wired connection is preferred for maximum isolation during sensitive operations.

Q: Why does Ledger Live show different Bitcoin address formats?Legacy addresses start with “1”, P2SH-SegWit with “3”, and Native SegWit (Bech32) with “bc1”. Bech32 offers lower fees and better scalability—Ledger Live defaults to it unless legacy compatibility is explicitly needed.