How to manage multiple accounts on a single Ledger Nano X?

Understanding the Ledger Nano X Multi-Account Capability

The Ledger Nano X is designed to support multiple cryptocurrency accounts under a single hardware device. This functionality stems from its integration with the Ledger Live application and the use of hierarchical deterministic (HD) wallets. Each account is derived from a master seed, ensuring security while allowing separation between different portfolios or purposes.

Users can manage numerous public addresses for various blockchains without compromising private key safety. The device supports over 5,000 assets across more than 100 integrated blockchain networks, enabling diversified holdings within one secure interface. By leveraging derivation paths, each account remains isolated yet accessible through the same recovery phrase.

1. A single 24-word recovery phrase generates all account keys using BIP32, BIP39, and BIP44 standards.
2. Different cryptocurrencies are accessed by installing corresponding apps via Ledger Live.
3. Within each installed app, users can add multiple accounts tied to unique derivation rules.
4. Account labels help distinguish personal, business, or investment-specific wallets.
5. Bluetooth connectivity allows seamless switching between accounts on mobile devices.

Setting Up Multiple Accounts Through Ledger Live

Ledger Live acts as the central hub for managing accounts connected to the Nano X. After pairing the device with the desktop or mobile version of Ledger Live, users gain access to an intuitive dashboard where new accounts can be created for supported currencies.

Each added account appears as a separate entry under the respective cryptocurrency, maintaining clarity in balance tracking and transaction history. For instance, two Bitcoin accounts will show distinct receive addresses and independent transaction logs, even though they originate from the same seed.

1. Open Ledger Live and connect the Nano X via USB or Bluetooth.
2. Navigate to the 'Accounts' section and select 'Add Account.'
3. Choose the desired cryptocurrency and decide whether to create a new account or restore an existing one.
4. Confirm the creation process on the Nano X screen to validate ownership.
5. Assign a custom name to identify the purpose of the account, such as 'Savings BTC' or 'ETH Trading.'

Security Implications of Managing Multiple Accounts

While managing multiple accounts enhances organizational efficiency, it does not increase the number of private keys stored on the device. All accounts rely on the original seed phrase, meaning that protection of this phrase remains paramount. Physical access to the device alone is insufficient for fund extraction due to PIN requirement.

No additional trust assumptions are introduced when adding accounts—the same cryptographic guarantees apply uniformly. However, users must remain cautious about phishing attempts targeting specific high-value accounts linked to their wallet.

1. Always verify receive addresses on the Nano X screen before initiating transfers.
2. Avoid reusing addresses across accounts to maintain privacy boundaries.
3. Regularly update firmware to patch vulnerabilities affecting account isolation.
4. Use strong, unique PIN codes and never store them digitally.
5. Keep the recovery phrase offline and protected against environmental risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have multiple Bitcoin accounts with different derivation paths?

Yes, Ledger Live allows users to create Bitcoin accounts using various derivation schemes such as BIP44, BIP49, and BIP84. These correspond to legacy, segregated witness (SegWit), and native SegWit (Bech32) address formats. Each path produces unique addresses while still being recoverable with the same seed phrase.

Is there a limit to how many accounts I can add on the Nano X?

The limitation is not imposed by the hardware directly but by available memory for installing cryptocurrency apps. The Nano X has storage for approximately 100 apps. Each app can support multiple accounts, so the total number of accounts exceeds the app limit significantly. Users may need to uninstall less-used apps to make room for others.

What happens if I lose my Ledger Nano X?

If the device is lost, users can recover all accounts using the 24-word recovery phrase on another Ledger device or compatible wallet. As long as the phrase is intact and was generated securely, no funds are permanently lost. It is critical never to enter the recovery phrase on any online platform or untrusted software.