How to set up a new Ledger Nano X? (Initial Configuration)

Device Power-On and Initial Menu Navigation

1. Press and hold both side buttons simultaneously until the Ledger Nano X screen lights up.

2. Navigate right repeatedly using the right button until “Set up as new device” appears on the display.

3. Confirm selection by pressing both buttons at the same time.

4. The device will now enter the PIN setup phase without requiring any external software connection.

PIN Code Creation Protocol

1. Use the left button to decrease digits and the right button to increase them when constructing your PIN.

2. Input a numeric sequence between four and eight digits in length.

3. Re-enter the identical PIN a second time to validate consistency.

4. Once confirmed, the device locks automatically — this PIN must be entered every time the hardware is powered on.

Secure Recovery Phrase Generation and Recording

1. The Nano X generates a deterministic 24-word recovery phrase rooted in BIP-39 standards.

2. Each word appears sequentially on the device screen; write them down in exact order on the provided recovery sheet or an offline metal backup.

3. Verify each word against the official BIP-39 English word list to eliminate spelling errors.

4. Never store the phrase digitally, never share it with anyone, and never transmit it over email, messaging apps, or cloud services.

Ledger Live Application Pairing

1. Install Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or verified app stores — avoid third-party download sources.

2. Launch the application and select “Get Started”, then choose “Initialize a new Ledger device”.

3. Enable Bluetooth on your mobile device or connect the Nano X via USB-C cable to your computer.

4. Wait for Ledger Live to detect the device and establish a secure channel — no private keys ever leave the hardware.

Application Installation and Asset Onboarding

1. Open the “Manager” section inside Ledger Live after successful pairing.

2. Scroll through the list of supported cryptocurrencies, tokens, and NFT viewers — over 5,500 assets are available.

3. Tap or click “Install” next to desired applications such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, or Polygon wallets.

4. Each installed app occupies space within the device’s 100-app capacity limit and activates its own address derivation path.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I skip writing down the 24-word phrase during setup? No. Skipping this step permanently severs access to all assets stored on the device. Ledger does not retain or recover phrases.

Q: What happens if I enter the wrong PIN three times? The device triggers a factory reset, erasing all installed apps and cached data. Your assets remain recoverable only if the 24-word phrase is available.

Q: Is Bluetooth mandatory for Nano X operation? No. Bluetooth is optional. All signing operations occur offline regardless of connection method. USB-C provides full functionality without wireless exposure.

Q: Can I install apps directly from a smartphone without Ledger Live? No. Ledger Live serves as the sole authorized gateway for app installation, verification, and firmware updates. Third-party tools cannot interface with BOLOS securely.