How to set up a new Ledger Nano X? (Step-by-Step for Beginners)

Unboxing and Initial Hardware Check

1. Carefully open the sealed Ledger Nano X packaging to verify all included items: the device itself, a USB-C cable, a recovery sheet, and a quick start guide.

2. Inspect the device for physical damage or tampering signs—check the holographic seal on the USB-C port cover and ensure the recovery sheet has no pre-written phrases.

3. Confirm the device powers on by pressing and holding the left and right buttons simultaneously for three seconds—the screen should illuminate with the Ledger logo.

4. Observe the firmware version displayed during boot; if it is below 2.0.0, a firmware update will be required before proceeding further.

Installing Ledger Live Desktop Application

1. Navigate to ledger.com/start using a trusted desktop browser—never use third-party links or downloaded installers from unofficial sources.

2. Download the Ledger Live installer matching your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) directly from the official domain.

3. Run the installer with administrator privileges and follow prompts without skipping any security-related steps.

4. Launch Ledger Live after installation and allow it to check for updates automatically—do not proceed if the application reports an outdated version.

Device Initialization and Recovery Phrase Setup

1. Connect the Ledger Nano X via the provided USB-C cable and unlock it using both side buttons.

2. In Ledger Live, click “Set up a new device” and select “Nano X” when prompted.

3. Choose “Create a new wallet” and confirm on-device by pressing both buttons—this initiates the 24-word recovery phrase generation.

4. Write down each word in exact order on the physical recovery sheet—no digital storage, screenshots, or cloud backups are permitted at this stage.

5. Verify the phrase by selecting random words on the device screen as instructed—mismatches will require restarting the entire setup process.

Creating and Securing Your First Account

1. After successful phrase verification, Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt you to name your device—use a descriptive but non-identifying label.

2. Select “Add account” and choose a supported cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin or Ethereum—each account corresponds to a specific derivation path.

3. Confirm the account creation on the device screen using both buttons—this action derives public keys without exposing private keys.

4. Record the displayed public address manually or scan its QR code with a trusted external tool—never rely solely on Ledger Live’s copy-to-clipboard function for critical addresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I reuse my old Ledger Nano S recovery phrase on the Nano X?Yes. The Nano X supports BIP-39 standard phrases. During setup, choose “Restore from backup” and enter your 24-word phrase exactly as written.

Q: What happens if I lose my recovery sheet?The recovery sheet is the only way to restore access to funds. Without it—and without having recorded the phrase elsewhere securely—you permanently lose control of all assets.

Q: Is Bluetooth functionality safe for transaction signing?Ledger Nano X uses encrypted, short-range Bluetooth LE with mandatory on-device confirmation. No private keys ever leave the secure element, and pairing requires manual approval each time.

Q: Why does Ledger Live ask for permissions like Accessibility or Full Disk Access on macOS?These permissions enable communication between Ledger Live and the device driver. They do not grant access to personal files or keystrokes—only low-level USB/Bluetooth interface control.