How to Set Up Ledger Nano X: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

How to Set Up Ledger Nano X: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

What’s in the Box

When you open a genuine Ledger Nano X, you should find:

Important: If you bought your Ledger second-hand, from a marketplace, or if the box appears tampered with — do not use it. Ledger devices should only be purchased from ledger.com or authorised retailers. A compromised device could expose your funds.

The recovery sheets come blank — Ledger never pre-fills them. If yours arrived with words already written on them, it’s a scam. Return it immediately.

Step 1: Charge the Device

Connect the Nano X to your computer or a USB power adapter using the included cable. A battery icon will appear on screen. You don’t need to wait for a full charge — it can be set up while charging.

The Nano X has a built-in battery for Bluetooth use. The Nano S Plus (a cheaper alternative) does not have a battery and must be plugged in during use.

Step 2: Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official companion app — you need it to manage the device, install apps, and view your balances.

On macOS: macOS may warn that the app is from an unidentified developer. Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → click “Open Anyway”.

On Windows: If Windows Defender flags it, click “More info” → “Run anyway”. This is normal for less-common apps.

Step 3: Power On the Device

Press and hold the single button on the top-right of the Nano X until the Ledger logo appears. Use the two buttons on the sides to navigate:

The screen is small but readable. You’ll navigate menus using these three button combinations throughout setup.

Step 4: Select “Set Up as New Device”

On first boot, you’ll see two options:

Select Set up as new device by pressing both buttons.

Step 5: Choose a PIN

The PIN protects physical access to your device. If someone steals your Nano X, they can’t access it without the PIN.

Choosing a PIN:

If you enter the wrong PIN 3 times, the device resets and wipes itself. This is a security feature. Your funds can still be recovered using your seed phrase.

Step 6: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

This is the most critical step in the entire process. Read this section carefully before proceeding.

Your recovery phrase (also called a seed phrase or mnemonic) is 24 words generated randomly by the device. These 24 words are the master key to all funds stored on the device. Anyone with these words can access your crypto from any compatible wallet, anywhere in the world.

The Nano X will display the 24 words one at a time on screen.

How to record it correctly:

After writing all 24 words, the device will ask you to verify a few of them by pressing both buttons to confirm. This ensures you wrote them down correctly.

Storing your recovery phrase:

If you lose your seed phrase and your device is damaged or lost, your funds are gone permanently. No one — not Ledger, not exchanges, no one — can recover them. This is by design.

Step 7: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

Ledger will ask you to confirm several of the 24 words in random order. Navigate to the correct word and press both buttons to confirm each one.

This verification step proves you wrote the phrase down correctly. The device won’t proceed unless you confirm the right words.

Once complete, your device is set up and you’ll see the Ledger dashboard.

Step 8: Connect to Ledger Live

Back in the Ledger Live app on your computer:

The Genuine Check connects to Ledger’s servers to confirm the device’s cryptographic certificate. If it passes (it will on a genuine device), you’re good to proceed.

Step 9: Install the Firmware Update (if prompted)

Ledger Live will notify you if a firmware update is available. It’s best to install it now before doing anything else.

Step 10: Install Coin Apps

The Nano X doesn’t come pre-loaded with all coin apps — you install only the ones you need. Each app uses a small amount of the device’s storage, and you can install/uninstall freely without affecting your funds.

To install the Bitcoin app:

The app will install in seconds. Repeat for Ethereum, Solana, or any other coin you want to use.

How many apps can fit? The Nano X can hold around 100 apps simultaneously. You’ll never run out of space in practice.

Step 11: Add Your First Account

Your account is now visible in Ledger Live with a receiving address.

Step 12: Receive Crypto

To receive funds to your Ledger:

Step 13: Send a Test Transaction

Before moving significant funds, send a small test amount:

The physical confirmation on the device means no software hack on your computer can steal funds without you physically approving each transaction.

Security Best Practices

Never share your seed phrase

Ledger will never ask for it. Customer support will never ask for it. Any message, email, or pop-up asking for your 24 words is a scam.

Use a passphrase for extra security (optional)

A passphrase (25th word) adds a second layer of protection — even if someone finds your seed phrase, they’d also need the passphrase. Enable it in Settings → Security on the device. It’s an advanced feature; understand it before using it.

Keep firmware updated

Updates patch security vulnerabilities. Check Ledger Live periodically.

Be careful with phishing sites

Bookmark ledger.com — many fake sites exist. Always check the URL before entering anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Nano X without a computer?

Yes. With Bluetooth, the Nano X works with the Ledger Live mobile app on iOS and Android. You don’t need a computer for day-to-day use — only for firmware updates and initial setup.

What happens if I lose my Ledger Nano X?

Your funds are not on the device — they’re on the blockchain. Your seed phrase is the key. Buy a new Ledger, select “Restore from recovery phrase,” enter your 24 words, and your accounts reappear. This works with any BIP39-compatible wallet.

Can I have multiple accounts on one device?

Yes. One seed phrase generates unlimited accounts for each coin. You can add as many as you need in Ledger Live.

What’s the difference between Nano X and Nano S Plus?

The Nano X has Bluetooth (works wirelessly with mobile), a larger screen, and more storage. The Nano S Plus is cheaper, USB-only, but otherwise similar in security. For most people, the Nano X is worth the extra cost.

Can I recover my wallet with a different brand’s device (e.g., Trezor)?

Yes — as long as both devices use BIP39 (which Ledger, Trezor, and most hardware wallets do), you can restore a Ledger seed phrase on a Trezor and vice versa. The seed phrase is universal.

Is Ledger Live required for everyday use?

No. You can connect your Ledger to MetaMask, Rabby, or other wallets directly. Ledger Live is useful for portfolio overview, staking, and buying crypto, but it’s not mandatory.

Related guides:

Tagged , , ,