The Ledger Nano X is a reliable cold wallet that keeps your crypto safe offline. This detailed guide walks you through setting it up as a new device or restoring an existing one, ensuring you’re fully prepared to manage your assets securely.

What You’ll Need

• A Ledger Nano X (purchase only from ledger.com to avoid counterfeit devices).
• A compatible device: a computer (Windows 10/11, macOS 10.15+ like Catalina, Monterey, Ventura, or Sonoma, or Ubuntu LTS 20.04/22.04 64-bit, no ARM processors) or a smartphone (iOS 15+ or Android 8.1+).
• Ledger Live app (download from ledger.com for desktop or the App Store/Google Play for mobile).
• USB cable (included) for desktop setup or Bluetooth for mobile (note: no desktop Bluetooth, no Chromebooks, tablets, or iOS USB connections).
• Paper and pen to record your recovery phrase.
• Optional: Video instructions available on ledger.com for visual guidance.

Why This Matters

The Ledger Nano X generates new private keys to control your crypto. You’ll create a 24-word recovery phrase as a backup. If you lose this phrase or the device, your funds are unrecoverable, so setup is critical. Alternatively, you can restore an existing wallet using a previous recovery phrase.

Step-by-Step Setup

Ledger Live offers interactive instructions—open the app to start. Here’s the full process:

1. Power On and Set Up as New Device
   Press the button next to the USB port until the Ledger logo appears (about 3 seconds) to turn on the device. Avoid holding too long, or you’ll enter the Bootloader menu—power off and restart if this happens. Use the right button to move forward or left to go back through the on-screen prompts. When “Set up as new device” appears, press both buttons to begin. This creates fresh private keys for a new wallet.
2. Choose and Confirm Your PIN Code
   When “Choose PIN code” shows, press both buttons to start. Use the left or right button to pick each digit, then press both to confirm. Create a PIN of 4-8 digits (8 is safest—think of it like a strong password). Re-enter the PIN to verify. Avoid using a device with a pre-set PIN, as it may indicate tampering. Contact Ledger Support if you’re unsure.
3. Save and Verify Your Recovery Phrase
   The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase, one word at a time (shown only once, so pay attention). Take the Recovery sheet from the box. Press both buttons when “Write down your recovery phrase” appears. Write each word in order, double-checking for accuracy, and press the right button to move to the next word. After word 24, press both buttons to proceed. Next, “Confirm your recovery phrase” will appear—use the buttons to select and confirm each word in sequence. When done, “Your device is ready” shows—press both to reach the Dashboard.
4. Restore from Recovery Phrase (If Needed)
   If you’re recovering an old wallet, select “Restore from recovery phrase” instead of “Set up as new device” in Step 1. Enter your existing 24-word phrase when prompted to access your previous keys.
5. Lock the Device When Idle
   Always lock the Nano X when not in use by pressing both buttons to exit. This prevents others from accessing it if left unattended.
6. Connect to Ledger Live
   Open Ledger Live, click “Connect your device,” and follow the prompts. For desktop, use the USB cable; for mobile, enable Bluetooth and pair the device. Enter your PIN on the Nano X to link it.
7. Install Crypto Apps
   In Ledger Live’s “Manager” tab, browse and install apps for your cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Unlock the Nano X with your PIN for each installation.
8. Add and Manage Accounts
   Go to “Accounts” in Ledger Live, click “Add account,” select your crypto, and confirm on the device. Your balances will sync once added.

Next Steps

You’ve generated new private keys to manage your crypto. Explore Ledger Live to send, receive, or stake your assets. Add more accounts as needed.

Tips for Success

• Privacy First: Set up in a private space, away from cameras or onlookers, and cover webcams.
• Secure Your Recovery Phrase: Store it in a fireproof, waterproof safe or a metal device (like a CryptoTag). Never save it on your phone, computer, or cloud, and don’t share it.
• Test the Setup: Send a small test transaction to confirm everything works before transferring large amounts.
• Keep Updated: Regularly check Ledger Live for app and firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities.
• Buy Legit: Only purchase from ledger.com to ensure authenticity.

Troubleshooting

• Connection Issues: For desktop, check the USB connection; for mobile, ensure Bluetooth is active. Restart the device and app if needed.
• Forgot PIN: Use your recovery phrase to reset—after 3 wrong attempts, the device wipes.
• Lost Recovery Phrase: Without it, your crypto is gone. Get a new device and start over.
• Screen Frozen: Power off by holding the button for 10 seconds, then restart.

Important Security Notes

• Never Use Pre-Set Devices: If your Nano X comes with a pre-written recovery phrase or PIN, don’t use it—it may have been compromised. Ledger never includes these, nor asks for them. Contact Ledger Support immediately.
• Your Responsibility: Ledger doesn’t back up your 24 words. You’re the only one who should know them.

Bottom Line

The Ledger Nano X is a powerful tool to secure your crypto. Take your time with setup, lock it when done, and protect your recovery phrase to keep your funds safe. You’re now ready to manage your digital wealth with confidence!