How to Set Up the Ledger Flex — Step by Step

Setting up your Ledger Flex? Follow this step-by-step guide to initialise it safely, back up your recovery, and start using it.

Reading Time: 3 min

Published: Jun 2, 2026

FrostUpdated Jun 2, 2026

Introduction

Setting up the Ledger Flex takes only a few minutes, but the recovery backup step is the one that protects your funds forever. The Flex has a secure touchscreen and connects by USB-C (and NFC). Follow these steps in order and never skip the backup.

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TL;DR

Verify the Ledger Flex is genuine and unopened before setup.
Initialise it as a NEW device — never use a pre-filled recovery or PIN.
Write your recovery backup on paper/metal, offline; never photograph or type it online.
Set a strong PIN, then add coins and send a small test deposit.

Step 1: Verify it's genuine and set up as new

Check the Ledger Flex arrived sealed and untampered, then choose to set it up as a new device. Use the touchscreen to navigate the guided setup. A genuine device always generates your secrets itself — see how to verify a hardware wallet is genuine.

Step 2: Initialise with Ledger Live

Connect the device and open Ledger Live, then follow the on-screen setup. The device — not the app or your computer — generates and displays your recovery, keeping it off any internet-connected screen.

Step 3: Back up your recovery — the critical step

The Flex displays a 24-word recovery phrase on its secure touchscreen during setup. Write it down exactly, in order, on paper or a metal backup, and store it offline. This backup is the only way to restore your funds if the device is lost or damaged — anyone who sees it can take your funds.

Step 4: Set a PIN

Choose a PIN that's hard to guess but memorable. The PIN protects the device if it's lost or stolen; it is not a substitute for the recovery backup.

Step 5: Add coins and send a test deposit

Install the apps or add the accounts for the coins you hold, verify a receive address on the device screen, and send a small test deposit before moving larger amounts. Not sure this is the right device? Compare it in our Ledger Flex review.

Never enter your recovery into a phone, computer, website, or photo. A brand-new Ledger Flex must create its own recovery during setup — if it arrives with a pre-set recovery phrase or PIN, do not use it and contact the official seller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about hardware wallets and crypto security

Is the Ledger Flex hard to set up?

No — initial setup takes a few minutes. The important part is backing up your recovery phrase offline and setting a PIN. Take your time on the backup step.

What if my Ledger Flex came with a recovery phrase already?

Stop and do not use it. A genuine device always generates the recovery itself during setup. A pre-filled phrase is a scam — contact the official seller.

Do I need to back up the recovery if I have the device?

Yes. The device can be lost, damaged or reset; only your offline recovery backup can restore the funds. Store it securely and never digitally.

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