The Ledger Nano S is a hardware wallet designed to securely store private keys offline and allow users to manage multiple cryptocurrencies safely. It is part of the Ledger family of devices which include Nano S Plus, Nano X etc. The Nano S remains popular among those who prioritize cost‑effective security without needing Bluetooth or large displays.
As with all true Hardware Wallets, Nano S isolates critical operations. For example, your recovery phrase is generated on‑device and never leaves it. This ethos is seen in other devices like those from Trezor, where setup begins via Trezor.io/start and management often uses Trezor Suite with secure login flows such as Trezor Login or Trezor Bridge where browser interactions are needed.
Nano S supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies, tokens, and stablecoins (depending on Ledger’s supported list). Popular coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, XRP etc. are all supported. Because of limited memory, only a few apps can be installed at a time (typically 3‑5), but apps can be uninstalled and reinstalled without affecting balances. This is a common trade‑off seen in entry‑level hardware wallets.
The device uses a monochrome OLED display (128×32 px) and two physical buttons for navigation. Every transaction must be confirmed on the device itself. This ensures that even if the computer is compromised, malicious things cannot be approved without your explicit consent.
Constructed from stainless steel and plastic, the Nano S weighs about 16.2g and has dimensions of roughly 104 × 58 × 5 mm. It connects via micro‑USB; there is no Bluetooth or wireless support on this model. It works with Ledger Live on desktop platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux) and via USB‑OTG for compatible Android devices.
Ledger Live is the official companion app for managing your Nano S. Through it, you can install apps, view balances, send & receive crypto. Ledger Live also handles firmware updates, genuine device verification, and asset management. Other platforms like Trezor Suite serve similar roles for Trezor devices. Trezor Bridge or Trezor Login are sometimes required to enable browser‑based tools for Trezor; such extra bridging isn’t necessary for most Ledger Live flows.
On first setup, the device gives a 24‑word recovery seed phrase. This is the master backup that lets you restore your wallet on another Ledger or compatible hardware. Store it offline, in safe places. Trezor’s workflows (such as via Trezor Suite or Trezor Io Start) emphasize the same level of caution around recovery seeds.
Buy your Nano S from authorized dealers or directly from Ledger. Beware of phishing or tampered devices. Always check seals or authenticity features when you receive your hardware wallet.
Go to Ledger.com/Start to download Ledger Live. This is the official software where you will manage your Nano S: install apps, update firmware, verify genuineness, and control assets.
Connect Nano S via USB, turn it on, select ‘Set up as new device’. Choose a PIN (4‑8 digits). Then write down the 24‑word recovery phrase. Confirm it on device. Do not store the phrase digitally or share it with anyone.
Use Ledger Live to install the apps corresponding to coins you want to manage. Because memory is limited, you may keep fewer apps installed at once. You can uninstall and reinstall apps as needed. Then you can receive and send crypto through Ledger Live, verifying actions on the device itself.
Security is where Nano S shines given its simplicity. It uses a Secure Element chip, BOLOS OS, PIN protection, recovery seed phrase, transaction confirmation on‑device. Many of these are also seen in Trezor Hardware Wallets. However, Trezor Suite + Trezor Login flows often rely on more browser or bridge software like Trezor Bridge for some integrations.
While Nano S lacks Bluetooth and advanced features such as large touchscreen or wireless tech, this makes its attack surface smaller. For users prioritizing highest safety, many prefer devices without wireless connectivity. This is a distinction some users draw between Ledger Nano S and certain Trezor models.