Clients frequently store a Ledger Nano S in a drawer for four years, then attempt recovery on a computer running software the device no longer supports.
The pattern
- Device purchased in 2017 with firmware 1.3.x
- Stored unused while Ledger Live updated through versions 2.x and 3.x
- Client installs current Ledger Live and connects the dormant device
- Firmware update prompt appears; client skips it or interrupts
- Passphrase entry fails or app derivation paths do not match
What we check during recovery prep
- Current firmware version vs. minimum required for installed apps
- Whether installed apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum) need reinstallation after update
- Passphrase entry method (device keyboard vs. computer input)
- Whether the 24-word seed uses the standard BIP39 word list or a custom passphrase (25th word)
Recommendation
Never update firmware on a dormant device without a verified seed phrase backup. If you are unsure whether your backup is complete, schedule a recovery prep consultation before connecting the device to any computer.
We document device-specific steps in our prep reports. We do not perform firmware updates on client devices.