MetaMask® Extension: Your Gateway to Web3 Wallet

MetaMask® is the world's leading self-custody crypto wallet, empowering you to manage assets, access dApps, and explore blockchain ecosystems securely. Here’s how to leverage its browser extension for seamless Web3 interaction.

Installing the MetaMask® Extension

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Visit the official Chrome Web Store: MetaMask Extension for Chrome
  2. Click "Add to Chrome" → Confirm installation
  3. Pin the extension to your toolbar (click 🧩 icon > pin)

Alternative Browsers:

✅ Always verify: Install only from official stores or MetaMask.io.

First-Time Setup

Creating Your Wallet:

  1. Open the extension → Click "Get Started"
  2. Choose "Create a New Wallet"
  3. Set a strong password (this encrypts your device only)
  4. Back up your Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP):
  • Write down 12 words offline
  • Never store digitally/share online
  • Confirm phrase order
🔐 Critical: Lose SRP = Lose funds. MetaMask® cannot recover it.

Key Features

FunctionHow to AccessAsset ManagementView tokens across networks (ETH, BSC, etc.)dApp ConnectivityClick "Connect" on sites like OpenSea/UniswapToken SwapsBuilt-in swap (via MetaMask® Portfolio)Network ManagementAdd custom RPCs (e.g., Polygon, Arbitrum)

Secure Login Workflow

Accessing Your Wallet:

  1. Click the MetaMask® fox icon in your toolbar
  2. Enter your password (device-specific)
  3. Use SRP only when:
  • Migrating wallets
  • Reinstalling the extension
🛡️ No "MetaMask Login" Page: Beware of phishing sites mimicking login screens.

🔍 MetaMask® FAQ: Top User Concerns

Q1: Is the Chrome extension free?

Yes! Download only from official sources.

Q2: Can I use the same wallet on mobile?

Absolutely. Sync via SRP in the MetaMask® Mobile App.

Q3: Why can’t I see my tokens?

• Add token contract address manually
• Switch to correct network (e.g., ERC-20 on Ethereum)

Q4: How to recover a hacked wallet?

Immediately create a new wallet with new SRP. Transfer funds using your old SRP.

Q5: Are swaps fee-free?

No. MetaMask® charges 0.875% + network gas fees.

Q6: Why "Transaction Failed"?

• Insufficient gas fees → Adjust slippage
• Network congestion → Retry later

Security Best Practices

  • Phishing Defense:
    » Bookmark MetaMask.io
    » Never enter SRP on any website
  • Hardware Integration: Connect Ledger®/Trezor® for enhanced security
  • Regular Audits: Revoke dApp permissions via Settings > Security

Troubleshooting Guide

IssueSolutionExtension not loadingClear cache → Reinstall"Invalid password"Reset via SRP recoveryMissing networksAdd custom RPC using chainlist.orgPending transactionsSpeed up/cancel via Activity tab

Your Next Steps:

  1. Install Extension: Chrome | Firefox
  2. Create Wallet: Back up SRP offline
  3. Explore dApps: Visit MetaMask Portfolio
"Over 30 million monthly users trust MetaMask® to manage $10B+ in assets across 15,000+ dApps." – 2024 Report