MetaMask Chrome Extension — Getting Started 🦊

Install, create or restore a wallet, secure your seed phrase, and connect to dApps — step-by-step for Chrome users.

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Quick Intro

MetaMask is a browser extension wallet that lets you manage Ethereum and EVM-compatible assets, sign transactions, and interact with decentralized applications (dApps). This guide walks you through the Chrome extension flow in a safe way.

1. Download & Install

  1. Open Chrome and go to the Chrome Web Store.
  2. Search for MetaMask or visit the official publisher listing (look for the fox logo & verified publisher).
  3. Click Add to Chrome → Confirm Add extension.
  4. After install, click the MetaMask icon in the toolbar and choose Get Started.

🔎 Tip: Always verify the extension publisher and reviews. Avoid third-party download sites.

2. Create a New Wallet

  1. Open the extension and click Create a Wallet.
  2. Choose whether to help improve MetaMask (optional) and set a strong password for local access.
  3. MetaMask will show your Secret Recovery Phrase (12 words). Write it down exactly, in order — do NOT store it digitally.
  4. Confirm the phrase by selecting words in the correct order to finish setup.

⚠️ Never share your recovery phrase. Anyone with it can take your funds.

3. Restore Wallet (if you have a seed)

  1. Choose Import wallet on first run or Settings → Security & Privacy → Reveal Seed on another device.
  2. Enter your 12-word (or 24-word) Secret Recovery Phrase exactly, choose a new password, and import.
  3. After restore, review your accounts and transaction history.

Note: Importing on a compromised device is unsafe — use a clean computer/browser.

4. Using MetaMask — Send, Receive & Connect

  • Receive: Click your account name to copy your address, share it to receive tokens.
  • Send: Click Send, paste recipient address, choose amount and gas, confirm on the extension.
  • Connect to dApps: On a dApp (e.g., Uniswap), click Connect Wallet and approve the connection in MetaMask.

✅ Always verify the address and the dApp domain before approving transactions or connections.

5. Networks & Tokens

MetaMask defaults to Ethereum Mainnet. You can switch networks or add custom RPCs (e.g., Polygon, BSC, Avalanche):

  • Click the network dropdown at top of the extension → Add Network.
  • Enter RPC URL, chain ID, symbol, and block explorer (found from the network provider).
  • Add tokens by clicking Import tokens and entering the token contract address.

Pro tip: When adding tokens, confirm the contract address from the official token website or a reputable explorer.

6. Security Best Practices

  • 🛡 Keep your Secret Recovery Phrase offline (paper or metal backup).
  • 🔒 Use a strong extension password and lock MetaMask when not in use.
  • 🔁 Regularly update Chrome & extensions to the latest versions.
  • 🚫 Never reveal your seed to support agents or strangers — legitimate support won't ask for it.
  • 🔍 Use hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) for large holdings — MetaMask supports hardware wallet integration.

7. FAQ & Troubleshooting

Q: MetaMask not showing balances?

A: Ensure you’re on the correct network (Mainnet vs testnet). Add custom tokens if necessary. Check your transaction history on a block explorer using your address.

Q: Lost my seed — what now?

A: If you lost the Secret Recovery Phrase and still have access to the unlocked wallet, create a new wallet and transfer funds to it immediately. If you are locked out, funds are unrecoverable without the seed.

Q: Extension was removed or Chrome reset?

A: Reinstall MetaMask and choose Import wallet → enter your Secret Recovery Phrase to restore accounts.

Q: Is MetaMask safe?

A: MetaMask is widely used, but security depends on the user. Use best practices (seed safety, hardware wallet) to lower risk.