MetaMask Chrome Extension β Getting Started π¦
Install, create or restore a wallet, secure your seed phrase, and connect to dApps β step-by-step for Chrome users.
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
- Open Chrome and go to the Chrome Web Store.
- Search for MetaMask or visit the official publisher listing (look for the fox logo & verified publisher).
- Click Add to Chrome β Confirm Add extension.
- After install, click the MetaMask icon in the toolbar and choose Get Started.
π Tip: Always verify the extension publisher and reviews. Avoid third-party download sites.
2. Create a New Wallet
- Open the extension and click Create a Wallet.
- Choose whether to help improve MetaMask (optional) and set a strong password for local access.
- MetaMask will show your Secret Recovery Phrase (12 words). Write it down exactly, in order β do NOT store it digitally.
- Confirm the phrase by selecting words in the correct order to finish setup.
β οΈ Never share your recovery phrase. Anyone with it can take your funds.
3. Restore Wallet (if you have a seed)
- Choose Import wallet on first run or Settings β Security & Privacy β Reveal Seed on another device.
- Enter your 12-word (or 24-word) Secret Recovery Phrase exactly, choose a new password, and import.
- After restore, review your accounts and transaction history.
Note: Importing on a compromised device is unsafe β use a clean computer/browser.
4. Using MetaMask β 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.
β 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 β 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
- π‘ Keep your Secret Recovery Phrase offline (paper or metal backup).
- π Use a strong extension password and lock MetaMask when not in use.
- π Regularly update Chrome & extensions to the latest versions.
- π« Never reveal your seed to support agents or strangers β legitimate support won't ask for it.
- π Use hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) for large holdings β MetaMask supports hardware wallet integration.
7. FAQ & Troubleshooting
Q: MetaMask not showing balances?
A: Ensure youβre 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 β 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 β 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.