How to Set Up MetaMask Wallet
MetaMask is the most popular Web3 wallet. It lets you store crypto, interact with DeFi apps, and collect NFTs. Here's how to set it up safely.
Only install MetaMask from metamask.io or official app stores. Fake MetaMask apps steal your crypto!
Install MetaMask
MetaMask is available as a browser extension and mobile app.
For Browser (Recommended for beginners):
- Go to metamask.io (type it directly, don't click links)
- Click "Download"
- Select your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge)
- Click "Add to [Browser]"
- Confirm the installation when prompted
For Mobile:
- Open App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android)
- Search "MetaMask"
- Verify it's by "MetaMask" (check reviews and downloads)
- Install the app
The only official website is metamask.io. Any other URL (metamask.com, meta-mask.io, etc.) is a scam that will steal your funds.
Create Your Wallet
- Click the MetaMask icon in your browser toolbar
- Click "Get Started"
- Select "Create a Wallet"
- Agree to the terms of use
- Create a strong password (at least 12 characters)
- Click "Create"
This password only unlocks MetaMask on this device. Use something unique. A password manager can generate and store strong passwords.
Secure Your Seed Phrase
This is the most critical step. Your seed phrase is 12 words that can recover your entire wallet.
- Anyone with these words can steal all your funds
- NEVER share it with anyone, ever
- NEVER type it on any website
- NEVER store it digitally (no photos, no cloud, no notes app)
- MetaMask support will NEVER ask for it
How to Store Your Seed Phrase:
- Click "Reveal Secret Words"
- Write it down on paper (or metal for fire protection)
- Write the words in order (1-12)
- Double-check each word carefully
- Store in a safe, secure location
- Consider making 2 copies in different locations
Complete the verification quiz - MetaMask will ask you to confirm some words in order.
For significant holdings, consider a metal seed phrase backup (like Cryptosteel or Billfodl). Paper can burn or get water damaged.
Add Additional Networks
MetaMask defaults to Ethereum mainnet, but you can add other networks for lower fees.
To Add a Network:
- Click the network dropdown (top, says "Ethereum Mainnet")
- Click "Add Network"
- Search for the network or add manually
Popular Networks to Add:
| Network | Use For | Typical Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Polygon | Cheap DeFi, NFTs | $0.01-0.10 |
| Arbitrum | Ethereum L2 DeFi | $0.10-1.00 |
| Optimism | Ethereum L2 DeFi | $0.10-1.00 |
| BNB Chain | Binance ecosystem | $0.05-0.30 |
| Avalanche | Fast transactions | $0.05-0.50 |
Visit chainlist.org to easily add networks to MetaMask with one click. It's the safest way to add networks with correct settings.
Security Settings
Enable these settings to protect your wallet:
Go to Settings → Security & Privacy:
- Auto-lock timer - Set to 5 minutes or less
- Show test networks - Turn off (reduces confusion)
- Use phishing detection - Keep enabled
Additional Security Tips:
- Never approve unlimited token spending
- Review every transaction before confirming
- Create a "burner" wallet for new dApps
- Regularly revoke unused token approvals (revoke.cash)
- Consider a hardware wallet for large amounts
Click your account name to copy your address. This is like your bank account number - safe to share for receiving funds. It looks like: 0x1234...abcd