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MetaMask® Wallet: Your Secure Portal to Web3

Control your cryptocurrencies and explore decentralized applications with the MetaMask® Wallet, the world's leading self-custodial Web3 wallet. Available as a browser extension and mobile app, MetaMask® empowers you to manage digital assets, interact with dApps, and own your financial future. Start your journey securely at the official source: MetaMask.io.

What is the MetaMask® Wallet?

The MetaMask® Wallet is a free, open-source software wallet enabling true self-custody of your crypto assets and digital identity. Unlike exchange wallets, MetaMask® gives you exclusive control of your private keys. It serves as both:

  1. A Secure Vault: Store Ethereum (ETH), ERC-20 tokens, and NFTs safely.
  2. A Web3 Gateway: Seamlessly interact with thousands of decentralized applications (dApps), DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, DAOs, and blockchain games.

The Power of the MetaMask® Extension

The MetaMask® Extension (commonly referred to as the MetaMask® Wallet Extension or MetaMask® Chrome Extension when used in Chrome) is the core browser-based wallet. Installing this extension transforms your browser into a Web3-enabled environment:

  1. Secure Key Management: Generates and encrypts your private keys and Secret Recovery Phrase locally on your device. Never stored on servers.
  2. dApp Interaction: Connects your wallet to websites with one click, allowing you to sign transactions, swap tokens, stake assets, mint NFTs, and interact with smart contracts securely.
  3. Asset Management: Easily view balances, send, and receive ETH, tokens, and NFTs.
  4. Multi-Network Access: Switch effortlessly between Ethereum Mainnet, testnets, Layer 2s (Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism), and custom EVM-compatible networks.
  5. Integrated Swapping: Swap tokens directly within the extension using MetaMask®'s aggregator (fees apply).

Getting Your MetaMask® Wallet

Only download MetaMask® from official sources to avoid malicious imitations:

  1. Official Website: Visit MetaMask.io and click the "Download" button.
  2. Browser Extension Stores:
  1. Mobile Apps: Find "MetaMask®" on the official iOS App Store or Google Play Store (links on MetaMask.io).

Setup Process:

  1. After installation, click the extension icon in your browser toolbar.
  2. Create a New Wallet (recommended for new users) or Import an Existing Wallet using your Secret Recovery Phrase.
  3. New Wallet Setup:
  • Create a strong, unique local password (this encrypts wallet data on this device only).
  • Securely record your 12 or 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase. Write it down physically on paper, store it offline, and never share it digitally or with anyone. This phrase is the master key to your funds.
  • Confirm your Secret Recovery Phrase.
  1. Your wallet is now ready! Add accounts and explore networks.

Understanding "MetaMask® Login"

MetaMask® Login differs significantly from traditional online logins:

  1. Local Password: This unlocks the MetaMask® Extension on your specific browser/device. It protects the locally stored data but cannot recover your funds if forgotten. It is not a cloud password.
  2. Secret Recovery Phrase: This is the ultimate key to your blockchain assets. Never use it to "log in" anywhere except when restoring your wallet on a new device or after reinstalling. MetaMask® will never ask for it online.
  3. dApp Connection: When a website requests a "Login with MetaMask®", it means it wants permission to see your public wallet address(es) and request transactions. You approve or deny this connection within the MetaMask® Extension itself.

MetaMask.com: Your Essential Resource

MetaMask.io is the only official source for:

  • Secure MetaMask® Wallet download links (Extension & Mobile).
  • Comprehensive documentation, guides, and tutorials.
  • Latest announcements, updates, and security advisories.
  • Access to official support resources.

MetaMask® Wallet: Essential FAQs

Q1: Is the MetaMask® Wallet free?
A: Yes, downloading and using the MetaMask® Wallet is completely free. However, performing blockchain transactions (sends, swaps, dApp interactions) requires paying network gas fees in the relevant cryptocurrency (e.g., ETH on Ethereum). Token swaps via the extension may also include service provider fees.

Q2: I forgot my MetaMask® password. How do I recover access?
A: Your local password encrypts data only on that specific device/browser. It cannot be recovered by MetaMask®. To regain access:
1. Reinstall the MetaMask® Extension.
2. Choose "Import Wallet".
3. Enter your Secret Recovery Phrase.
4. Set a new local password. This underscores why safeguarding your Secret Recovery Phrase is critical.

Q3: Can I use the same wallet on multiple browsers and my phone?
A: Absolutely! Your wallet identity is defined by your Secret Recovery Phrase. Install MetaMask® on another browser or the mobile app and select "Import Wallet". Enter your existing Secret Recovery Phrase. All accounts derived from that phrase will appear. Your local password and settings are unique to each installation.

Q4: How do I know if a MetaMask® Chrome Extension is real?
A: Only install from official sources:
* The MetaMask.io website download link.
* The official Chrome Web Store listing.
Check the developer is "MetaMask" and it has millions of users & high ratings. Never install from third-party websites or links in emails/DMs.

Q5: What's the difference between the Extension and the Mobile App?
A: Both use the same Secret Recovery Phrase and core functionality. The Extension is ideal for desktop browsing and interacting with dApp websites. The Mobile App provides on-the-go access, portfolio management, and connects to mobile dApps or via WalletConnect. Use both for full flexibility.

Q6: What should I do if I suspect my device or MetaMask® is compromised?
A: Act Immediately:
1. Do NOT enter your Secret Recovery Phrase anywhere.
2. Move your funds to a new, secure wallet (created on a clean device) using your current MetaMask® access if still safe.
3. If access is lost or compromised, use your Secret Recovery Phrase (safely stored offline) to restore your wallet on a clean, secure device and move funds immediately.
4. Report phishing sites to MetaMask®.