metamask banner

MetaMask® Extension: Your Gateway to Web3 Wallet 

Take control of your digital assets and explore decentralized applications (dApps) seamlessly with the MetaMask® Extension, your trusted non-custodial wallet for browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge. Available directly from MetaMask.io, it puts you in charge of your cryptocurrencies and digital identity on the Ethereum blockchain and compatible networks.

What is the MetaMask® Wallet?

The MetaMask® Wallet is a free, open-source software cryptocurrency wallet. Its core principle is self-custody: you hold and control your private keys, meaning you truly own your assets. Unlike exchange wallets, MetaMask® gives you direct access to the decentralized web (Web3), enabling interaction with thousands of dApps, DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and more.

The Heart of Your Browser: The MetaMask® Extension

The MetaMask® Extension (often called the MetaMask® Wallet Extension or MetaMask® Chrome Extension when used in Chrome) is the browser plugin version of the wallet. It integrates directly into your browser, acting as both a secure vault for your keys and a bridge to Web3:

  1. Secure Key Management: Generates and encrypts your private keys and Secret Recovery Phrase locally on your device.
  2. dApp Interaction: Seamlessly connects your wallet to websites, allowing you to sign transactions, swap tokens, mint NFTs, stake assets, and interact with smart contracts.
  3. Token & NFT Management: Easily view, send, and receive Ethereum (ETH), ERC-20 tokens, and ERC-721/ERC-1155 NFTs.
  4. Multi-Network Support: Switch between Ethereum Mainnet, testnets (like Goerli, Sepolia), and popular Layer 2 networks (Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, etc.) or add custom networks.
  5. Built-in Swap: Access token swapping directly within the extension via integrated aggregators (subject to availability and fees).

Getting Started: Download & Setup

Setting up the MetaMask® Extension is quick and secure:

  1. Official Download: Only download the genuine MetaMask® Extension from the official source: MetaMask.io. Navigate to the website and click the prominent "Download" button.
  2. Browser Store Install: Alternatively, install directly from your browser's official extension store:
  1. Create or Import Wallet:
  • New Wallet: Follow the prompts to create a new wallet. This generates your unique, crucially important Secret Recovery Phrase (12 or 24 words). Write this down physically, store it securely offline, and NEVER share it.
  • Import Wallet: If you have an existing wallet, select "Import Wallet" and enter your Secret Recovery Phrase.
  1. Set a Strong Password: Create a secure password to encrypt your wallet data locally on this specific browser/device. This is your MetaMask® Login for this device.

Understanding "MetaMask® Login"

Unlike centralized services, MetaMask® Login does not involve a username/password combo sent to a server. It's local device access:

  1. Password: The password you set during installation encrypts your wallet's local data (like imported accounts, network settings, preferences) on that specific browser/device. You enter this password to unlock the extension on that device.
  2. Secret Recovery Phrase: This is the master key to your entire wallet and funds across any device. It's used to restore your wallet if you switch browsers, devices, or lose access. Never use it as a login password. Never enter it on any website.
  3. Connecting to dApps: When a website asks you to "Login with MetaMask®", it simply requests permission to view your public wallet address(es) and send transaction requests. You approve or reject connection requests directly within the extension.

MetaMask.com: Your Central Hub

MetaMask.io is your essential resource for:

  • MetaMask® Wallet Download: Secure links for all extensions and mobile apps.
  • Official Documentation: Comprehensive guides, tutorials, and FAQs.
  • Latest News & Updates: Stay informed about new features and security alerts.
  • Community & Support: Access support resources and connect with the community.

MetaMask® Extension: Essential FAQs

Q1: Is the MetaMask® Extension free to use?
A: Yes, downloading and using the MetaMask® Extension is completely free. However, interacting with the blockchain (sending transactions, using dApps, swapping tokens) requires paying network gas fees in the native cryptocurrency (like ETH on Ethereum), determined by the network, not MetaMask®. Swaps may also include service provider fees.

Q2: I forgot my MetaMask® password. Can I recover it?
A: No, your local password cannot be recovered by MetaMask®. It only encrypts data on that specific device. However, your Secret Recovery Phrase is the master key. You can uninstall/reinstall the extension (or install on a new device) and use the "Import Wallet" option with your Secret Recovery Phrase to regain full access. This is why securing your phrase is paramount.

Q3: Can I use the same wallet on multiple browsers/devices?
A: Yes! Your wallet is defined by your Secret Recovery Phrase. Install the MetaMask® Extension on another browser or device, select "Import Wallet," and enter your existing Secret Recovery Phrase. All accounts derived from that phrase will appear. Your local settings and password are per-device.

Q4: Is the MetaMask® Chrome Extension safe?
A: The official extension from the Chrome Web Store (via MetaMask.io) is safe. However, security depends heavily on your actions:
* Only download from official sources (MetaMask.io or browser stores).
* Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase or private keys with anyone or any website.
* Beware of phishing sites mimicking MetaMask® login or dApps.
* Keep your browser and OS updated.
* Use strong, unique passwords and enable device security.

Q5: What's the difference between the MetaMask® Extension and Mobile App?
A: Both provide the core wallet functionality using the same Secret Recovery Phrase. The Extension is for desktop browsers, ideal for interacting with dApp websites. The Mobile App (iOS/Android) is for on-the-go access, managing assets, and connecting to mobile dApps or via WalletConnect. They can sync using the same recovery phrase.

Q6: I see "MetaMask® Wallet Extension" and "MetaMask® Extension" – are they different?
A: No, these terms refer to the same thing: the browser plugin version of the MetaMask® wallet. "MetaMask® Wallet Extension" is simply a more descriptive name sometimes used. The official name is the MetaMask® Extension.