What is MetaMask?
MetaMask is a wallet and gateway to blockchain applications. It lets you store keys, manage multiple accounts, sign transactions, and connect to decentralized apps (dApps) from your browser or mobile device. Because MetaMask is non‑custodial, you are responsible for securing your seed phrase and device — MetaMask does not store your private keys.
Supported Platforms & Official Downloads
Install MetaMask only from official sources: the official download page, or the browser’s extension stores (Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, etc.) and official mobile app stores. Avoid third‑party mirrors which may host malicious versions.
How Login Works
MetaMask does not have a cloud login. Instead:
- On first install you create a new wallet which generates a seed phrase (12-word secret recovery phrase) and set a local password to unlock the extension or app.
- On subsequent uses you unlock the extension or app with that password or biometric unlock on mobile.
- If you install MetaMask on a new device, you recover using your seed phrase — this restores private keys locally so you can access your accounts.
Step-by-step: Setting Up & Signing In
- Install MetaMask from the official download page or your browser/app store.
- Open the extension/app and choose Create a Wallet or Import Wallet if you already have a recovery phrase.
- Create a strong password to secure the local vault — this password unlocks MetaMask on that device.
- Write down and securely store your recovery phrase — this is the only way to restore your wallet on another device.
- Use the unlock password (or biometrics on mobile) to sign in locally and access accounts. MetaMask will request confirmation on the device for any transaction or permission grant.
Seed Phrase Safety — The Most Important Thing
Your seed phrase (secret recovery phrase) is the master key. Protect it like a physical bank vault key:
- Write the phrase by hand on paper or better, a metal backup — do not store it digitally (no photos, text files, or cloud backups).
- Store backups in at least two geographically separated secure locations if funds are substantial.
- Never share your seed phrase — MetaMask support will never ask for it.
- Consider a passphrase (optional) for an additional layer of protection — but understand that forgetting a passphrase can make funds unrecoverable.
Security Features & Best Practices
- Use a strong unlock password for your MetaMask vault on each device.
- Enable hardware wallet integration (Ledger, Trezor) for cold‑key signing of high‑value transactions.
- Limit the amount of funds kept in a hot wallet — use MetaMask for active interactions and keep long‑term storage in cold wallets.
- Review dApp permissions carefully; revoke unused permissions from the connected sites page.
- Keep your browser and OS up to date and avoid installing untrusted extensions that could access page content.
Biometric & Mobile Unlock
MetaMask mobile supports biometric unlock (Face ID, Touch ID) for convenience. Biometrics protect local access but do not replace the seed phrase — keep both secure. On shared devices, consider not enabling biometric unlock or protect the device with a strong passcode.
Using MetaMask with dApps
When you connect MetaMask to a dApp, the dApp requests permission to view addresses and ask for signatures. Always:
- Check the domain and ensure it’s the legitimate dApp (look for typos or fake domains).
- Only sign messages or transactions you understand — signing arbitrary messages can grant permissions or authorize token spends.
- Use a separate account/address for each dApp where practical, limiting cross‑site exposure.
Troubleshooting Common Sign‑In Problems
- Extension not visible: ensure the extension is enabled in your browser and not hidden behind extension menus.
- Forgot local password: you can reset by reinstalling the extension and importing your wallet with the seed phrase — make sure you have the phrase first.
- Seed phrase mismatch: double‑check word order and spelling; seed words must be exact.
- Transactions failing: check network selection (Ethereum Mainnet vs testnets), gas settings, and that the correct account is selected.
- Consult MetaMask Support and the official FAQs for step‑by‑step help.
Hardware Wallets & MetaMask
For larger balances, connect a hardware wallet (Ledger or Trezor) to MetaMask. This keeps private keys offline while MetaMask serves as a UX layer — all signing happens on the hardware device, significantly reducing attack surface.
Privacy Considerations
MetaMask exposes public addresses to dApps you connect to. If privacy is a concern, use multiple accounts, manage which addresses you share, and consider running your own node for balance lookups to reduce data shared with third‑party indexers. See the developer docs for advanced configurations.
Recovery Planning
Test your recovery process on a spare device with a small amount of funds if possible. Keep a written recovery plan (not including seed words) for trusted heirs or intermediaries that explains where backups are stored and how to access them securely.
Where to Get Official Help
Final Recommendations
MetaMask gives you full control of your Web3 identity and assets. That power comes with responsibility: always protect your seed phrase, use strong local passwords and hardware wallets when possible, limit the funds you keep in hot wallets, and verify every signature and permission request. If you're ever unsure about a request, pause and consult official docs or support before approving.