MetaMask Login — Getting Started with MetaMask Wallet

Install MetaMask

MetaMask is available as a browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave) and as a mobile app. Install only from official app stores or the MetaMask website to avoid malicious copies.

• Browser extension: add the MetaMask extension from your browser's official extension store and pin the extension for quick access.
• Mobile app: download MetaMask from your device's app store and follow the app prompts.

Create or Restore a Wallet

1. Create a new wallet: Choose "Create a Wallet" and follow prompts to generate a secret recovery phrase (12 words). Record the phrase offline — it's the only way to restore your wallet.
2. Restore an existing wallet: Choose "Import with seed phrase" and enter your 12-word secret recovery phrase. Confirm and set a new password for the local vault.
3. Set a strong password: This password protects access in your browser or mobile device but is not a replacement for the recovery phrase.

MetaMask Login Flow

MetaMask does not use traditional username/password authentication. Instead, access is controlled by your device password and the secret recovery phrase used for restoration.

• To open MetaMask, click the extension icon or launch the mobile app and enter your local password (if set).
• Locked wallets require the password to unlock; if you forget it, restore using your secret recovery phrase.
• Keep the extension/app updated to ensure compatibility with dApps and security fixes.

Networks, Accounts & Tokens

MetaMask supports multiple networks (Ethereum mainnet, testnets, and custom RPCs) and lets you manage multiple accounts derived from the same seed.

• Switch networks: Use the network dropdown to select the correct chain before interacting with dApps.
• Add custom RPC: For alternative chains, add a custom RPC with the chain's RPC URL, chain ID, and currency symbol.
• Import tokens: Add tokens by contract address; verify addresses using reputable explorers to avoid fake tokens.

Connecting to dApps & Managing Approvals

1. Connect: When a dApp requests a connection, MetaMask will show a popup listing requested accounts and permissions.
2. Review transactions: For each transaction, check destination addresses, amounts, and gas fees before approving.
3. Manage approvals: Revoke or review token approvals regularly — unlimited approvals are convenient but risky.

Security Best Practices

• Never share your secret recovery phrase or private keys with anyone. MetaMask support will never ask for them.
• Use hardware wallets (e.g., Ledger, Trezor) for large balances and connect them to MetaMask for secure signing.
• Keep browser extensions and OS up to date. Remove suspicious extensions that could read page content.
• Be cautious with phishing sites — always verify the website URL and never enter your secret phrase into a web form.
• Regularly check connected sites and revoke access to unknown dApps from the "Connected Sites" section.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Extension missing: Ensure the extension is enabled in browser settings and pinned to the toolbar.
• Transaction stuck: Increase gas price or cancel/retry the transaction; check mempool explorers for network congestion.
• Cannot restore wallet: Verify seed phrase order and spelling; avoid copy-paste errors by entering words manually.
• Permissions prompt not appearing: Disable other extensions that may block popups or content scripts and reload the page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I lose my secret recovery phrase?

If you lose the phrase and your device fails, you cannot recover funds. Store the phrase securely offline.

Can MetaMask recover my wallet for me?

No — MetaMask cannot recover your wallet without your secret recovery phrase. They cannot access your private keys.

Is MetaMask free to use?

The software is free. Network transaction fees (gas) apply when sending transactions and interacting with smart contracts.