MetaMask is a simple to use and free crypto wallet software that can be connected to any Dapp (Decentralized Application) or Smart Contact built on top of the Ethereum blockchain.
The “hot” wallet is permanently connected to the internet to easily allow it’s users to move their crypto asset around at any time. Users will have the ability to create, sell, and trade non-fungible tokens (NFTs), ERC-20 tokens (Ethereum-based Tokens), or even lend assets on decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols.
MetaMask has become one of the most popular wallets amongst the crypto community due to its interoperability (the ability to interact and exchange information with other systems or software) with virtually all Ethereum-based platforms. The wallet connects to well over 3000 decentralized applications and Web 3 services.
MetaMask’s main mission is to protect a user’s browsing experience and personal data in the new internet world.
So how do you set up your own MetaMask wallet?
Note: The following steps are based on the current design of the website as of 4/16/2022
Step 1: Head over to https://metamask.io/
Step 2: Tap on the blue “Download” button. This will redirect you to the download page.
Step 3: On the download page you’ll be presented with the following options:
For the purpose of this guide we’ll be installing MetaMask for Chrome Desktop. Chrome is the most used browser on the internet.
Step 4: Tap on the blue “Install MetaMask For Chrome” button. This will redirect you to the Chrome Web Store.
Step 5: Tap on the blue “Add to Chrome” button. A small pop-up will appear requesting permission to add the extension. Tap on “Add Extension” to add it to your Chrome browser.
Once added you will be redirected to the get started page and you should also see the MetaMask icon to the right of your URL bar.
If you don’t see the MetaMask icon, tap on the puzzle icon to the right of your URL bar to open up your extensions list. Find MetaMask and click on the clear “Pin” icon next to it to add MetaMask to your browser’s URL bar.
Step 6: Tap on “Get Started”. You’ll be redirected to the next page where two option will be presented to you (See Below)
Step 7: Select the “Create a wallet” option. This will redirect you to their short disclaimer page.
Tap on “I Agree” and you will be prompted to create a password.
Create your new password and hit the checkbox to agree to the “Terms of Use” (It’s highly recommended that you read the terms of use so you have an understanding of what you’re agreeing to)
IMPORTANT: You should never try to save or create a digital copy of any password you create. This includes actions like screenshotting, emailing it yourself, or saving it as a note on your computer. Anything stored digitally is accessible to hackers.
It’s best that you create a safe and secure physical environment to store your passwords.
You will need to enter your password each time you want to access your MetaMask wallet.
Step 8: After creating your password you will be directed to a video that will explain the process of securing your wallet, what a secret recovery phrase is, and how you should properly copy it down (physically, not in digital form).
A secret recovery phrase is a randomized phrase composed of 12 words that can be used as a backup in case you lose the device where your MetaMask wallet is downloaded.
You can use the phrase to help you import your wallet onto a new device.
Once you’ve watched the video tap on “Next”. You’ll be redirected to see your “Secret Recovery Phrase”.
Step 9: Make sure that you’re in a safe and secure location before revealing your secret words. Tap on “CLICK HERE TO REVEAL SECRET WORDS” to see your Secret Recovery Phrase.
It’s critical that you write down the words in the order shown. You won’t be able to import or restore your account on a new device if the words are in the wrong order - even if you got all 12 words right.
Step 10: Tap “Next” after you’ve safely copied your secret phrase. In order to move forward MetaMask will prompt you to select the 12-word phrase in the correct order.
Once you’ve properly entered your secret phrase you’ll be redirected to a completion page.
Tap on “All Done” and you’ll be redirected to your MetaMask Wallet.
Your MetaMask Wallet is now installed on your browser and can be easily accessed from the chrome extension on the top right of the URL bar.
Congratulations!
Once you’ve completed the steps above and have gained access to your MetaMask wallet it’s important to understand the components of your wallet and their functionalities.
The bullet points below will address each important component labeled on the image below and an example use case.
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