MetaMask Extension for Chrome — Install, Setup & Safety Tips

Why MetaMask?

MetaMask is a popular browser extension wallet that lets you interact with Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks, manage tokens and NFTs, and connect to decentralized apps (dApps) right from Chrome.

• Fast browser wallet — works as a Chrome extension.
• Support for Ethereum & many networks (via custom RPC).
• Easy dApp connection (DeFi, NFT marketplaces, games).

1) Install MetaMask Extension (Chrome)

1. Open Chrome and go to the official MetaMask page: metamask.io.
2. Click Download → choose Chrome → click "Install MetaMask for Chrome" which opens the Chrome Web Store listing.
3. Confirm by clicking Add to Chrome and then Add extension. The MetaMask fox icon appears in your toolbar.

Important: Always download MetaMask from metamask.io or the official Chrome Web Store listing — avoid third-party links and cloned extensions.

2) Create or Import a Wallet

1. Click the MetaMask fox icon in Chrome and choose Get Started.
2. Select Create a Wallet to make a new wallet, or Import wallet if you already have a seed phrase.
3. Create a strong password for the extension (this protects local access to MetaMask on this device).
4. Write down the 12-word seed phrase (Secret Recovery Phrase) shown — store it offline and never share it. Confirm by entering a few words when prompted.

Seed phrase safety: MetaMask will never ask you to share your seed phrase via email, chat, or social media. If asked, it’s a scam.

3) Add Networks & Tokens

MetaMask defaults to the Ethereum Mainnet. To use other networks or tokens:

• Add a network: Click the network dropdown (top of MetaMask) → Add network → enter RPC URL, chain ID and other required fields (from a trusted source).
• Add tokens: Scroll to Assets → Add Token → search or add a custom token contract address.

4) Connect to dApps

1. Open a dApp (e.g., a DeFi site or NFT marketplace).
2. Click the site’s Connect Wallet button and choose MetaMask.
3. Review the connection prompt in MetaMask and approve only if the dApp is trusted.

Disconnect sites you no longer use from Connected sites in MetaMask settings.

Safety Tips — Protect Your Funds

• Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase. Store it offline (hardware safe, steel plate, or paper stored securely).
• Enable hardware wallet integration. For large balances, use a hardware wallet (Ledger/Trezor) and connect it via MetaMask.
• Use a separate browser profile. Use MetaMask in a dedicated Chrome profile to reduce exposure to malicious extensions.
• Validate sites and links. Bookmark official dApps and avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages.
• Beware of phishing signatures. Never sign messages or transactions unless you understand the request — signing can authorize approvals.
• Keep software updated. Update Chrome, MetaMask, and any security tools regularly.

Troubleshooting & Common Questions

Q: I lost my seed phrase — can I recover my wallet?

A: Not without the seed phrase. If you don’t have it or a backup, you cannot restore the wallet. Always store backups offline.

Q: How do I remove a suspicious extension?

A: Go to chrome://extensions, find the extension and click “Remove.” Run a malware scan and change your MetaMask password and seed phrase if you suspect compromise.

Q: MetaMask shows wrong balance — what now?

A: Ensure you’re on the correct network (Mainnet vs testnet). If tokens are missing, add the token contract manually under Assets → Add Token.

Q: Is MetaMask custody or non-custodial?

A: MetaMask is non-custodial — you control the private keys/seed phrase. That means security is your responsibility.

Advanced: Hardware Wallets & Security

For added security, connect a hardware wallet (Ledger or Trezor) to MetaMask:

1. Open MetaMask → Account icon → Connect hardware wallet.
2. Follow the prompts to pair Ledger/Trezor. Approve transactions on the hardware device.

Using a hardware wallet prevents your private keys from being exposed to the browser.

Quick Reference — Safe Command Checklist