Introduction
MetaMask is a widely used Ethereum-compatible wallet available as a browser extension and a mobile app. It allows you to manage Ethereum, Layer-2 tokens, and many EVM-compatible chains, sign transactions, and connect to dApps like decentralized exchanges, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi protocols. Logging in to MetaMask means unlocking your wallet with a password (or biometrics on mobile) — but the true access control is your secret recovery phrase (seed phrase). Keep both password and seed phrase secure.
1. Install MetaMask (browser extension or mobile app)
Choose the MetaMask version that fits your workflow:
- Browser extension — available for Chrome, Brave, Firefox, and Edge. Use the official MetaMask website or your browser’s official web store to install.
- Mobile app — available for iOS and Android in the App Store and Google Play. The app supports biometric unlock and wallet connect for dApp connections from mobile browsers.
Pro tip: Always verify the publisher name and install from the official source. Malicious fake extensions/apps exist. When in doubt, go to the official MetaMask site and follow direct links to stores.
2. Create a new wallet or import an existing one
After installing MetaMask, you’ll be prompted to either create a new wallet or import one using a seed phrase (also called recovery phrase) or private key.
Create a new wallet
- Open the MetaMask extension or app and choose Create a Wallet.
- Choose whether to help improve MetaMask by sharing anonymous usage metrics (optional).
- Create a strong password. This password encrypts your wallet locally and is required to unlock MetaMask on that device.
- MetaMask will display a 12-word secret recovery phrase. Write it down, store it offline in a secure place (safe, safety deposit box), and never share it with anyone.
Import an existing wallet
- Choose Import Wallet and enter your 12/24-word recovery phrase or a private key in the exact order provided by your previous wallet.
- Create a local password for this device after the import completes.
Warning: Anyone with your secret recovery phrase or private key can fully control your funds. MetaMask staff or support will never ask for your seed phrase. Do not enter it on websites or share it with anyone.
3. Understand the secret recovery phrase (seed phrase)
The secret recovery phrase is the master key to your wallet. It deterministically recreates your private keys and addresses. Protect it like you would protect a bank vault key.
- Write it down on paper or a metal backup device and store it offline.
- Do not store it in cloud notes, screenshots, email drafts, or unencrypted digital files.
- Consider making multiple physical backups kept in separate secure locations.
- Use a hardware wallet for significant balances — MetaMask can connect to hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) so the private keys never leave the hardware device.
If you lose your recovery phrase and device, you will not be able to recover your wallet.
4. How MetaMask login works (unlocking your wallet)
MetaMask login is device-specific and works like this:
- You unlock the extension or app with your local password (or biometric on mobile).
- Unlocking decrypts the wallet stored on the device so MetaMask can sign transactions and show balances.
- If you clear browser data or reinstall, you will need your secret recovery phrase to restore the wallet.
Because unlocking depends on a local password, use a strong one and combine it with secure device practices (screen lock, disk encryption). Remember: the password alone cannot recover a lost seed phrase — it only unlocks the encrypted data on that device.
5. Connecting MetaMask to decentralized apps (dApps)
To use a dApp, such as a decentralized exchange (DEX) or NFT marketplace, the dApp will ask MetaMask to connect. Typical flow:
- Open the dApp in your browser or mobile browser.
- Click Connect Wallet and choose MetaMask.
- MetaMask will show a pop-up asking you to approve the connection and select which account to expose.
- After connecting, the dApp can read public account data and request transaction signatures for on-chain actions.
Only connect to dApps you trust. Connecting allows the dApp to see your public address and balances. It does not give the dApp control over funds until you sign explicit transactions.
6. Signing transactions and understanding permissions
When a dApp requests a transaction, MetaMask presents a confirmation showing gas fees, network, and the action being taken. Carefully review before approving.
- Approval vs. Transfer: Approving a token allows a smart contract to spend tokens on your behalf; transferring moves tokens out. Limit approval amounts when possible.
- Gas fees: Estimate gas and consider using Layer-2 solutions when supported to reduce cost.
- Transaction data: Check the recipient address, value, and method if the dApp shows them; if anything looks wrong, reject the transaction.
Be cautious with blanket approvals (e.g., “Approve unlimited”). Use low allowances and revoke approvals after use via token allowance dashboards or on-chain tools.
7. Security best practices
MetaMask provides convenience — security depends on you. Follow these practical rules:
- Use a hardware wallet (Ledger/Trezor) for large balances; keep only trading amounts in MetaMask.
- Never share your seed phrase — not with support, not with friends, not with strangers.
- Be cautious with browser extensions — malicious extensions can read and manipulate wallet interactions.
- Keep your OS and browser updated and avoid unknown or pirated software.
- Use a separate browser profile for crypto activities, and minimize other plugins in that profile.
- Verify URLs before connecting your wallet to any site — phishing sites mimic legitimate dApps.
- Revoke unused permissions and regularly audit connected sites via MetaMask’s connected sites list or third-party tools.
If you suspect compromise, move remaining funds to a new wallet generated on a secure device and revoke approvals from the old address.
8. MetaMask mobile: biometrics, WalletConnect, and convenience
MetaMask mobile supports biometric unlock (Face ID, Touch ID) for fast access and integrates WalletConnect, a protocol for securely connecting mobile wallets to dApps in mobile browsers and desktop sites. WalletConnect avoids using the extension popup by scanning a QR code and routing requests to your phone.
- Biometric unlock: More convenient — ensure your phone itself is secured with PIN or biometric lock.
- WalletConnect: Use WalletConnect where supported to keep your private keys on mobile while interacting with desktop dApps.
9. Troubleshooting common login and access issues
Problems can usually be resolved quickly if you follow these steps:
- Forgot password (extension)
- MetaMask password is local to the device. If you forget it, you must restore the wallet using your secret recovery phrase via Import Wallet. Use your seed phrase to recreate the wallet on the same or a different device.
- Seed phrase not accepted
- Ensure words are correct, in order, and separated by single spaces. Check for hidden characters from copy/paste. If you still have issues, check whether the seed phrase was for a different wallet standard (e.g., some wallets use non-standard seeds).
- Extension popup not appearing
- Try disabling other extensions to find a conflict, restart the browser, or open the MetaMask extension from the toolbar directly. Also check browser pop-up and permission settings.
- Transactions failing (out of gas)
- Increase gas limit or gas price to match network conditions. Use the gas estimator or a reputable on-chain explorer to view typical fees.
- Connected dApp shows incorrect balance
- Refresh the dApp and MetaMask. Ensure you are on the correct network (Mainnet, Polygon, BSC, etc.). Some dApps require you to switch to specific chains.
10. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- Can MetaMask be recovered if I lose my device?
- Yes — restore using your secret recovery phrase on a new device or fresh install. If you lose the seed phrase, funds cannot be recovered.
- Should I share my seed phrase for support?
- No. MetaMask support will never ask for your seed phrase. Sharing it is equivalent to giving full control of your funds.
- Can I use MetaMask with multiple accounts?
- Yes. MetaMask lets you create and manage multiple accounts (addresses). Each account derives from the same seed phrase unless you import additional private keys or connect hardware wallets.
- Is MetaMask free?
- Yes — the MetaMask software is free. You’ll pay network (gas) fees for on-chain transactions and any optional service fees for swaps or fiat purchases through integrated providers.
- What is MetaMask Swap?
- MetaMask Swap is an in-wallet feature that aggregates quotes from multiple decentralized exchanges. It may include a service fee shown in the interface before you confirm a swap.
11. Short glossary
- Seed phrase / Recovery phrase: A human-readable backup of your wallet — 12 or 24 words.
- Private key: A single key that controls one address — keep it secret.
- Gas: Fee paid to miners/validators for on-chain transaction processing.
- dApp: Decentralized application that interacts with the blockchain.
- Hardware wallet: A physical device that stores private keys offline.
12. Final checklist before you log in
- Install MetaMask from an official source and verify the publisher.
- Write down your secret recovery phrase on paper or steel — store it offline in a secure place.
- Set a strong local password and use a separate browser profile for crypto activity.
- Use hardware wallets for large balances; connect them to MetaMask for signing.
- Before approving transactions, verify recipients, amounts, and gas fees.
- Regularly audit connected sites and revoke unused permissions.
Following these steps will significantly reduce the chance of losing funds and help you use MetaMask confidently across dApps and networks.