How to Create a New Wallet in MetaMask? Full Setup Guide for Beginners

Wallet Creation Interface Navigation

1. Launch the MetaMask browser extension after successful installation in Firefox or Chrome.

2. Click the “Get Started” button on the welcome screen to initiate the setup sequence.

3. Select “Create a Wallet” instead of “Import Wallet”, as this option generates a new cryptographic identity.

4. Enter a strong password containing uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and at least one special character.

5. Confirm the password and proceed — the system will generate a unique 12-word recovery phrase tied exclusively to this wallet instance.

Secure Recovery Phrase Handling

1. The 12-word seed phrase appears only once during creation; it serves as the sole cryptographic key to restore full control over all assets and addresses.

2. Write each word in exact sequential order on physical paper—never store it digitally, never take screenshots, never email or message it.

3. Verify the phrase by manually re-entering each word in the correct position when prompted by the interface.

4. Store the written phrase in a fireproof, tamper-evident safe separate from devices used to access the wallet.

5. Avoid sharing the phrase with anyone—even technical support personnel claiming to assist with recovery.

Network Configuration and Default Settings

1. Upon completion, MetaMask defaults to the Ethereum Mainnet, displaying an ETH balance of zero unless funded externally.

2. Use the network selector dropdown in the top-right corner to switch between Ethereum, Polygon, BSC, Arbitrum, or other EVM-compatible chains.

3. Each network requires its own native token for gas fees—ETH on Ethereum, MATIC on Polygon, BNB on BSC.

4. Adjust gas fee preferences manually under “Settings → Advanced → Show custom nonce” for precise transaction control.

5. Disable “Phishing Detection” only if fully aware of associated risks; the built-in warning system blocks known malicious domains automatically.

Asset Import and Token Management

1. To view ERC-20 tokens, click “Add Token” and select “Custom Token”, then paste the contract address, symbol, and decimals.

2. For NFTs, ensure the connected network matches where the asset was minted—Ethereum NFTs won’t appear when viewing Polygon balances.

3. Toggle visibility of tokens using the eye icon next to each asset name in the wallet interface.

4. Remove unused tokens from the display list without affecting on-chain holdings—this action is purely cosmetic.

5. Manually verify token contract addresses against official project documentation before adding any third-party asset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the same 12-word phrase across multiple devices?Yes. The phrase restores identical accounts and private keys on any compatible wallet software, including mobile versions of MetaMask.

Q: What happens if I forget my MetaMask password but still have the recovery phrase?You can reset the password at any time using the phrase—no account lockout or irreversible loss occurs.

Q: Why does MetaMask show “0 ETH” even after receiving funds?This usually indicates either incorrect network selection or a pending transaction not yet confirmed on-chain; check the transaction hash on Etherscan.

Q: Is it safe to keep MetaMask installed while browsing decentralized applications?It is safe if you never approve unauthorized signature requests and always confirm recipient addresses and amounts before submitting transactions.