How to use MetaMask? What are the basic functions for a beginner?

Setting Up MetaMask

1. Visit the official MetaMask website and download the browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, Brave, or Edge.

2. Click “Add to Chrome” and confirm the installation prompt to complete the setup.

3. Launch the extension and click “Get Started”, then select “Create a Wallet”.

4. Agree to the terms, create a strong password, and securely save the 12-word secret recovery phrase—this phrase must never be shared or stored online.

5. Confirm the seed phrase in the correct order to verify ownership and gain access to your wallet dashboard.

Understanding Your Wallet Address

1. After setup, MetaMask displays your primary Ethereum address as a 42-character hexadecimal string beginning with “0x”.

2. This address functions like a bank account number—it is safe to share publicly when receiving ETH or tokens.

3. Each address is cryptographically tied to your private key, which remains hidden and protected by your password and seed phrase.

4. You can view your address by clicking the account icon in the top-right corner and selecting “Account Details”.

5. Copying the address correctly is essential—MetaMask includes a one-click copy button to prevent manual errors.

Sending and Receiving Assets

1. To receive assets, click “Receive” and share your wallet address or QR code with the sender.

2. To send ETH or ERC-20 tokens, click “Send”, paste the recipient’s address, enter the amount, and choose a network fee level.

3. MetaMask automatically estimates gas fees based on current network congestion; users may manually adjust these in advanced settings.

4. Before confirming, always double-check the recipient address—transactions on Ethereum are irreversible once broadcast.

5. For tokens not visible in your wallet, use “Import Token” and input the contract address, symbol, and decimals to add them manually.

Connecting to dApps

1. Navigate to a decentralized application such as Uniswap, OpenSea, or Aave using your browser.

2. Click “Connect Wallet” on the dApp interface and select MetaMask from the available options.

3. Approve the connection request in the MetaMask popup—this does not grant the dApp access to your private keys.

4. Some dApps require additional permissions, such as signing messages or approving token allowances; each action triggers a separate MetaMask confirmation.

5. Always verify the domain name of the dApp before connecting—phishing sites often mimic legitimate interfaces to steal credentials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the same MetaMask wallet on mobile and desktop?Yes. Install the MetaMask Mobile app, select “I already have a wallet”, and restore using your 12-word secret recovery phrase.

Q: Why did my transaction get stuck?A low gas fee may cause delays during high network activity. Use MetaMask’s “Speed Up” or “Cancel” option in the Activity tab to replace the pending transaction.

Q: Is it safe to import a hardware wallet into MetaMask?MetaMask supports Ledger and Trezor devices. The private keys remain on the hardware device—MetaMask only communicates with it for signing, preserving security.

Q: What happens if I lose my password but still have my seed phrase?You can recover full access by reinstalling MetaMask and restoring the wallet using the seed phrase. The password is only for local device encryption—not required for blockchain recovery.