What to do if MetaMask is not connecting to a website?

Troubleshooting MetaMask Connection Issues

1. Ensure that MetaMask is properly installed and activated in your browser. Sometimes, browser extensions may become disabled after updates or crashes. Open your browser’s extension manager, locate MetaMask, and toggle it on if it’s inactive. After reactivation, refresh the webpage you're trying to connect to.

2. Confirm that you are using a supported browser. MetaMask works seamlessly with Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge. Using outdated or unsupported browsers can prevent the wallet from injecting the Web3 provider into the page, resulting in a failed connection.

3. Clear your browser cache and site data. Corrupted cache files or stored permissions can interfere with the handshake between MetaMask and decentralized applications (dApps). Navigate to your browser settings, find the privacy or storage section, and clear data specifically for the website you're trying to connect to.

4. Check if pop-ups are blocked. MetaMask relies on pop-up windows to initiate the connection and request approvals. If your browser blocks pop-ups by default, manually allow them for the dApp’s domain or disable the pop-up blocker temporarily.

5. Refresh the dApp page after unlocking MetaMask. If the wallet is locked when you attempt to connect, the provider won’t be available. Unlock your wallet first, then reload the site and click the 'Connect Wallet' button again.

Verifying Website and Network Compatibility

1. Make sure the website supports MetaMask integration. Not all blockchain platforms or dApps are built to work with browser wallets. Look for official documentation or support pages that confirm MetaMask compatibility before attempting to connect.

2. Check the network the dApp operates on. Many decentralized applications run on specific networks like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, or Polygon. If your MetaMask wallet is set to a different network, the connection may fail. Switch to the correct network within MetaMask’s network selector.

3. Add the required network manually if it’s not listed. Some newer or niche blockchains aren’t preloaded in MetaMask. Use the 'Add Network' feature and input the correct RPC URL, chain ID, and currency symbol as provided by the dApp’s technical documentation.

4. Confirm that the website’s URL is correct and secure. Phishing sites often mimic legitimate dApps but cannot establish a real connection with MetaMask. Always verify the domain and look for HTTPS and trusted security indicators.

5. Disable conflicting browser extensions. Privacy tools, ad blockers, or other crypto wallets (like Coinbase Wallet or Phantom) might interfere with MetaMask’s injection process. Temporarily disable these extensions to test if the connection succeeds.

Re-establishing Wallet Integration

1. Disconnect and reconnect your wallet from the dApp interface. Most platforms allow you to disconnect via the wallet menu. Click 'Disconnect,' then initiate a new connection. This forces a fresh provider handshake and often resolves stuck sessions.

2. Reset MetaMask account permissions. Within MetaMask settings, go to 'Connected Sites' and remove the permissions granted to the problematic website. This clears any corrupted session data and allows you to start fresh.

3. Use the MetaMask mobile app with WalletConnect if browser issues persist. Some websites offer alternative connection methods. Scan the QR code from the dApp using the MetaMask mobile app to establish a secure bridge.

4. Reinstall the MetaMask extension if problems continue. Uninstall the current version, restart your browser, then download and install the latest version from the official MetaMask website to ensure you have the most stable build.

5. Ensure your MetaMask is updated to the latest version. Older versions may lack support for recent Ethereum improvements or dApp standards, leading to integration failures. Check the extension store for updates regularly.

Common Issues and Their Solutions

Why does MetaMask show 'Connecting...' but never complete? This usually happens when the dApp fails to receive the provider object due to a script error or network timeout. Refresh the page, disable ad blockers, and verify your internet connection. If the issue persists, check the browser console for JavaScript errors related to MetaMask.

Can a dApp steal funds just by connecting? No. Connecting MetaMask only shares your public address and allows the dApp to request transaction signatures. Funds cannot be moved without your explicit approval in MetaMask. Always review transaction details before confirming.

What if MetaMask doesn’t pop up when I click 'Connect'? The pop-up might be suppressed by browser settings. Check the extensions toolbar for a small MetaMask icon indicating a blocked pop-up. Click it to allow the window. Also, ensure no other wallet extension is taking precedence.

Does clearing browser data affect my crypto assets? No. Your private keys and assets are stored securely in MetaMask and are not affected by browser cache or cookies. Clearing site data only removes temporary permissions and session information, not wallet contents.