How to set up a new MetaMask wallet from scratch?

Installing and Accessing MetaMask

1. Navigate to the official MetaMask website or open your browser’s extension store such as Chrome Web Store. Ensure you are downloading from a verified source to avoid counterfeit versions.

2. Click on “Add to Chrome” or the equivalent option for your preferred browser. Confirm the installation when prompted by the browser’s security settings.

3. Once installed, click on the puzzle piece icon in your browser toolbar, locate MetaMask, and pin it for easy access. A new tab will automatically open launching the setup wizard.

4. Choose “Get Started” to begin creating your wallet. You’ll be presented with two options: “Create a Wallet” or “Import Wallet.” Select “Create a Wallet” since you’re setting up a new one.

Creating Your Secret Recovery Phrase

1. After selecting “Create a Wallet,” you’ll need to create an account by entering a strong password. This password encrypts your local wallet data and is required each time you access MetaMask on this device.

2. Upon confirming your password, MetaMask generates a 12-word secret recovery phrase. This phrase is the master key to your wallet and grants full access to all associated funds and assets.

3. Carefully write down the words in the exact order they appear. Do not store them digitally—avoid screenshots, cloud storage, or messaging apps—as these can be compromised.

4. MetaMask will prompt you to verify your recovery phrase by asking you to select specific words in sequence. Complete this step accurately to confirm you’ve securely recorded the phrase.

Completing Setup and Securing Your Wallet

1. After verification, your wallet is officially created. You’ll be directed to the main dashboard showing your Ethereum address, account balance, and network selection.

2. Copy your public address to receive funds. Anyone can send cryptocurrency to this address, but only you—with your password and recovery phrase—can access the assets.

3. Consider enabling additional security features such as biometric authentication if available on your device. This adds a layer of protection during daily use.

4. Regularly update the MetaMask extension to ensure you have the latest security patches and feature improvements directly from the development team.

5. For enhanced safety, consider using MetaMask on a dedicated device that isn’t used for general browsing, minimizing exposure to phishing attempts and malware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I lose my MetaMask recovery phrase?If you lose your recovery phrase and forget your password, there is no way to recover your wallet. All funds and tokens stored in that wallet will be permanently inaccessible. Always store your recovery phrase offline in a secure physical location.

Can I use the same recovery phrase on multiple devices?Yes. By using the same 12-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on another device or browser. This ensures continuity of access, but also means that anyone with the phrase can take full control of your assets.

Is MetaMask safe for storing large amounts of cryptocurrency?While MetaMask is convenient for interacting with decentralized applications and managing digital assets, it is considered a hot wallet—connected to the internet. For significant holdings, consider transferring funds to a hardware wallet for cold storage.

How do I switch between different blockchain networks in MetaMask?Within the MetaMask interface, click on the network dropdown (usually showing “Ethereum Mainnet”). Select a pre-added network like Polygon or Binance Smart Chain, or manually add a custom RPC network by entering its details under “Settings > Networks > Add Network.”