How do I transfer MetaMask to a new device?

Transferring MetaMask to a New Device

1. Open the MetaMask app on your current device and navigate to the account settings. Locate the option labeled 'Security & Privacy' where you'll find your Secret Recovery Phrase. This phrase consists of 12 or 24 words and is essential for restoring your wallet on another device.

2. Carefully write down each word in the correct order on a physical medium. Avoid storing it digitally, especially in cloud storage or messaging apps, as this increases exposure to hackers. Ensure no one is watching you during this process and double-check the spelling of each word.

3. Install the MetaMask application on your new device from the official app store or website. Confirm that you are downloading the authentic version to avoid phishing scams. Once installed, open the app and select “Import Wallet” instead of “Create a Wallet.”

4. Enter your Secret Recovery Phrase exactly as written, maintaining the original sequence. After inputting all words, the app will verify their accuracy. If accepted, your accounts, transaction history, and token balances will appear on the new device.

5. Set a new password for the MetaMask wallet on the new device. This password encrypts your local data and protects access if someone gains physical control of your phone or computer. Do not reuse weak passwords and consider enabling biometric authentication if available.

Protecting Your Recovery Phrase During Transfer

1. Never transmit your recovery phrase over email, text message, or social media platforms. These channels are vulnerable to interception and can lead to irreversible fund loss. The phrase should only exist offline and under your direct supervision.

2. Consider using a metal backup device designed for cryptocurrency seed phrases. These tools resist fire, water, and physical wear, offering long-term durability compared to paper. They also prevent accidental disposal or degradation over time.

3. After entering the phrase on the new device, ensure no traces remain in clipboard history or temporary files. Some mobile operating systems retain copied text; manually clear these buffers after use to minimize risks.

4. Test the restoration process by temporarily closing the app and reopening it to confirm persistent access. If issues arise, repeat the import procedure before discarding or resetting the old device.

5. Once confirmed functional on the new device, securely destroy any temporary notes used during transfer. Shred written copies immediately after verifying successful migration.

Syncing Browser Extensions Across Devices

1. For desktop users relying on the MetaMask browser extension, install the extension on the new computer through Chrome, Firefox, or Brave’s add-on store. Use the same recovery phrase method to restore access rather than creating a new wallet.

2. Bookmark decentralized applications (dApps) previously connected to your wallet. Reconnecting may require re-approving permissions, so keep track of frequently used platforms like Uniswap, OpenSea, or Aave.

3. Clear cached session data on the old machine if it will be sold, donated, or recycled. Residual login information could expose sensitive details even after uninstalling the extension.

4. Enable network customizations such as RPC endpoints and testnet visibility on the new setup. These settings are not automatically transferred and must be manually configured based on prior preferences.

5. Monitor gas fees and transaction confirmations closely during initial usage. Slight delays or failed transactions might occur due to synchronization lags with blockchain nodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my MetaMask password to restore my wallet? No. The password only unlocks the local instance of MetaMask and does not grant access to your funds. Restoration requires the Secret Recovery Phrase.

What happens if I lose my recovery phrase during device transfer? Without the phrase, you cannot recover your wallet. There is no customer support team or central authority to retrieve lost keys. Access to funds is permanently lost.

Is it safe to scan a QR code of my recovery phrase? Scanning or photographing the phrase introduces digital vulnerabilities. Malware can extract images from storage, making physical transcription the safer approach.

Do hardware wallets integrate with MetaMask during transfers? Yes. You can connect devices like Ledger or Trezor to MetaMask after restoring them independently. The recovery phrase remains confined to the hardware unit, enhancing security.