Download and Install MetaMask Extension

The MetaMask extension is a browser-based cryptocurrency wallet that supports Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and other EVM-compatible networks. It allows users to interact with decentralized applications (dApps) and Web3 platforms directly from Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Brave browsers.

Chrome: Official installation from the Chrome Web Store.
Firefox: Available via Firefox Add-ons.
Edge & Brave: Compatible with the Chrome Web Store version.

Always verify that you are installing from official sources to avoid phishing and malicious copies.

Official MetaMask Download

Setting Up the MetaMask Extension

Step 1: Add to Browser

Click “Add to Chrome” or your respective browser. Approve permissions and ensure you see the MetaMask icon in your browser toolbar.

Step 2: Create a New Wallet

Select “Create a Wallet,” set a strong password, and follow prompts. This password protects access to the extension locally.

Step 3: Backup Your Secret Recovery Phrase

MetaMask provides a 12-word secret recovery phrase. Write it down carefully, store it offline, and never share it digitally.

Step 4: Confirm Recovery Phrase

Select words in the correct order to confirm your recovery phrase. This ensures it was saved correctly and you can restore the wallet if needed.

MetaMask Extension Features

Wallet Management: Send, receive, and store crypto assets.
DeFi Access: Connect to decentralized exchanges (DEXs), lending platforms, and staking pools.
Web3 Integration: Interact with dApps, NFTs, and blockchain games.
Multiple Networks: Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and custom RPC networks.
Token Swaps: Swap assets directly within the extension at competitive rates.
Custom Tokens: Add ERC-20 or EVM-compatible tokens manually.

Security Features

Private keys stored encrypted locally in the browser extension.
All transactions require user approval before signing.
Optional integration with hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor for enhanced security.
Phishing detection warns users against suspicious sites.
Automatic lock after inactivity or browser close.

MetaMask ensures private keys remain secure while allowing access to Web3 services.

Wallet Recovery

If your computer is lost, reinstalled, or your browser data is cleared, you can recover your wallet using the secret recovery phrase:

Install MetaMask extension on the new browser.
Select “Import Wallet.”
Enter the 12-word secret recovery phrase in the correct order.
Create a new password for this device.
Access all previously held crypto assets securely.

Never share your recovery phrase digitally. MetaMask support will never request it.

Best Practices

Download MetaMask only from official sources.
Keep the recovery phrase offline and secure.
Use hardware wallets for large amounts of crypto.
Verify dApp connections and avoid suspicious websites.
Enable phishing detection and notifications.
Regularly update the extension for security patches.

Conclusion

MetaMask Extension is a powerful gateway to Web3 and decentralized finance. By following installation steps and security practices, users can manage crypto assets safely while interacting with dApps, DeFi, and NFT platforms directly in their browsers.

Combining MetaMask with hardware wallets and careful storage of recovery phrases maximizes security, ensuring users remain in full control of their digital assets.

Official MetaMask Extension — Desktop & Web App for Hardware …

james

16 Feb 2026

MetaMask Extension