MetaMask Setup Guide: From Install to First Transaction
Complete MetaMask setup guide for 2026. Learn how to install MetaMask, create a wallet, secure your seed phrase, add networks, and make your first
MetaMask Setup Guide: From Install to First Transaction
Your gateway to the world of decentralized finance starts here
MetaMask is the most widely used cryptocurrency wallet in the world, serving as your gateway to Ethereum, DeFi applications, NFT marketplaces, and thousands of decentralized apps. If you are new to crypto, setting up MetaMask is one of the first and most important steps you will take.
This guide covers everything from installing the MetaMask browser extension to making your first on-chain transaction. By the end, you will have a fully functional wallet ready to interact with the decentralized web, complete with proper security practices to keep your funds safe.
What You'll Need
- A desktop computer with Chrome, Firefox, Brave, or Edge browser
- A pen and paper for writing down your seed phrase (never store it digitally)
- A small amount of ETH to fund your first transaction
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1
Install the MetaMask Browser Extension
Go to metamask.io and click the Download button. You will be directed to your browser official extension store. Always verify you are downloading from the official MetaMask source to avoid phishing extensions that can steal your funds.
Click Add to Browser and confirm the installation. MetaMask will appear as a small fox icon in your browser toolbar. Pin it to your toolbar for easy access by clicking the extensions puzzle icon and selecting the pin next to MetaMask.
Step 2
Create a New Wallet
Open MetaMask and click Create a New Wallet. You will be asked to agree to the terms of use and create a strong password. This password is used to unlock MetaMask on your local device only and is not the same as your seed phrase.
Choose a password that is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Store this password in a trusted password manager. You will need it every time you open MetaMask on this device.
Step 3
Back Up Your Secret Recovery Phrase
MetaMask will display a 12-word secret recovery phrase also known as a seed phrase. This is the master key to your wallet. Write it down on physical paper in the exact order shown and store it in a secure location like a safe or lockbox.
Never share your seed phrase with anyone, never type it into a website, and never store it in a screenshot, text file, or cloud storage. Anyone who has these 12 words can access and drain your entire wallet from any device in the world.
Step 4
Verify Your Seed Phrase
MetaMask will ask you to confirm your seed phrase by selecting the words in the correct order. This verification step ensures you have properly recorded your recovery phrase before proceeding. Take your time and double-check each word.
Once verified, your wallet is created and ready to use. You will see your account with a zero ETH balance and a public address starting with 0x. This address is safe to share with others for receiving funds.
Step 5
Add Additional Networks
MetaMask connects to Ethereum mainnet by default, but you can add other EVM-compatible networks like Arbitrum, Polygon, Optimism, and Base. Click the network selector at the top of the MetaMask window and then click Add Network.
For popular networks, MetaMask offers one-click additions. For others, you can use Chainlist.org to automatically add network configurations. Always verify the chain ID and RPC URL match the official documentation of the network you are adding to avoid connecting to malicious nodes.
Step 6
Fund Your Wallet
To send your first transaction, you need ETH or the native token of whatever network you plan to use. Copy your wallet address by clicking on it at the top of MetaMask, then use a centralized exchange like Coinbase or Kraken to withdraw funds to that address.
Make sure you select the correct network when withdrawing. Sending ETH via the Arbitrum network will not appear if your MetaMask is set to Ethereum mainnet, and vice versa. Always do a small test transfer first to confirm everything works before sending larger amounts.
Step 7
Send Your First Transaction
Click the Send button in MetaMask, paste the destination address, enter the amount, and review the gas fee estimate. MetaMask will show you the total cost including the network fee. Verify all the details carefully before clicking Confirm.
Your transaction will be broadcast to the network and you can track it by clicking the transaction in your Activity tab. It will show as pending until it is confirmed on the blockchain, which usually takes between 15 seconds and a few minutes on Ethereum mainnet.
Tips & Best Practices
- Create a separate MetaMask wallet for testing and exploration so your main funds stay isolated from risky interactions.
- Enable browser notifications in MetaMask settings so you are alerted when transactions confirm or when a dApp requests a signature.
- Regularly review and revoke token approvals using tools like Revoke.cash to limit your exposure to compromised smart contracts.
- Consider connecting MetaMask to a hardware wallet like Ledger for an extra layer of security on accounts holding significant funds.
- Bookmark the official websites of dApps you use frequently to avoid landing on phishing sites through search engine ads.
Important: Your secret recovery phrase is the single most important piece of information in your wallet setup. If you lose it and your device fails, your funds are gone forever. If someone else obtains it, they can steal everything. Never enter your seed phrase on any website or share it with anyone claiming to be support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MetaMask safe to use?
MetaMask is a well-audited and widely trusted wallet used by millions of people. However, as a hot wallet connected to the internet, it is less secure than a hardware wallet. For large holdings, consider pairing MetaMask with a Ledger device for added security.
Can I use MetaMask on my phone?
Yes, MetaMask has a mobile app available for both iOS and Android. You can create a new wallet on mobile or import your existing wallet using your 12-word recovery phrase. The mobile app includes a built-in browser for accessing dApps directly.
What should I do if I lose my seed phrase?
If you still have access to your MetaMask wallet, go to Settings, then Security and Privacy, and click Reveal Secret Recovery Phrase. If you have lost both your seed phrase and access to your device, there is unfortunately no way to recover the wallet.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk. Always do your own research and never invest more than you can afford to lose. This article may contain affiliate links.
