1 — Install the MetaMask Extension (fast)

Installing MetaMask Extension is the first step to accessing Web3. Use official stores only — Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, or the official MetaMask website. Never install from third-party mirror sites.

Step 1

Open official source

Visit metamask.io and click the official link for your browser. Confirm the store publisher is "MetaMask".

Step 2

Add extension

Choose "Add to Chrome/Firefox/Edge". Grant minimal permissions — MetaMask needs to run on the active tab only.

Step 3

Create wallet

Create a new wallet or restore using a seed phrase. Write the seed down on paper — never store it in plain text online.

2 — Secure your MetaMask Extension (non-negotiable)

Security is the single most important part of using the MetaMask Extension. Your seed phrase equals ownership — protect it like a vault key.

Practical Security Checklist

  • Seed safety: Paper backup or metal backup; multiple physical copies in separate locations.
  • 2FA for connected services: Use TOTP for exchanges, but note MetaMask itself uses seed/PIN — combine with hardware wallets for ultimate safety.
  • Hardware wallet: Pair Ledger/Trezor with MetaMask Extension for large balances — approvals occur on-device.
  • Phishing resistance: Keep a custom bookmark for dApps you trust; verify domains before connecting.

3 — Connect MetaMask Extension to dApps & Networks

The MetaMask Extension can connect to many networks (Ethereum Mainnet, Polygon, BSC, custom RPC). Always double-check the RPC and contract addresses when switching networks or adding tokens.

Adding a Custom RPC

Open MetaMask → Network dropdown → Add Network. Provide chain name, RPC URL, chain id, currency symbol, and block explorer URL (optional).

Example: Polygon RPC
RPC: https://polygon-rpc.com
Chain ID: 137

Connect to a dApp

On the dApp, click "Connect Wallet" → choose MetaMask. MetaMask will prompt a connection request — review accounts and permissions before approving.

4 — Advanced: approvals, gas & recovery

Advanced users should master token approvals and gas management. A dangerous but common pattern is unlimited token approvals — replace with limited approvals or revoke when not needed.

Approval Audit

Revoke unlimited approvals

Use token-approval tools to view and revoke allowances. This reduces the risk of a malicious contract draining funds after a vulnerability.

Gas Optimization

Manage gas safely

MetaMask shows gas suggestions. For time-sensitive trades use higher gas; for simple transfers, choose lower gas and wait. Beware frontrunning in volatile markets.

Seed Recovery

Test recovery flow

Before storing large funds, verify your seed by restoring on a spare device (or using a hardware wallet restore) to ensure backups are correct.

5 — Troubleshooting MetaMask Extension issues

Common issues: extension not detected, network not found, transaction stuck, or connection refused. Follow this practical triage path below.

Fast Fixes

  1. Restart browser & ensure extension enabled
  2. Clear extension site data (MetaMask settings → Advanced → Reset Account)
  3. Check if the site is blocked by browser privacy settings or ad blockers
  4. Update MetaMask to the latest extension version
  5. If transactions stuck: use Etherscan to speed up/cancel via nonce replace (advanced)

6 — Helpful resources & best practices

Keep a shortlist of trusted resources and tools for safer MetaMask usage.

Official

  • MetaMask website — metamask.io
  • MetaMask support & documentation
  • MetaMask extension pages in official browser stores

Tools

  • Allowance & approval scanners (revoke tools)
  • Block explorers (Etherscan, Polygonscan)
  • Hardware wallets: Ledger, Trezor (use with MetaMask)