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A wallet in your browser
View supported assets, review activity, and manage wallet accounts from a browser extension—without handing your keys to a hosted exchange.
A safer way to explore THE INDEPENDENT GUIDE TO A MORE OPEN WEB UPDATED FOR 2026
YOUR WEB3 STARTING POINT
Your gateway to
Web3, explained.
Curious about the MetaMask browser extension? Get to know the wallet, understand how dapp connections work, and learn the small safety habits that matter.
Security first. Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase.
THE SELF-CUSTODY EDITION
01 — A NEW WAY TO CONNECTTHE WEB3 FIELD GUIDE
MADE FOR THE CURIOUS✳SELF-CUSTODY BASICS✳NO HYPE, JUST CLARITY✳START SAFELY
FIRST, THE FUNDAMENTALS
A wallet is your
key to the internet.
MetaMask is a self-custody wallet and browser extension. It gives you a way to manage supported crypto assets and connect to apps built on compatible blockchain networks.
Think of it as the connection layer between your browser and the decentralized web. You stay in control of your wallet keys—and responsible for keeping them safe.
THE SHORT VERSION / 01.01Self-custody
Your wallet credentials are yours to protect. No support team can safely ask you for your Secret Recovery Phrase.
App connections
Wallet connections let compatible dapps request limited access or ask you to review a transaction.
Your approval matters
Take a moment to check the website, permissions, network, and transaction details before you confirm.
ONE EXTENSION, MANY USES
Explore at
your own pace.
The extension is designed to make Web3 tools accessible from your browser. Here’s what people use a wallet for—and what to keep in mind along the way.
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A connection to Web3
Connect to compatible decentralized applications when you choose. Review the site, permissions, and requested network before approving access.
A safer way to explore03 / 03
Tools across networks
Explore supported blockchain networks and dapps from one familiar wallet. Availability and compatibility depend on each network and application.
A safer way to explore✳
Wallets do not make every app trustworthy. Always evaluate an app independently, and remember that blockchain transactions may be irreversible.
THE CONNECTION, IN THREE MOVES02—04
YOUR WALLET
BROWSER
DAPP
You are always the one
who approves the connection.
THE BASICS, WITHOUT THE JARGON
How a wallet
connection works.
A dapp doesn’t simply take control when you visit. A connection is an invitation to communicate—and you decide what to approve.
- 01
Open the real website
Check the domain carefully. Scam pages often imitate familiar dapps and wallet support pages.
- 02
Choose to connect
A compatible dapp asks your wallet to connect. Read the prompt and confirm you recognize the app.
- 03
Review every request
Connecting is different from signing or sending. Review each new request and reject anything unexpected.
YOUR KEYS, YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
A few good habits.
A lot more peace of mind.
There is no undo button for many onchain actions. Make safe habits part of every session—not just your first one.
Keep your recovery phrase private
Never share it, paste it into a website, or send it to “support.” Store it offline in a secure place you control.
Use official sources
Get the extension through MetaMask’s official website. Verify the URL, avoid sponsored look-alike ads, and check the publisher.
Pause before you sign
Understand the action, network, destination, and any permissions before approving. If the request feels unclear, cancel.
Protect your browsing session
Bookmark sites you trust, use strong device security, and regularly review connected apps and wallet permissions.
✳
A quick reality check
No legitimate helper needs your Secret Recovery Phrase. Anyone who asks for it is not helping you recover your wallet.
THE QUESTIONS THAT COME UP
Still curious?
Start here.
Clear answers to common questions about MetaMask, browser wallets, and getting started thoughtfully.
Official MetaMask website01What is the MetaMask browser extension?
MetaMask is a self-custody crypto wallet that runs as a browser extension. It helps you manage supported digital assets and connect your wallet to compatible decentralized applications. This guide is independent and is not the wallet itself.
02Is MetaMask available for Chrome?
MetaMask offers a browser extension for Chrome and other supported browsers. Check the official MetaMask download page for current browser availability, system requirements, and installation instructions. Always verify that you are on the genuine official site before downloading.
03Does MetaMask hold or recover my recovery phrase?
With a self-custody wallet, you are responsible for protecting your Secret Recovery Phrase. Never share it with anyone, enter it on a website sent to you, or store an unprotected copy online. Anyone who obtains it may gain control of the wallet.
04Can I use MetaMask with every blockchain app?
A decentralized application must support the wallet and network you are using. Compatibility varies by app and chain, so confirm network details and transaction information before connecting or approving anything.
05Are transactions or swaps free?
No. Blockchain transactions can involve network fees, and some services may charge additional fees. Costs and processing times vary with the network and activity. Review the full transaction details in your wallet before you approve.
START WITH CONFIDENCECuriosity is a
YOUR JOURNEY, YOUR CALL
Curiosity is a
good first step.
Explore official resources, take your time, and only connect when you understand what you’re approving.
Find MetaMask’s official downloadA LITTLE KNOWLEDGE
GOES A LONG WAY.W3—06
GOES A LONG WAY.W3—06