The Tool Desk
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The important distinction is custody: MetaMask does not hold your funds for you. You control the wallet’s Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP) and private keys. If someone obtains the SRP, they can generally control the assets in the wallet. If you lose it, MetaMask cannot recover it for a conventional SRP-based wallet.
What is MetaMask?
MetaMask is software that manages crypto accounts and lets those accounts interact with blockchains. You can use it to:
- Hold supported cryptocurrencies and tokens
- Send crypto to another wallet or exchange
- Receive crypto using a public wallet address
- Switch between supported blockchain networks
- Swap one token for another
- Buy crypto through third-party payment providers
- Connect to dapps such as decentralized exchanges and Web3 services
It began primarily as an Ethereum wallet, but that description is now too narrow. MetaMask’s current documentation covers Ethereum and other EVM networks, as well as supported ecosystems including Bitcoin, Solana and Tron. Availability and features vary by network, asset, device and region.
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- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
- Enjoy Bluetooth connectivity, iOS access, and hours of battery use with this mobile-first, secure backup signer. Freedom you can depend on.
- Genuine Check: confirm your signer is authentic during setup with the Ledger Wallet app.
- Protect your signer: keep it in mint condition at all times with a bespoke Pod or Case to avoid scratches and everyday wear and tear.
MetaMask is self-custodial—not a bank or exchange
With a custodial exchange, the company normally controls the private keys while you access your account through a username and password. MetaMask works differently. Your wallet credentials are controlled by you, and MetaMask generally cannot:
- Reset a lost Secret Recovery Phrase
- Reverse a confirmed blockchain transaction
- Recover funds sent to the wrong address
- Restore assets stolen after your SRP or private key was exposed
MetaMask is also not a traditional exchange. When you buy crypto through the app, a third-party provider processes the purchase. MetaMask aggregates available quotes and provides the interface, but it does not itself fulfill the order.
How to download MetaMask safely
- Go directly to the official MetaMask website.
- Select Get MetaMask.
- For a browser wallet, select your browser and then use the official browser store button, such as Add to Chrome.
- For mobile, install the official listing from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Do not install an extension or app from an advertisement, direct-download file, unofficial website or unsolicited message. Fake MetaMask apps and extensions are designed to capture the SRP during setup.
If MetaMask conflicts with another browser wallet
Multiple browser wallets can compete to be the default Web3 provider. In Brave, MetaMask’s documented troubleshooting path is:
Menu → Settings → Web3 → Default Ethereum wallet → None
Restart Brave afterward and try opening MetaMask again.
How to create a MetaMask wallet
- Open the official extension or mobile app.
- Choose the option to create a new wallet.
- Set a strong local password. This password protects the installation on that device; it is not a replacement for the SRP.
- Write down the displayed Secret Recovery Phrase offline.
- Complete MetaMask’s phrase-confirmation step.
The SRP is the master backup for a conventional MetaMask wallet. Store it somewhere offline and protected from fire, water, theft and unauthorized access. Do not save it in a screenshot, cloud document, email, password manager or chat unless you fully understand the security trade-offs.
Rank #2
- All your digital assets in one place. You can manage thousands of crypto including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Tether and more.
- Defend your identity against hackers: secure your online accounts with passwordless, hardware backed, 2FA logins for all your favorite apps and websites.
- Connectivity: USB-C cable connection only. No Bluetooth.Compatible with the Ledger Wallet crypto app, both desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (Android only). Not compatible with iOS.
- Protect your digital assets with the industry's best security: keep your private keys offline in your private signer, battle-tested by the Donjon's white hat hackers, CC EAL 6+ certified Secure Element, constantly updated Ledger OS.
- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
Anyone asking for your SRP, private key or wallet password is attempting to obtain control of the wallet. Legitimate MetaMask support will not ask for these details.
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MetaMask also supports some wallet setups using a connected Google, Apple or Telegram account and a password. MetaMask says the SRP for this type of setup is encrypted and split across five servers, while MetaMask does not have access to the resulting assets. This is different from a conventional wallet created solely from an SRP, so keep track of which recovery method applies to your wallet.
How to restore an existing MetaMask wallet
Browser extension
- Install MetaMask from the official source.
- Select I have an existing wallet.
- Enter each SRP word in its own field.
- Use lowercase words without spaces in the individual fields.
- Create a new local password when prompted.
Mobile app
- Open MetaMask and choose Import using Secret Recovery Phrase.
- Enter all 12 words in the correct order.
- Complete the setup prompts.
Restoring the SRP may not recreate every account from an old installation. MetaMask searches derived accounts in order and can stop when it reaches an account with zero ETH on Ethereum Mainnet. Add missing accounts manually if necessary. Accounts imported with a private key, JSON file, hardware wallet or another SRP also need to be added separately.
Resetting or reinstalling MetaMask does not erase accounts from the blockchain, but it removes local wallet data. You may need to add custom networks and imported accounts again.
How to find and share your MetaMask address
Browser extension
- Select the account you want to use.
- Click the address shown below the account name to copy it.
- For more detail, open the account selector, click the three vertical dots beside the account and choose Account details.
Depending on the account and supported network, the details may include network-specific addresses for assets such as Ethereum, Bitcoin, Solana or Tron. Do not assume that one address format works for every asset or network.
Mobile app
On the wallet homepage, tap the copy icon and select the relevant network address.
Before receiving crypto
- Choose the exact asset and network you are receiving.
- Copy the corresponding address from MetaMask.
- Paste it into the sender’s withdrawal or recipient field.
- Confirm that the sending and receiving networks match.
- After pasting, compare the first and last characters with the address shown in MetaMask.
Sending an asset over the wrong network can make it unavailable or difficult to recover. A token can also arrive on-chain without immediately appearing in MetaMask’s token list; you may need to add the token or wait for it to be detected.
Rank #3
- Simply & securely take control of your digital assets and identity with the all-in-one Ledger Wallet crypto app and Ledger Flex touchscreen signer.
- Digital asset control at your fingertips: manage 15,000+ crypto across multiple chains. Earn rewards. Top up & share with ease. Explore DeFi with confidence. Collect and showcase NFTs. Make informed choices with clarity.
- Connect effortlessly with Ledger Wallet: pair your secure Ledger signer with the all in one Ledger Wallet crypto app to manage thousands of digital assets across multiple devices and accounts with Ledger Sync from a single, secure dashboard.
- Cutting-edge design: monitor the market, compare rates, and Clear Sign transactions on the secure, high resolution, 2.8'' E Ink touchscreen.
- This is what security feels like: Ledger touchscreen signers all come with a private, offline, PIN-protected backup, Ledger Recovery Key, to never lose access to your assets.
Malware can replace a copied wallet address in your clipboard. Comparing only the first and last characters is a useful check, but for a large transfer, verify the full address and consider sending a small test amount first.
How to send crypto from MetaMask
Extension
- Select the account that will send the funds.
- Click Send.
- Paste or enter the recipient address.
- Enter the amount and select the asset if needed.
- Click Next.
- Review the recipient, asset, amount and estimated network fee.
- Click Confirm.
Mobile
- Tap the actions button in the middle of the tab bar.
- Tap Send.
- Paste an address or choose one from the address book.
- Enter the amount and tap Next.
- Review the transaction and fee.
- Tap Send.
MetaMask may warn that an address is new or resembles one used previously. That warning is not a safety guarantee in either direction. Independently verify the complete destination address.
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Most networks require the sender to hold enough of the network’s native asset to pay the transaction fee. The fee asset is not always ETH. Requirements depend on the network and transaction type, although MetaMask documents alternative fee-payment options for some transactions on Ethereum Mainnet, BNB Smart Chain, Arbitrum, Base, Polygon and Linea.
What “Pending” means
A pending transaction has been submitted but has not yet been confirmed. On supported networks, MetaMask may show Speed Up or Cancel. The documented sidebar transaction-detail flow applies to Extension version 13.30 and later on Ethereum, Linea, BNB Smart Chain, Arbitrum, Base and Polygon. Cancellation is not guaranteed once a transaction has progressed through the network.
How to add and switch networks
MetaMask does not combine every blockchain into one balance. The same-looking account can have different assets and transaction histories depending on the selected network. Always check the network before sending, receiving or signing a transaction.
Add a supported network on the extension
- Open the top-right menu.
- Select Networks.
- Scroll to Additional networks.
- Click Add beside the network you want.
Add a supported network on mobile
- Open the network dropdown at the top of the Tokens tab.
- Scroll to Additional networks.
- Tap the + icon.
- Confirm the network.
Add a custom network
On the extension, use Top-right menu → Networks → Add a custom network. On mobile, open the network dropdown in Tokens, select the Custom tab and tap Add a custom network. Enter the network details and save.
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Rank #4
- More than just crypto: confirm your device is authentic with Genuine Check, manage all your logins with Ledger Security Key, detect common scams with Transaction Check and more.
- Industry-defining security: battle-tested by the Donjon's white hat hackers, protected by the Secure Element, and powered by Ledger OS.
- Connect effortlessly with Ledger Wallet: pair your secure Ledger signer with the all in one Ledger Wallet crypto app to manage thousands of digital assets across multiple devices and accounts with Ledger Sync from a single, secure dashboard.
- Playful, user-friendly design: monitor the market, compare rates and Clear Sign all transactions on the secure 2.8'' anti-glare, scratch-resistant touchscreen.
- This is what security feels like: Ledger touchscreen signers all come with a private, offline, PIN-protected backup, Ledger Recovery Key, to never lose access to your assets.
Adding a custom RPC URL to Ethereum, Linea, Base, Arbitrum or BNB Smart Chain can disable MetaMask Smart Transaction features until the default RPC URL is restored.
How to swap tokens in MetaMask
- From the main wallet screen, click or tap Swap.
- Choose the token and network to swap from.
- Choose the token and network to receive.
- Enter the amount.
- Review the quote, output, network fee and slippage.
- Confirm the transaction.
MetaMask Swaps aggregates quotes; it does not supply the liquidity, execute the trade or provide investment advice. MetaMask’s currently documented Swaps fee is 0.875%, in addition to applicable network fees and the exchange rate or slippage shown in the quote.
Gasless swaps are available only under specified conditions. MetaMask currently lists Ethereum Mainnet, BNB Smart Chain, Linea, Arbitrum, Base and Polygon as supported networks; gasless swaps are not available on Solana. The documented minimum versions are Extension 12.6 or later and Mobile 7.43 or later, with Smart Transactions and balance-change estimation enabled. The setting is at Settings → Transactions → Estimate balance changes.
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Common swap errors
| Message | Likely meaning | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Error fetching quote | A route or quote could not be found. | Try again, check the network and consider whether the token has enough liquidity. |
| Trade route isn’t available | Available liquidity may be insufficient. | Try a different amount, token or route. |
| EXPIRY PASSED | The quote expired before execution. | Request a new quote and review it promptly. |
| Swap failed | Price movement, slippage or another transaction condition caused failure. | Review slippage and the quote, but do not increase settings blindly. |
| Swap unavailable | The selected network may not support MetaMask Swaps. | Check the network and available swap routes. |
How to buy crypto through MetaMask
Buying through MetaMask does not make MetaMask your bank or exchange. A third-party provider handles the purchase, and availability depends on your country, payment method, asset and identity-verification requirements.
Mobile
MetaMask’s current buying guide uses Mobile version 7.61 or later:
- Open MetaMask Mobile.
- Tap Buy under the account balance.
- Tap Buy again.
- Select the token and network.
- Enter the purchase amount.
- Select a payment method.
- Select or change the provider if options are available.
- Complete identity verification if required.
- Confirm the order.
Extension and Portfolio
In MetaMask Portfolio, use Move crypto → Buy. In the extension, the Buy/Sell button redirects to MetaMask Portfolio.
Compare the final amount of crypto received rather than looking only at the advertised price. A purchase can include the provider’s processing fee, MetaMask’s fee and network fees. MetaMask’s current buying guide states that MetaMask receives a 1% fee on each purchase transaction, calculated from the requested fiat value.
Best Value
- All your digital assets in one place. You can manage thousands of crypto including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Tether and more.
- Connectivity: USB-C cable connection only. No Bluetooth.Compatible with the Ledger Wallet crypto app, both desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (Android only). Not compatible with iOS.
- Protect your digital assets with the industry's best security: keep your private keys offline in your private signer, battle-tested by the Donjon's white hat hackers, CC EAL 6+ certified Secure Element, constantly updated Ledger OS.
- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
- Choose the colors that match your style: express your personality and your crypto management mood, color code your signers, one for each use (trading, staking, HOLDing...).
How to connect MetaMask to a dapp
- Open the dapp from a domain you have independently verified.
- Click or tap Connect.
- Choose MetaMask.
- Review the accounts and networks requested.
- Use Edit accounts to limit which accounts are shared.
- Review the Permissions tab.
- Click or tap Connect.
A basic connection normally lets a dapp see the selected public address and its public blockchain activity. It does not, by itself, give the dapp permission to transfer your tokens. However, a token approval, signature or confirmed transaction can grant much greater authority. Read each request instead of approving it simply because a site says it is needed to claim a reward.
To manage extension permissions, open Top-right menu → All Permissions. You can review connected dapps, disconnect accounts and change permissions.
MetaMask security rules
- Protect the SRP: Never share it with support staff, a website, a friend or anyone offering to “validate” your wallet.
- Ignore unsolicited support: MetaMask does not ask users to contact random social-media accounts or respond to unexpected direct messages.
- Check the domain: Bookmark legitimate dapps and avoid links in urgent messages, replies and pop-ups.
- Inspect approvals: A request to connect is different from a request to approve token spending or sign a transaction.
- Distrust unexpected tokens: Airdropped tokens, guaranteed yields, “free money” and urgent verification requests are common scam tactics.
- Assume confirmed transactions are final: Blockchain transfers generally cannot be reversed.
- Act quickly after exposure: If your SRP is compromised, create a new wallet and move remaining funds to it. Stop using every account derived from the compromised SRP.
Common MetaMask misconceptions
| Claim | Reality |
|---|---|
| MetaMask only supports Ethereum. | It supports multiple ecosystems and networks, including supported EVM networks, Bitcoin, Solana and Tron. |
| MetaMask can recover a lost seed phrase. | It cannot recover a lost SRP for a conventional SRP wallet. |
| Connecting a dapp lets it take your crypto. | Connection normally exposes selected public information. Approvals, signatures and confirmed transactions are separate risks. |
| MetaMask is an exchange. | It provides wallet functions and aggregates third-party buying and swapping services. |
| Every transaction requires ETH for fees. | Fee requirements depend on the network and transaction. Some alternative fee mechanisms and gasless swaps are supported in specific cases. |
| Adding a network on one device adds it everywhere. | Network settings are device-specific and may need to be recreated. |
FAQ
Is MetaMask safe to use?
MetaMask can be used safely if you download it from an official source, protect the Secret Recovery Phrase, verify addresses and review every approval and transaction. It is self-custodial, so security mistakes can result in permanent loss.
What happens if I lose my MetaMask Secret Recovery Phrase?
For a conventional SRP-based wallet, MetaMask cannot retrieve a lost phrase or reset access. If the local installation is also unavailable, you may permanently lose access to the accounts.
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Can MetaMask hold Bitcoin?
MetaMask’s current documentation supports Bitcoin alongside Ethereum, EVM networks, Solana, Tron and other supported networks. Use the network-specific address displayed for the asset rather than assuming an Ethereum address is appropriate.
Does MetaMask charge fees?
Costs can include blockchain network fees, third-party provider charges and MetaMask fees. MetaMask currently documents a 0.875% Swaps fee and a 1% fee on each crypto purchase, calculated from the requested fiat value; check the final quote before confirming.
The Bottom Line
MetaMask is a self-custodial wallet and Web3 access point, not a bank or conventional exchange. Its convenience comes with responsibility: secure the Secret Recovery Phrase, match the asset to the correct network, verify every address and treat dapp approvals as financial decisions. A confirmed transaction or exposed recovery phrase can lead to losses that MetaMask cannot reverse.
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