In this guide, you will learn how to create a MetaMask wallet from scratch, and we will also explain how to add other blockchains.
If you’re looking to jump into the world of decentralized finance (DeFi), mint your first NFT or just store and transfer Ethereum-based ERC20 tokens, you will first need a compatible wallet. One of the most popular wallets, with over 21 million active users, is MetaMask.
MetaMask is a free web3 hot wallet that can be used as a gateway to access popular DApps and Web 3 services. Although MetaMask was created as an Ethereum wallet, it does also allow integration with other blockchains such as Avalance and Polygon. So, how do you create a MetaMask account?
What is MetaMask?
MetaMask is a free, self-custodial software crypto wallet designed for the Ethereum blockchain. Used to interact with decentralized Ethereum applications, which are also known as “DApps.” In March 2022, Metamask reported it reached over 30 million active users.
It was developed by ConsenSys Inc. in 2016, and in its first form, it was available as a browser
extension. Anyone with a Chrome or Firefox browser could use it to access the Ethereum blockchain.
It was later introduced for Brave and Edge browsers as well. In 2020, the company released the first
mobile app version of MetaMask. From that point, it was also available to Android and iOS users.
Initially, Metamask was created as an Ethereum-based wallet. However, more recently, the wallet has become popular with Ethereum Layer-2s like Arbitrum, Optimism and alternative networks such as Binance Smart Chain.
How to Create a MetaMask Account?
This guide will explain how to create a MetaMask wallet using a Chrome browser. However, the process is similar if you’re using Brave and Firefox browsers.
- Add MetaMask to Your Browser
- PIN MetaMask Extension to Your Browser
- Create a MetaMask Account
- MetaMask Usage Data
- Create a Secure Password
- Store Your Secret Recovery Phrase
- Confirm Secret Recovery Phrase
- MetaMask Account Created
Once you have created your MetaMask, you can also connect a hardware wallet such as Ledger or Trezor.
Step 1. Add MetaMask to Your Browser
Navigate to MetaMask.io and choose “Download“. You will then need to choose your operating system, as you can see in the example below (Chrome, iOS and Android). Then click “Install MetaMask for Chrome” at the bottom of the screen.
Step 2. PIN MetaMask Extension to Your Browser
If you have chosen to install MetaMask for your browser, we’d recommend pinning the MetaMask extension to your browser. This will make things a lot easier and ensure you’re using the correct application.
Tip: If you’re using Chrome, you will see a “Puzzle icon” in the top right. Click the “Puzzle icon” and then choose “Pin” beside MetaMask.
Step 3. Create a MetaMask Account
Once MetaMask has been added to your browser, you can choose “Get Started“.
Step 4. Create a MetaMask Wallet
You will be given two options, “Import Wallet” or “Create a Wallet“. As this is the first time you’re creating a MetaMask wallet, you will need to select “Create a Wallet“.
Step 5. MetaMask Usage Data
MetaMask will request that you allow them to gather usage data to improve usability and user experience. This is optional, and you will need to decide to choose “I Agree” or decline by choosing “No Thanks“.
Step 6. Create a Secure Password
You will be prompted to enter a “New Password” with a minimum of 8 charters, then “Confirm password“, tick the box to agree to the Terms of Use and select “Create“.
Tip: It’s important to choose a secure password to protect your information and assets; one way you can do this is with a password manager such as LastPass.
Step 7. Store Your Secret Recovery Phrase
This step is very important as losing your secret recovery phrase may lose access to your MetaMask wallet. Please make sure you write down and safely secure your secret recovery phrase. Once written down, you can go to “Next“.
Step 8. Confirm Secret Recovery Phrase
You will need to confirm your Secret Recovery Phrase in order to ensure that you have written the phrase down correctly. Select the words at the bottom of the input field in the order they were in the previous step.
Step 9. MetaMask Account Created
Once you have confirmed your Secret Recovery Phrase successfully, your MetaMask account will be set up for you.
How to Add Custom Networks to MetaMask?
MetaMask was initially created as an Ethereum wallet. However, other layers 2 chains have been added to the wallet.
To add the likes of Binance Smart Chain, or the Avalanche network, follow the below steps;
- Open MetaMask
- Click where it currently states “Ethereum Mainnet“.
- Choose “Add Network“
- You will then need to complete the following for the network;
- Network Name
- New PRC URL
- Chain ID
- Currency Symbol (Optional)
- Block Explorer URL (Optional)
- Once you have added the network information correctly, choose “Save“.
The network will then be added to the list of networks available.
- How to Connect Binance Smart Chain to MetaMask
- How to Connect Polygon (MATIC) to MetaMask
- How to Connect Avalanche to MetaMask
- How to Connect Arbitrum to MetaMask
- How to Connect Optimism to MetaMask
FAQS
Your MetaMask Secret Recovery Phrase is a list of 12 words that is essentially the “master key” to your wallet and your crypto. Only you have access to these words, and MetaMask is unable to recover these.
You will need your Recovery Phrase for actions such as restoring your account. It’s important to keep your secret recovery phrase somewhere safe and away from any potential harm, as anyone with access to these words will have complete control over your wallet.Tip: In the future, if you need to back up your MetaMask Secret Recovery Phrase, you can find it under “Settings” and then “Security“.
It’s very important that you never share your Secret Recovery Phrase with anyone. Not even MetaMask. Anyone asking for your recovery phrase is likely trying to scam you and steal your crypto.
If you’re not too sure where to save your secret recovery phrase, here are some suggestions;
– Using a Password manager such as LastPass
– A Bank Vault Safety Deposit Box or a Safe
– Write them down and store the words in multiple secret places
Conclusion
If you’re buying cryptocurrency or NFTs and want a crypto wallet that connects to multiple networks, MetaMask is well worth having. Personally, we use MetaMask in conjunction with a Leger Hardware wallet for extra security.
