Getting started with MetaMask | MetaMask Help Center

The user asked for information on "Getting started with MetaMask" from the "MetaMask Help Center". The search results provide a very relevant and comprehensive article from support.metamask.io titled "Getting started with MetaMask" (Source 1.1). This article directly addresses the user's query and provides detailed steps on how to install and set up MetaMask, covering both browser extensions and mobile apps.

I have sufficient information to answer the user's request.Here's information on how to get started with MetaMask, based on the official MetaMask Help Center:

MetaMask serves as your secure gateway to the decentralized web, acting as both a cryptocurrency wallet and a browser extension (or mobile app) that allows you to manage your Ethereum and Solana private keys and interact with decentralized applications (dApps). It's completely free and available in multiple languages.

How to Get Started with MetaMask:

1. Install MetaMask:
   • For Browser Extension: Visit the official MetaMask website and click "Download". Select your browser (Firefox, Chrome, Edge, Brave) and follow the prompts to add the extension. You'll be redirected to your browser's respective web store (e.g., Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons). Click "Add to [Browser]" and then "Add extension" in the pop-up.
   • For Mobile App: Open your device's app store (App Store for iOS or Play Store for Android). Search for "MetaMask" and ensure you download the official app (look for the one with 10M+ downloads on Android). Tap "Install" and open the app once installed.
2. Set Up Your Wallet:
   • After installation, MetaMask will automatically open or you can click on its icon in your browser toolbar or mobile screen.
   • Click "Get Started" on the welcome page.
   • You'll be prompted to either "Create a Wallet" (for new users) or "Import an existing wallet" (if you have a Secret Recovery Phrase from a previous wallet).
   • If creating a new wallet:
     • You'll be asked if you want to submit anonymized data to help improve the app (this is optional).
     • Create a strong password. This password will be used to unlock your wallet after inactive sessions.
     • Crucially, write down your 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase (also known as a seed phrase). This phrase is your master key and the ultimate backup for all your funds. It will be displayed once on the screen. Store it securely offline, preferably in multiple physical locations, and never share it with anyone. MetaMask will ask you to confirm the phrase by re-entering the words in the correct order to ensure you've saved it.
   • If importing an existing wallet: Enter your Secret Recovery Phrase and set a new password.
3. Fund Your Wallet:
   • Once your wallet is set up, you'll see a prompt to fund it. Adding some tokens (like ETH for the Ethereum network) allows you to engage with Web3.
4. Connect and Add Accounts:
   • By default, MetaMask connects to the Ethereum Mainnet. You can add accounts for other cryptocurrencies or connect to different blockchain networks (e.g., Polygon, Binance Smart Chain) through the "Add Network" option in the network dropdown.
   • When interacting with a dApp, MetaMask will prompt you to connect your wallet. You'll need to approve this connection.

Important Security & Privacy Tips:

• Secret Recovery Phrase: Never share it with anyone. Store it offline and securely.
• Transaction Confirmation: Always verify transaction details on your MetaMask pop-up before confirming, especially the recipient address and amount.
• Phishing Detection: MetaMask includes built-in phishing detection features.
• Hardware Wallets: For enhanced security, consider connecting a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor to your MetaMask. This requires physical confirmation of transactions, keeping your private keys offline.
• Permissions: Be mindful of the permissions you grant to websites when connecting your wallet.

For more detailed information, you can visit the official MetaMask Help Center:

• Getting started with MetaMask
• MetaMask Help Center