Learn how to securely access your MetaMask wallet and protect your cryptocurrency assets across browsers and mobile devices.
MetaMask is a software cryptocurrency wallet that uses password protection and secret recovery phrases to secure your assets. Unlike hardware wallets, MetaMask stores your encrypted keys locally in your browser or mobile device.
MetaMask stores your encrypted keys locally on your device. Your password protects access to the wallet, but your secret recovery phrase is the master key to restore your entire wallet. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone.
Locate MetaMask in browser or phone
Type your wallet password
Full wallet access unlocked
Automatically locks after period
Standard login with your wallet password. Used for daily access to your MetaMask wallet in browser extension or mobile app.
Available on mobile apps using Face ID, Touch ID, or fingerprint recognition for quick and secure access.
Restore access to your wallet on a new device using your 12-word secret recovery phrase (seed phrase).
Find the MetaMask extension in your browser toolbar (fox icon) or open the MetaMask mobile app on your phone.
Click the MetaMask icon in your browser or tap the app icon on mobile. The wallet will open showing the login screen.
Type your wallet password in the password field. Make sure you're entering the correct password for this specific wallet.
Click "Unlock" or use biometric authentication if enabled. Your wallet dashboard will load with your account balance and recent transactions.
Check that you're connected to the correct network (Ethereum Mainnet by default) and that your account balance appears correct.
Primary Use: Desktop browsing and dApp interaction
Login: Password only
Security: Browser-level encryption
Auto-lock: After browser restart or manually
Backup: Manual secret phrase storage
Primary Use: On-the-go access and mobile dApps
Login: Password + Biometric options
Security: Device-level encryption
Auto-lock: Configurable time periods
Backup: iCloud/Google Drive options (encrypted)
✅ Fully Supported
Best performance
All features available
✅ Fully Supported
Excellent compatibility
All features available
✅ Fully Supported
Native crypto features
Excellent integration
✅ Supported
Good performance
All major features
Use a unique, complex password that you don't use for any other service. Include uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters. Avoid personal information or common phrases.
Your 12-word seed phrase is your master key. Write it down on paper and store it in multiple secure locations. Never store it digitally or share it with anyone. This phrase can restore your entire wallet.
Always verify website URLs before connecting your wallet. Use bookmarklets for frequently visited dApps. Never enter your seed phrase on any website - MetaMask will never ask for it.
Keep MetaMask updated to the latest version. Updates include security patches and new features. Enable auto-updates in your browser or app store settings.
Always verify transaction details before confirming. Check recipient addresses, amounts, and gas fees. Be cautious of unexpected transaction requests.
Use MetaMask on trusted devices with updated antivirus software. Avoid public computers. Use VPN on untrusted networks. Enable browser security features.
Solution: You can reset your password using your secret recovery phrase. Click "Forgot Password" and enter your 12-word phrase to create a new password. This will not affect your funds or transaction history.
Solution: Refresh the browser page, restart your browser, or reinstall the extension. Ensure you're using a supported browser version. Check if other extensions are causing conflicts.
Solution: Refresh the dApp website, ensure MetaMask is unlocked, and check that you're on a supported network. Some websites require you to manually connect your wallet.
Solution: Update the app through your app store, clear app cache, or reinstall the app (make sure you have your recovery phrase first). Check device compatibility and storage space.
Solution: Check your internet connection, try switching networks, or restart your router. Some networks may block cryptocurrency-related services.
Solution: Try switching networks and back, or manually add the network again. Check MetaMask status page for any ongoing issues with specific networks.
MetaMask will never ask for your secret recovery phrase. Never enter your 12-word phrase on any website, even if it looks like MetaMask. Only enter your recovery phrase in the official MetaMask extension or mobile app during wallet setup or recovery. Beware of phishing sites, fake support agents, and fraudulent applications.