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| how_to_download_metamask_extension_safe_installation_guide [2026/02/18 02:45] – created bertpasco25 | how_to_download_metamask_extension_safe_installation_guide [2026/02/18 02:45] (current) – created hamishdallachy |
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| Install MetaMask on Chrome Edge and Kiwi A Browser Extension Guide | Install MetaMask Wallet on Chrome Edge and Kiwi Browser Step-by-Step Guide |
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| Get the MetaMask extension directly from the Chrome Web Store, whether you use Chrome, Edge, or Kiwi Browser. This official source guarantees a clean, malware-free installation. Click the "Add to Chrome" button and confirm the prompt; the setup wizard will launch automatically. | Get the official MetaMask extension directly from the Chrome Web Store, regardless of your browser choice. This single source is the safest and most reliable method for Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Kiwi Browser. Visiting the store page yourself prevents the risk of counterfeit extensions. |
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| Your next step is securing the wallet. The wizard asks you to create a new wallet or import an existing one. For a new wallet, write down the 12-word secret recovery phrase on paper. Store it physically, away from digital cameras or cloud storage. This phrase is the only way to restore your assets if you switch devices. | Once on the store page, click the blue "Add to Chrome" button. In Edge or Kiwi, this will trigger your browser's built-in mechanism to install the extension. Confirm any prompts that appear; the browsers handle the technical process seamlessly in the background. |
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| After confirming your recovery phrase, you'll set a personal password. This password protects the extension on this specific browser. Remember, it does not replace your secret phrase. The installation is now complete, and you can find the MetaMask fox icon in your browser's toolbar. | After installation, a new tab opens welcoming you to MetaMask. You will face a clear choice: create a new wallet if this is your first time, or import an existing one using your secret recovery phrase. Carefully follow the on-screen instructions to set a strong password and, without exception, securely back up your 12-word phrase offline. |
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| On Kiwi Browser, you gain a unique advantage: you can install mobile-first dApps directly. The process is identical to Chrome, but Kiwi's support for Chrome extensions on Android makes it a powerful choice for on-the-go access to Web3. Simply open Kiwi, visit the Chrome Web Store, and follow the same secure setup steps. | Your browser's toolbar now holds the MetaMask fox icon. Click it to unlock your wallet with your password. You are ready to explore web applications, manage digital assets, and control your online identity. This extension works identically across all three browsers, providing a consistent gateway to decentralized networks. |
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| Locating the Official MetaMask Extension Page | Download the Correct Extension for Your Browser |
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| Navigate directly to the official browser store for your specific browser. This is the only method that guarantees you get the authentic MetaMask extension, protecting you from fraudulent copies. | Get the MetaMask extension directly from the official Chrome Web Store for Chrome, Edge, and Kiwi browsers. This single source ensures you receive the authentic and secure software. Visit chrome.google.com/webstore and search for "MetaMask". |
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| Use these exact, verified links for each supported browser. Bookmarking them saves time for future reference. | Click the "Add to Chrome" button on the extension's store page. Both Microsoft Edge and Kiwi Browser are built on Chromium, so they fully support installations from the Chrome store. The browser will ask for your confirmation; proceed by clicking "Add extension". |
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| | After installation, look for the MetaMask fox icon to appear in your browser's toolbar extension menu. A new tab will open automatically, guiding you through the setup process. If the icon is hidden, click the puzzle piece icon in Chrome or Edge to pin MetaMask for easy access. |
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| Browser | |
| Official Store Link | |
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| | Never install MetaMask from other websites or third-party stores, as these could be malicious. The official Chrome Web Store version receives automatic updates, providing you with the latest security fixes and features without any extra steps. |
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| Google Chrome | Pin MetaMask to Your Browser's Toolbar |
| [[https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/metamask/nkbihfbeogaeaoehlefnkodbefgpgknn|Chrome Web Store]] | |
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| | Immediately after installing the MetaMask extension, locate its icon–a geometric fox face–in your browser's extensions menu. This menu is typically found in the top-right corner of Chrome, Edge, or Kiwi, represented by a puzzle piece or similar icon. |
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| Microsoft Edge | |
| [[https://microsoftedge.microsoft.com/addons/detail/metamask/ejbalbakoplchlghecdalmeeeajnimhm|Edge Add-ons Store]] | |
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| | Click the extensions menu button to view all your installed add-ons. Find the MetaMask entry and look for a small pin icon next to it. Clicking this pin will change its appearance, often becoming filled with color or showing as pushed in. |
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| Kiwi Browser | |
| Uses the [[https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/metamask/nkbihfbeogaeaoehlefnkodbefgpgknn|Chrome Web Store]] | |
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| | Once pinned, the blue and white fox icon will appear directly on your browser's toolbar. This gives you one-click access to your wallet, eliminating the need to open the extensions menu every time. You can now check your balance, send transactions, or connect to websites much faster. |
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| If you prefer searching within the store, type "MetaMask" into the search bar. Confirm the developer is listed as "Consensys" and check the number of users–it should be in the millions. Avoid any listing with a significantly lower user count or a different developer name. | If the icon ever disappears from the toolbar, your browser may have updated or the pin was accidentally removed. Simply revisit the extensions menu and pin MetaMask again to restore instant access. Keeping it pinned ensures you never miss important network notifications or transaction requests from decentralized applications. |
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| | Create a New Wallet and Secret Recovery Phrase |
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| You will know you are on the correct page when you see the familiar fox logo and the blue "Add to Chrome" or "Get" button. Clicking this button begins the safe installation process. | Click 'Create a Wallet' on the MetaMask welcome screen. The extension will ask if you want to share anonymous usage data; your choice here does not affect functionality. |
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| Adding MetaMask to Chrome or Microsoft Edge | |
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| Navigate directly to the official Chrome Web Store. Search for "MetaMask" and ensure you select the extension developed by "Consensys." | Next, establish a strong password. This password protects MetaMask on this specific browser and device. You will need it each time you open the extension locally. |
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| Click the blue "Add to Chrome" button on the store page. A confirmation dialog will appear, detailing the permissions the extension requires. Review these and click "Add extension" to proceed with the installation. | Now, you will see your Secret Recovery Phrase. This 12-word phrase is the master key to your entire wallet and all funds within it. MetaMask will display the words one by one. |
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| A new tab will open, welcoming you to MetaMask. Click "Get Started." You will then choose between creating a new wallet or importing an existing one using a Secret Recovery Phrase. | Write each word down in the exact order shown on a piece of paper. Do not save it on your computer or take a screenshot. This physical copy is your primary backup. |
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| If you are setting up a new wallet, you will be shown your unique 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase. Write these words down in the exact order on paper and store them securely. This phrase is the only way to restore your wallet if you lose access. | Confirm you have written it down correctly by selecting the words in the correct sequence on the next screen. This step ensures your backup is accurate. |
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| After confirming your Secret Recovery Phrase, create a strong password for your MetaMask vault. This password protects the extension on this specific browser. | After verification, your new wallet is active. Access your public receiving address by clicking the account name to copy it. Use this address to receive funds. |
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| Once setup is complete, the MetaMask fox icon will appear in your browser's toolbar. Click this icon to open the extension, view your account, and manage your assets. For Microsoft Edge, the process is identical, as it uses the same Chromium-based extension store. | Understand the distinction: the password is for local access, while the Secret Recovery Phrase restores your wallet anywhere. Losing the phrase means losing access to your assets permanently. |
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| Setting Up MetaMask on the Kiwi Browser | Confirm Your Recovery Phrase and Set a Password |
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| Install the Kiwi Browser from the Google Play Store, as it's the only major mobile browser that supports Chrome extensions. | Write down your 12-word recovery phrase in the exact order it appears on your screen. Use pen and paper for this step; avoid digital screenshots or text files that could be compromised. |
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| Open Kiwi and navigate to the Chrome Web Store. Use the search bar to find "MetaMask". Select the official extension by ConsenSys to avoid fake wallets. | MetaMask will then ask you to confirm the phrase by selecting the words in the correct sequence. This verification ensures you have a perfect copy before proceeding. |
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| Tap "Add to Chrome" on the store page. A confirmation pop-up will appear; click "Add extension" to start the installation. You'll see a new puzzle piece icon in your browser's toolbar. | Next, create a strong password that is unique to this wallet. This password protects your MetaMask extension locally on your browser. While it encrypts your wallet on this device, remember that only your recovery phrase can restore your wallet fully. |
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| Click the new MetaMask icon to launch it. Choose "Get Started" and then "Create a Wallet". Agree to the terms if you wish to proceed. | Store your written recovery phrase in a secure, offline location, separate from your computer. Treat these words with the same level of security you would use for physical cash or a valuable document. |
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| | Add Custom Networks like Binance Smart Chain or Polygon |
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| Create a strong password of at least eight characters. This password encrypts MetaMask on your device, but it does not recover your wallet. | Open your MetaMask extension and click the network dropdown menu at the top. Select "Add network" from the list. |
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| The next screen reveals your Secret Recovery Phrase. Write these 12 words in exact order on paper and store them offline. Never share this phrase. | For greater safety and accuracy, use the "Add a network manually" button. This lets you enter the exact parameters, preventing errors from third-party sites. Here are the correct details for two popular networks. |
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| Confirm your phrase by selecting the words in the correct sequence when prompted. This step finalizes your wallet's security setup. | |
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| | Parameter |
| | Binance Smart Chain (BSC) |
| | Polygon (Matic) |
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| Your new wallet is ready. You can now receive assets by sharing your public address, or add existing wallets using your Secret Recovery Phrase. | |
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| | Network Name |
| | BNB Smart Chain |
| | Polygon Mainnet |
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| For easier access, long-press the MetaMask icon in Kiwi's toolbar and select "Pin extension" to keep it visible. | |
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| Creating a New Wallet and Secret Recovery Phrase | New RPC URL |
| | https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org/ |
| | https://polygon-rpc.com/ |
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| Select "Create a Wallet" when MetaMask first opens. The software will ask if you want to share usage data; you can accept or decline based on your preference. | |
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| | Chain ID |
| | 56 |
| | 137 |
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| Next, you will create a secure password. This password only unlocks the extension on your current browser; it does not recover your wallet. Make it strong and unique, combining letters, numbers, and symbols. | |
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| | Currency Symbol |
| | BNB |
| | MATIC |
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| MetaMask then generates your Secret Recovery Phrase. This 12-word phrase is the master key to your entire wallet and all funds within it. The software will show it to you once. | |
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| | Block Explorer URL |
| | https://bscscan.com |
| | https://polygonscan.com |
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| Write these 12 words down in the exact order presented. Use pen and paper, storing the paper in a very safe place. Never save this phrase digitally–avoid text files, emails, or screenshots, as these are vulnerable to hackers. | |
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| You must confirm the phrase by selecting the words in the correct sequence on the next screen. This step verifies you recorded it properly. After confirmation, your new wallet is active and ready to receive assets. | Carefully type each value into the corresponding field. Double-check the Chain ID and RPC URL, as mistakes here can cause failed transactions or loss of funds. After filling all fields, click "Save". |
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| Treat your Secret Recovery Phrase with the highest level of security. Anyone who knows these words can control your cryptocurrency. You will need this phrase to restore your wallet if you switch browsers, devices, or accidentally delete the extension. | Your new network will immediately appear in the dropdown list. Switch to it to interact with dApps on that chain. You'll need native currency (like BNB or MATIC) for transaction fees, which you can get from an exchange. |
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| Importing an Existing Wallet Using a Seed Phrase | |
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| Prepare your 12 or 24-word recovery phrase before you start. Have it written down and ensure you are in a completely private space where no one can see your screen or camera. | You can repeat this process for other networks like Avalanche or Fantom. Always verify network details from the project's official documentation before adding. To edit or remove a network later, go to Settings > Networks. |
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| | Connect Your Wallet to a Decentralized Application |
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| Open your browser extension and click "Get Started." Instead of creating a new wallet, select the option "Import an existing wallet" or "Import using Secret Recovery Phrase." | Open the decentralized application (dApp) you want to use in your browser. Look for a button labeled "Connect Wallet," "Connect," or a similar call to action, usually found in the top right corner of the dApp's website. |
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| You will see a text field. Carefully type your words in the exact order, with a single space between each one. | Clicking this button triggers a pop-up window from your MetaMask extension. This pop-up will ask you to select which wallet you'd like to connect. Choose MetaMask from the list if other wallet options are presented. |
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| Double-check each word for spelling errors. | [[https://extension-web.io/blog/metamask-extension-download.php|MetaMask recovery phrase]] will then open its own connection request. This screen shows you exactly what the dApp is requesting. Pay close attention to two key details: |
| Verify the sequence matches your written backup perfectly. | |
| Ignore any "paste" suggestions; typing manually reduces malware risks. | |
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| After entering the phrase, create a new, strong password. This password encrypts the wallet data on this specific device; it is different from your seed phrase. | The specific website address (URL) making the request. Verify it matches the dApp you intended to visit. |
| | The permissions being asked for, like viewing your wallet address and balance. |
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| Complete the import process. Your wallet will refresh and display all your accounts and assets associated with that recovery phrase. | If everything looks correct, click "Next" followed by "Connect" to approve the request. The dApp will now have access to your public address, allowing it to display your balance and prepare transactions. |
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| Confirm the import worked correctly. Check that the public address shown matches the one you expected from your old wallet. A good practice is to send a tiny test transaction between two accounts you own to verify you have full control. | For your first interaction with a new dApp, such as swapping tokens or minting an NFT, you will need to sign a transaction. Follow these steps when MetaMask prompts you: |
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| Connecting MetaMask to a Website or dApp | |
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| Look for a "Connect Wallet" button on the website, typically found in the top-right corner. Clicking it will usually present a list of wallet options; select MetaMask from this menu. | Review the transaction details: network, amount, and recipient. |
| | Check the estimated transaction fee (gas fee). You can adjust the fee priority for slower or faster confirmation. |
| | Click "Confirm" to sign and send the transaction to the network. A small amount of cryptocurrency (ETH for Ethereum) will be used to pay the network fee. |
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| Your MetaMask extension will automatically open a connection request window. This screen details what the dApp wants to access, like your public address. Carefully review these permissions before clicking "Next" and then "Confirm" to approve the connection. | You can disconnect the dApp at any time. Open MetaMask, click the three dots menu, go to "Connected sites," and find the site you wish to disconnect. This action revokes the dApp's permission to see your address but does not cancel any pending transactions. |
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| After connecting, the website will recognize your wallet address. You might see a shortened version of it displayed where the connect button was, confirming a successful link. This allows the dApp to view your balance and, with your explicit approval for each transaction, send requests for signing or payments. | |
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| For security, verify the website's URL is correct before connecting. If you need to switch accounts, click the MetaMask extension icon, select the desired account, and then refresh the dApp page. To disconnect, open MetaMask, go to the "Connected sites" menu under the three-dot icon, and manually remove the site's connection. | |
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| Adding Custom Networks such as Binance Smart Chain | |
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| Open your MetaMask extension and click the network dropdown menu at the top. Select "Add network" at the bottom of the list. | |
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| For manual entry, choose "Add a network manually". You will need to fill in the specific details for the Binance Smart Chain Mainnet: | |
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| Network name: BNB Smart Chain Mainnet | |
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| New RPC URL: https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org/ | |
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| Chain ID: 56 | |
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| Currency symbol: BNB | |
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| Block explorer URL: https://bscscan.com | |
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| Double-check each field for accuracy, especially the RPC URL. A single typo can prevent the connection. After verifying the information, click "Save". | |
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| Your wallet will instantly switch to the BNB Smart Chain. Confirm this by checking the network name displayed next to your account icon. You can now interact with dApps on BSC and see BNB balances. | |
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| To add other networks like Polygon or Avalanche, repeat the process using their official RPC details. Always obtain these settings from the project's official documentation to avoid security risks from malicious endpoints. | |
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| FAQ: | FAQ: |
| Is it safe to install MetaMask from the Chrome Web Store? | Is my MetaMask wallet the same if I install it on different browsers? |
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| Yes, installing MetaMask from the official Chrome Web Store is the recommended and safest method. The store listing is verified by Google and maintained directly by ConsenSys, the developers of MetaMask. Always check that the publisher is "MetaMask" and look for the official logo. Avoid downloading browser extensions from other websites or third-party links, as these could be malicious imitations designed to steal your recovery phrase and funds. | Yes, your wallet is the same. MetaMask creates a unique seed phrase (a set of 12 or 24 words) that is the master key to your wallet and funds. When you install MetaMask on a new browser, you can use the "Import Wallet" option and enter your existing seed phrase. This will restore your complete wallet with all its accounts and transaction history on that new browser. Your crypto isn't stored in the extension itself; it's on the blockchain. The extension is just a tool to access it using your keys. |
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| I use Microsoft Edge. Are the setup steps different? | I installed it on Kiwi Browser. Will it work with all Ethereum apps? |
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| The process is nearly identical. Open the Edge Add-ons store, search for "MetaMask," and click "Get" to install. The key difference is that after installation, Edge may ask for permission to run the extension in "InPrivate" windows if you want to use it there. The wallet creation and import process within the extension itself is exactly the same as on Chrome. | MetaMask on Kiwi Browser functions identically to the Chrome version. Kiwi is based on Chromium, so it supports extensions fully. You should be able to interact with any decentralized application (dApp) built for Ethereum or other EVM-compatible networks like Polygon, Arbitrum, or BNB Smart Chain. The main advantage of Kiwi on mobile is that it allows browser extensions, giving you a full desktop-like MetaMask experience on your Android phone. |
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| Why would I use Kiwi Browser for MetaMask? | What's the difference between adding MetaMask to Chrome and Microsoft Edge? |
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| Kiwi Browser is a mobile browser for Android that supports desktop-style Chrome extensions. This is the primary reason to use it. If you want to access Web3 applications and your MetaMask wallet directly from your Android phone, Kiwi Browser allows you to install the standard [[https://extension-web.io/blog/metamask-extension-download.php|MetaMask browser extension]] extension just like on a desktop. It provides a more full-featured Web3 experience on mobile compared to using a simple browser wallet or a dApp browser within a mobile app. | Practically, there is no functional difference. Both Chrome and Edge are built on the Chromium engine, so the MetaMask extension is the same. The installation process is nearly identical: visit the Chrome Web Store from either browser, find MetaMask, and add it. Your wallet experience, security features, and connection to dApps will be the same. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference for the browser's interface or built-in tools. |
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| What do I do if the MetaMask icon disappears from my browser toolbar? | I'm worried about security. How does MetaMask keep my seed phrase safe on my browser? |
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| Don't worry, the extension is likely still installed. Click the puzzle piece or extensions menu icon in your browser's toolbar (top-right corner). Find MetaMask in the list and click the pin icon next to it. This will restore the fox icon to your visible toolbar for easy access. If it's not in the list, you may need to reinstall it from the store. | MetaMask is designed as a non-custodial wallet, meaning you alone control your seed phrase. When you first create a wallet, the extension generates the phrase and asks you to write it down on paper. It is never sent to MetaMask's servers. All private key operations (like signing transactions) happen locally on your device. The extension also prompts you to create a strong password, but this only encrypts the wallet data *on that specific browser installation*. It does not protect your seed phrase itself, which is why writing it down offline is the most critical security step. |
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| I already have a wallet. How do I add it to MetaMask on a new browser? | After installing, I see "No Provider" or "Install MetaMask" errors on some websites. How do I fix this? |
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| During the initial setup, choose "Import wallet" instead of "Create a new wallet." You will need your Secret Recovery Phrase—the 12 or 24-word phrase you were given when you first created your original wallet. Enter the words in the exact order, with a single space between each. This will restore your entire wallet, including all accounts and network settings. Never enter this phrase on any website, only directly into the MetaMask extension pop-up. | This error means the website cannot detect the MetaMask extension. Try these steps: 1) Ensure MetaMask is installed and unlocked. 2) Refresh the webpage. 3) Check if you have multiple wallet extensions (like Trust Wallet or Binance Chain Wallet) that might be interfering; try disabling others. 4) In your browser's extension settings, confirm MetaMask has permission to run on the website's URL. 5) For persistent issues, reinstall MetaMask (using your seed phrase to restore) or try a different Chromium-based browser, as some conflict with specific browser versions. |
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