MetaMask wallet extension is a browser extension and mobile app that acts as a cryptocurrency wallet and gateway to blockchain apps, primarily focusing on Ethereum. Below is a step-by-step guide to installing, setting up, and using the MetaMask wallet extension:

Installing MetaMask

1. Download the Extension:
   • Visit the official MetaMask website.
   • Click on "Download".
   • Select the appropriate extension for your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Brave).
2. Add to Browser:
   • Follow the prompts to add the extension to your browser.
   • Once installed, the MetaMask fox icon will appear in your browser’s toolbar.

Setting Up MetaMask

1. Open MetaMask:
   • Click on the MetaMask icon in your browser toolbar.
2. Get Started:
   • Click "Get Started".
3. Create a New Wallet or Import an Existing One:
   • Create a New Wallet:
     • Click "Create a Wallet".
     • Agree or disagree to MetaMask's data collection (optional).
     • Create a strong password and click "Create".
     • Backup your Secret Recovery Phrase (seed phrase) by writing it down on paper and storing it securely. This phrase is crucial for recovering your wallet.
     • Confirm your seed phrase by selecting the words in the correct order.
     • Once confirmed, your new wallet is created and you are logged in.
   • Import an Existing Wallet:
     • Click "Import Wallet".
     • Enter your 12-word seed phrase in the correct order.
     • Create a new password and click "Import".

Using MetaMask

1. Unlock MetaMask:
   • Click the MetaMask icon in your browser toolbar.
   • Enter your password to unlock your wallet.
2. View Account:
   • Once logged in, you can view your account balance, recent transactions, and token holdings.
   • Your Ethereum address is displayed at the top. Click it to copy the address.
3. Send and Receive Tokens:
   • Send Tokens:
     • Click the "Send" button.
     • Enter the recipient’s Ethereum address, the amount to send, and select the token.
     • Confirm the transaction and adjust gas fees if necessary.
   • Receive Tokens:
     • Click your account name to copy your address.
     • Share your address with the sender.
4. Interact with DApps:
   • Visit a DApp website.
   • MetaMask will prompt you to connect your wallet to the DApp.
   • Approve the connection to interact with the DApp using your MetaMask wallet.

Security Tips

• Keep Your Seed Phrase Safe: Never share your seed phrase with anyone. Store it offline in a secure location.
• Verify URLs: Always ensure you are visiting the official MetaMask website or using legitimate DApps to avoid phishing scams.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create a strong, unique password for your MetaMask wallet.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): While MetaMask itself doesn't support 2FA, you can enable it on the platforms and exchanges you use with MetaMask.

Additional Features

• Network Configuration: MetaMask supports multiple Ethereum networks, including the mainnet and various testnets. Switch networks by clicking the network name at the top.
• Add Custom Tokens: If a token isn’t displayed, add it manually by clicking "Add Token" and entering the token’s contract address.
• Mobile App: MetaMask offers a mobile app available for iOS and Android, allowing you to manage your wallet on the go.

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