How to Download and Install MetaMask Extension for Desktop and Mobile Devices

MetaMask is a self-custodial crypto wallet that lets you store tokens, connect to Web3 dApps, and manage NFTs directly from your browser or phone. It is available as a browser extension for major desktop browsers and as a mobile app for iOS and Android.

1. What MetaMask Supports (Browsers & Devices)

Before you start, check that your browser or device is supported. As of now, MetaMask offers:

• Desktop browser extension: Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, Opera.
• Mobile app: iOS (iPhone/iPad) and Android phones/tablets.

Safari on desktop does not support the MetaMask extension. If you use Safari, you can either install a supported browser (like Chrome or Firefox) or use the MetaMask mobile app.

2. Safety Checklist Before You Download MetaMask

2.1 Use only official MetaMask download links

Because crypto wallets are a common target for scammers, always download MetaMask from official sources:

• Type https://metamask.io/download directly into your browser’s address bar.
• Or use the official GitHub-hosted download page: https://metamask.github.io/download/.
• From there, click the button for your browser or mobile platform. You will be redirected to the official extension store or app store.

Avoid searching “MetaMask” in Google, the Chrome Web Store, or app stores and clicking random results, because fake extensions and apps can appear in search results.

2.2 Check that it’s the real MetaMask

When you reach the extension or app listing, verify:

• Publisher / Developer: It should be MetaMask or ConsenSys Software Inc. (wording may vary slightly by store).
• Official website link: The listing should link back to metamask.io.
• Logo: The familiar orange fox logo. Avoid imitations that look “almost” the same.
• Download count & reviews: The real app has very high install numbers and many reviews.

If anything feels off (strange name, low download count, no reviews, or a suspicious description), do not install. Go back to metamask.io/download and start again.

2.3 Prepare your device

• Update your browser to the latest version.
• Update your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
• Install reputable antivirus / anti-malware if possible.
• Make sure you are on a private network you trust (avoid public Wi-Fi for setup).

Note for heavy desktop users: Keep your MetaMask extension up to date and periodically check official announcements about bugs or performance issues. If you notice unusual CPU, RAM, or disk usage, temporarily disable the extension and investigate before continuing intensive use.

3. How to Install MetaMask Extension on Desktop Browsers

The basic flow is the same for Chromium-based browsers (Chrome, Brave, Edge, Opera) and similar for Firefox. Follow the steps below carefully.

3.1 Step 1 – Open the official MetaMask download page

1. Open your preferred supported browser (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, Opera).
2. In the address bar, type https://metamask.io/download and press Enter.
3. Check that:
   • The URL starts with https://.
   • The domain is exactly metamask.io, not a look-alike.
   • Your browser shows a secure connection (lock icon).

3.2 Step 2 – Choose your desktop browser

On the MetaMask download page, you’ll see options for different platforms. Under the browser section, choose:

• Chrome (also works for Brave and most Chromium-based browsers).
• Firefox.
• Edge.
• Opera.

Click the button that matches the browser you are currently using. You will be redirected to the official extension/add-on page for that browser.

3.3 Step 3 – Install MetaMask on Chrome, Brave, Edge, or Opera

The exact button text may vary, but the process is very similar on Chromium-based browsers:

1. On the extension page, check the developer (for example, ConsenSys Software Inc.) and make sure the website field points to metamask.io.
2. Click “Add to Chrome”, “Add to Brave”, “Get”, or “Add extension”, depending on your browser.
3. Your browser will show a permissions popup. Read what the extension can do, then click “Add extension” if you are satisfied.
4. Wait a few seconds while the extension downloads and installs. You should see a confirmation message when it’s done.

Pinning MetaMask to your toolbar (Chrome/Brave/Edge)

1. Click the extensions icon (usually a puzzle-piece icon) next to the address bar.
2. Find MetaMask in the list.
3. Click the pin icon so the fox logo appears permanently in your toolbar.

3.4 Step 4 – Install MetaMask on Firefox

1. From metamask.io/download, click the Firefox option.
2. You’ll be taken to the official Firefox Add-ons page.
3. Check the publisher name and verify that the page links to metamask.io.
4. Click “Add to Firefox”.
5. Firefox will show a permissions dialog. Click “Add” to confirm.
6. After installation, you should see the MetaMask fox icon in your toolbar or menu.

3.5 Step 5 – Create a new wallet in the extension

Once the extension is installed and pinned, you can create your wallet:

1. Click the MetaMask fox icon in your browser toolbar.
2. Click “Get Started”.
3. Choose “Create a new wallet” (if you don’t already have a MetaMask wallet).
4. Set a strong password for the extension (this protects your wallet on this device).
   • Use at least 12 characters with letters, numbers, and symbols.
   • Do not reuse passwords from other sites.
5. Read the brief tutorial about your Secret Recovery Phrase (also called “seed phrase”). This 12 or 24-word phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if you lose your device.
6. Click to reveal your Secret Recovery Phrase and:
   • Write it down on paper in the correct order.
   • Make at least one backup copy, kept in a different safe place.
   • Do not screenshot it, email it, or store it in cloud notes.
7. Confirm the words in the correct order when MetaMask asks you to.
8. Finish the setup. Your wallet will open on the default network (usually Ethereum Mainnet).

Important: Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase with anyone. MetaMask support, exchanges, and legitimate websites will never ask you for it.

3.6 Step 6 – Import an existing wallet into the extension

If you already have a MetaMask wallet (for example, from your phone) and want to use it on desktop:

1. Click the MetaMask icon in your browser.
2. Click “Get Started” > “Import using Secret Recovery Phrase”.
3. Carefully type your Secret Recovery Phrase in the correct order.
4. Choose a new strong password for this device.
5. Finish the import. Your existing accounts and balances will appear.

Only enter your Secret Recovery Phrase into the official MetaMask extension or app. Never type it into websites, Google Docs, or messaging apps.

4. How to Install MetaMask on Mobile (iOS & Android)

MetaMask has an official mobile app that works as a full wallet and dApp browser.

4.1 Step 1 – Find the official MetaMask app

• On iOS:
  1. Open the App Store.
  2. Search for “MetaMask”.
  3. Look for the orange fox logo and confirm the app name is MetaMask.
  4. Check that the developer is associated with MetaMask / ConsenSys and that the app has many downloads and reviews.
• On Android:
  1. Open Google Play Store.
  2. Search for “MetaMask”.
  3. Find the app with the fox logo and verify the publisher (such as ConsenSys Software Inc.) and the link to metamask.io.
  4. As with desktop, avoid clones with odd names, few downloads, or no reviews.

4.2 Step 2 – Download and install the app

1. Tap “Get” or “Install” in the App Store / Play Store.
2. Wait for the app to finish downloading and installing.
3. Once installed, tap “Open” or find MetaMask on your home screen.

4.3 Step 3 – Initial setup on mobile

1. Open the MetaMask app.
2. Tap “Get Started”.
3. Choose whether to:
   • Create a new wallet, or
   • Import using Secret Recovery Phrase (if you already have a wallet).
4. Review the terms of use and privacy options. You can usually choose whether to share anonymous usage data to help improve the app.

4.4 Step 4 – Create a new wallet on mobile

If you are new to MetaMask and want to start fresh on your phone:

1. Select “Create a new wallet”.
2. Set a strong passcode or password for the app. On many phones you can also enable biometric login (Face ID, Touch ID, fingerprint).
3. Read the explanation about your Secret Recovery Phrase.
4. Tap to reveal the phrase and write it down on paper. As on desktop:
   • Never screenshot your phrase.
   • Do not store it in email or cloud services.
   • Keep it somewhere only you can access.
5. Confirm the words in the correct order when the app asks.
6. Finish the setup. Your mobile wallet is now ready.

4.5 Step 5 – Import your desktop wallet into mobile

If you already created a wallet on desktop and want the same wallet on your phone:

1. Open the MetaMask app on your phone.
2. Tap “Get Started” > “Import using Secret Recovery Phrase”.
3. Enter your Secret Recovery Phrase carefully, in the correct order.
4. Set a passcode / password for your phone.
5. Finish the import. Your accounts and balances should match your desktop wallet.

Again, only import your wallet using the official MetaMask app you downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

5. Security Best Practices After Installing MetaMask

Installing MetaMask is just the beginning. To keep your funds safe, follow these ongoing best practices:

• Protect your Secret Recovery Phrase:
  • Store it offline (paper, metal backup, etc.).
  • Keep multiple copies in different secure places.
  • Never share it with anyone, even if they claim to be support staff.
• Use strong passwords:
  • Use unique passwords for MetaMask on each device.
  • Consider a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
• Double-check every website URL:
  • Always type important dApp URLs yourself or use bookmarks.
  • Avoid clicking wallet connection links from random social media posts or DMs.
• Review permissions and approvals:
  • Before confirming any transaction, read what you’re approving.
  • Be careful with unlimited token approvals; revoke them periodically using reputable tools.
• Keep software up to date:
  • Update your browser, OS, and MetaMask to the latest versions.
  • Install security patches promptly.
• Consider a hardware wallet:
  • For larger balances, connect MetaMask to a hardware wallet so private keys stay offline.

For more in-depth safety guidance, you can explore MetaMask’s official security and safety articles, which explain common scams and how to avoid them.

6. Troubleshooting Common MetaMask Installation Issues

6.1 I can’t find the MetaMask extension after installing

• On Chrome/Brave/Edge:
  • Click the extensions (puzzle) icon in the toolbar.
  • Find MetaMask in the list and click the pin icon.
• On Firefox:
  • Click the menu button > Add-ons and themes.
  • Go to Extensions and make sure MetaMask is enabled.

6.2 My browser says MetaMask is not compatible

• Check that you are using a supported browser (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, Opera).
• Update your browser to the latest version.
• If you use an unusual or very old browser, switch to one of the supported browsers for MetaMask.

6.3 I installed MetaMask but something looks suspicious

• Check the extension or app details:
  • Is the publisher name correct?
  • Does it link to metamask.io?
• If you suspect you installed a fake:
  • Immediately uninstall the extension or app.
  • If you entered your Secret Recovery Phrase, assume it is compromised. Create a new wallet on a clean device and move your funds as soon as possible.

6.4 I lost my device – what happens to my MetaMask wallet?

• If your Secret Recovery Phrase is safely backed up:
  • Install MetaMask on a new device (desktop or mobile).
  • Choose “Import using Secret Recovery Phrase”.
  • Enter your phrase and set a new password.
• If you do not have your Secret Recovery Phrase:
  • Unfortunately, MetaMask cannot recover your wallet for you.
  • This is why backing up the phrase during setup is absolutely critical.

7. FAQ: Installing MetaMask on Desktop and Mobile

7.1 Is MetaMask free to download and use?

Yes. MetaMask is free to download and install on both desktop and mobile. You only pay network fees (like gas fees on Ethereum) when sending transactions, swapping tokens, or interacting with certain dApps.

7.2 Can I use the same MetaMask wallet on desktop and mobile?

Yes. Your wallet is defined by your Secret Recovery Phrase, not by a specific device. You can install MetaMask on multiple devices and import the same wallet using your phrase. Make sure each device is secure and never share the phrase with anyone.

7.3 Can I install MetaMask on Safari?

There is no official MetaMask extension for desktop Safari. To use MetaMask on a Mac, install a supported browser like Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, or Opera, or use the MetaMask mobile app on your iPhone/iPad.

7.4 Do I need to verify my identity (KYC) to use MetaMask?

MetaMask itself does not normally require identity verification to create a wallet. However, some third-party services you access via MetaMask (such as exchanges or on-ramps) may ask for KYC depending on your country and what you’re doing.

7.5 What should I do if I think my MetaMask wallet has been hacked?

If you see transactions you didn’t approve or believe your Secret Recovery Phrase has been exposed:

• Stop using the compromised wallet immediately.
• Create a new wallet on a clean device.
• Move any remaining funds to the new wallet if it’s still safe to do so.
• Review how the compromise might have happened (malware, phishing site, fake extension) and update your security practices.

8. Final Thoughts

Downloading and installing MetaMask on desktop and mobile is straightforward, but security is everything. Always use official links, double-check the publisher, and treat your Secret Recovery Phrase like the keys to a safe. If you follow the steps and precautions in this guide, you’ll have a solid, secure starting point for exploring Web3 with MetaMask.