How to Create a MetaMask Wallet: A Complete 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

How to Create a MetaMask Wallet: The Ultimate 2026 Beginner’s Guide

Entering the world of decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and Web3 can feel like stepping onto a different planet. To navigate this landscape, you need more than just curiosity; you need a gateway. That gateway is a crypto wallet, and none are more iconic or widely used than MetaMask.

In this extensive guide, we will walk you through exactly how to create a MetaMask wallet on both desktop and mobile. We will also dive deep into the security protocols you must follow to keep your digital assets safe from hackers and scammers.

What is MetaMask?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s briefly touch on the “what.” MetaMask is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet that acts as a bridge between your web browser (or mobile device) and the Ethereum blockchain (along with other networks like BNB Chain, Polygon, and Arbitrum).

Because it is non-custodial, you—and only you—hold the keys to your funds. While this provides ultimate freedom, it also places 100% of the responsibility for security on your shoulders.

Phase 1: How to Create a MetaMask Wallet on Desktop (Browser Extension)

The browser extension is the most popular way to use MetaMask, especially for interacting with decentralized applications (dApps) like Uniswap or OpenSea.

Step 1: Download and Install the Extension

1. Navigate to the official MetaMask website.

2. Click the Download button.

3. Choose your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, or Opera).

4. You will be redirected to the web store (e.g., Chrome Web Store). Click Add to [Browser].

5. Confirm the installation by clicking Add Extension in the pop-up.

Step 2: Initialize the Setup

Once installed, a new tab will automatically open with a fox icon following your mouse.

1. Click Get Started.

2. You will be asked if you want to share “Usage Data.” This is optional; select No Thanks or I Agree based on your preference.

3. Click Create a New Wallet.

Step 3: Create a Strong Password

1. Enter a new password. Note: This password only unlocks the extension on this specific device. It is not your recovery phrase.

2. Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.

3. Agree to the Terms of Use and click Create.

Step 4: Secure Your Secret Recovery Phrase (Critical)

MetaMask will now show you a video about the “Secret Recovery Phrase” (SRP). Do not skip this.

1. Click the “lock” icon to reveal your 12-word phrase.

2. Write these words down on physical paper. Do not take a screenshot. Do not save it in your email.

3. Store this paper in a secure, fireproof location.

Step 5: Confirm Your Phrase

MetaMask will ask you to select the words in the correct order to ensure you’ve backed them up. Once finished, click Confirm and then All Done.

Phase 2: How to Create a MetaMask Wallet on Mobile (iOS & Android)

If you prefer trading on the go, the MetaMask mobile app is an excellent choice. It even includes a built-in browser for Web3 sites.

Step 1: Download the App

1. Open the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

2. Search for “MetaMask.” Ensure the developer is MetaMask or ConsenSys to avoid fake apps.

3. Tap Install.

Step 2: Setup or Sync

1. Open the app and tap Get Started.

2. Tap Create a new wallet.

3. Create a password (you can also enable FaceID or TouchID here).

Step 3: The Recovery Phrase

Just like the desktop version, you will be given a 12-word recovery phrase. Follow the same protocol: write it down offline.

Phase 3: Securing Your New Wallet

Learning how to create a MetaMask wallet is only half the battle. The other half is keeping it secure.

1. Never Share Your Seed Phrase

No official MetaMask support agent, website, or dApp will ever ask for your 12-word phrase. If a site asks for it, it is a scam.

2. Use a Hardware Wallet

For significant amounts of crypto, a “hot wallet” like MetaMask should be paired with a “cold wallet” (hardware wallet) like a Ledger or Trezor. This requires a physical button press on a device in your hand to authorize any transaction.

3. Beware of Phishing

Always double-check the URL of the sites you connect to. Scammers often create “cloned” sites that look identical to Uniswap or PancakeSwap to trick you into signing malicious transactions.

Adding Other Networks (Beyond Ethereum)

By default, MetaMask is set to the Ethereum Mainnet. However, most users want to access cheaper networks.

• BNB Chain (BSC): Popular for low-cost trading.

• Polygon: Great for NFTs and gaming.

• Arbitrum/Optimism: Layer 2 solutions for Ethereum.

To add these, click the network dropdown at the top of your wallet, select Add Network, and choose from the popular list provided by MetaMask.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to create a MetaMask wallet, you are ready to explore the frontier of the decentralized web. Remember: in the world of crypto, you are your own bank. Stay vigilant, keep your recovery phrase offline, and always double-check your transactions.