What is Metamask? (And How To Use It)

Metamask is a cryptocurrency wallet used to interact with the Ethereum blockchain. It enables users to connect with dapps, smart contracts, and other web3 applications.

Considered a top wallet for Ethereum, Metamask wallet is built and supported by ConsenSys and provides a basic interface for anyone to perform transactions on the decentralized web.

It's a browser extension and can be added to a computer like any other chrome extension. It's also known as a hot wallet due to they way it stores its keys, this is in contrast to hardware wallet solutions like Ledger (which are seen to be more secure).

How to Get Started With Metamask

Though crypto and web3 can be difficult concepts for many to grasp setting up a Metamask wallet is relatively straightforward and can be done in a couple of minutes.

You will need a chromium based browser, like Google Chrome or Brave to get started and then you just need to simply head over to the chrome store to find and download the Metamask Extension.

Once you've downloaded the official extension from the Chrome Store you will want to follow the instruction provided on the Metamask website (or video below).

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Make sure to store your keys safely, ensuring that they are never entered online anywhere, whether in a photo or text file and to not reveal them to anyone.

If you lose your keys or another individual gains access to them you could have all your funds taken or transactions performed on your behalf without your permission.

Pros & Cons of Metamask

Metamask isn't for everyone, some prefer the benefits of hardware wallets due to their enhanced security, others prefer alternative hot wallets due to their feature sets (NFT viewing, etc). To help you better understand the pros and cons of Metamask we've included some general points often brought up by the community.

Pros

• Accessible: Available via the chrome store and free, Metamask is about as accessible as it gets.
• Easy-to-use: Even a beginner can get set up with Metamask relatively quickly and securely
• Popular: Metamask is the leading hot wallet for Ethereum and is widely used by the web3 community.

Cons

• Security: Metamask stores your keys via the browser and as a result is less secure than other solutions.
• UX/UI Interface: For some more design oriented users Metamask can leave something to be desired.