Table of Contents
1. What is Metamask?
Metamask (often called the "Fox Wallet") is a multi-platform cryptocurrency wallet available on iOS, Android, and as a browser extension. Its iconic fox logo and seamless integration with decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and staking platforms make it one of the most popular Ethereum wallets.
Key Features:
- Supports multiple languages (including Chinese).
- Built-in token swapping (Swap) with a 0.875% fee.
- User-controlled gas fees for transaction speed customization.
- Non-custodial—users hold their private keys.
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2. Metamask Step-by-Step Tutorial
2.1 Wallet Creation & Browser Extension
Supported Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge.
Steps:
- Install the Metamask extension.
- Click the fox icon in your browser toolbar.
- Select "Create Wallet" (or "Import Wallet" if you have an existing seed phrase).
Backup your 12-word seed phrase—this is your private key. Store it offline.
- ⚠️ Never share your seed phrase or enter it on suspicious websites.
- Set a password to secure your wallet.
Pro Tip: Each account has a unique private key. You can create multiple accounts within one wallet.
2.2 Deposits, Withdrawals & Transactions
Funding Your Wallet:
- Deposit ETH via Wyre (credit card) or transfer from another wallet.
- Receive funds by sharing your ERC-20 address.
Transactions:
Adjust Gas Fees to prioritize speed:
- Low = Slow, Cheap
- Medium = Balanced
- High = Fast, Expensive
- Monitor transactions on Etherscan.
2.3 Token Management & Swaps
Adding Tokens:
- Click "Add Token" in your wallet.
- Search for the token or paste its contract address (find this on Etherscan).
Swapping Tokens:
- Use MetaMask Swap to exchange tokens directly in your wallet.
- Aggregates rates from Uniswap, Kyber, and others for the best price.
3. Connecting to Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
Why BSC? Lower fees than Ethereum.
Setup:
- Click the network dropdown (default: "Ethereum Mainnet").
Select "Custom RPC" and enter:
- Network Name: Smart Chain
- RPC URL:
https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org/ - Chain ID: 56
- Symbol: BNB
- Block Explorer:
https://bscscan.com
4. Linking MATIC Mainnet
For Polygon (MATIC) Network:
- Follow the same "Custom RPC" steps.
Enter:
- Network Name: Matic Mainnet
- RPC URL:
https://rpc-mainnet.maticvigil.com/ - Chain ID: 137
- Symbol: MATIC
- Explorer:
https://explorer.matic.network/
5. FAQs
Q1: Is Metamask safe?
A: Yes, if you protect your seed phrase and avoid phishing sites.
Q2: Why is my transaction stuck?
A: Increase the Gas Fee via "Speed Up" in transaction history.
Q3: Can I use Metamask for Bitcoin?
A: No—Metamask only supports Ethereum-compatible chains (e.g., BSC, MATIC).
Q4: How do I recover a lost wallet?
A: Re-import your seed phrase into a new device/extension.
6. Conclusion
Metamask’s flexibility (Ethereum, BSC, MATIC) and browser integration make it a top choice for both beginners and advanced users. Its swap feature and adjustable gas fees add unmatched convenience in DeFi.
Final Tip: Regularly audit your connected sites in Metamask settings to revoke unused permissions.
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