Complete MetaMask Wallet Guide

A seed phrase (also called recovery phrase) is a set of 12 or 24 random words generated when you create a MetaMask wallet. This phrase is the master key to your wallet and all the accounts derived from it. If you lose access to your wallet, you can restore it on any device using this seed phrase. Anyone with your seed phrase has complete control over your funds, so it must be stored securely and never shared.

To recover your MetaMask wallet, install the extension or app and select "Import using seed phrase." Enter your 12 or 24-word seed phrase exactly as you recorded it, including the same order and spelling. After entering your phrase, create a new password. Your wallet and all associated accounts will be restored with your transaction history and balances.

Gas fees are transaction fees paid to network validators for processing and validating transactions on the blockchain. Every transaction (sending tokens, interacting with dApps, etc.) requires computational resources, and gas fees compensate validators for this work. Gas fees vary based on network congestion and transaction complexity. During times of high demand, fees increase as users compete to have their transactions processed faster.

To add a custom network: 1) Click the network dropdown at the top of MetaMask, 2) Select "Add Network," 3) Enter the network details (Network Name, RPC URL, Chain ID, Currency Symbol, Block Explorer). Always verify network details from official sources before adding them to avoid phishing attempts. Many dApps will automatically prompt you to add their network when you connect.

Unfortunately, transactions on most blockchains are irreversible. If you sent tokens to the wrong address, there is typically no way to recover them unless the recipient voluntarily returns them. Always double-check addresses before sending, use address book features to save frequently used addresses, and consider sending a small test transaction first when sending to new addresses.

To enhance MetaMask security: 1) Use a hardware wallet for significant holdings, 2) Never share your seed phrase or private keys, 3) Use a unique, strong password, 4) Enable biometric authentication on mobile, 5) Be cautious of phishing sites and fake dApps, 6) Regularly verify you're on legitimate websites, 7) Consider using a dedicated browser for crypto activities, 8) Keep your software updated.

MetaMask is a non-custodial wallet, meaning you control your private keys and funds. Centralized exchanges (like Coinbase or Binance) are custodial, meaning they control your private keys and you trust them to secure your funds. With MetaMask, you have full control and responsibility for your assets. With centralized exchanges, they manage security but can freeze or restrict access to your funds.