How to log in to MetaMask (extension & mobile)

MetaMask provides two primary interfaces: the browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge) and the mobile app (iOS, Android). Both use the same account model: a deterministic wallet derived from a recovery phrase (seed). Use the official extension/app distributed by the vendor.

MetaMask extension — sign-in steps

  1. Install the official extension: Visit the official MetaMask website or your browser's official extension store. Verify the publisher and reviews. Avoid copycat listings.
  2. Create or unlock: If you already have MetaMask installed, click the extension icon and enter your password to unlock. If creating a new wallet, follow the in-extension onboarding and securely record your 12-word recovery phrase.
  3. Lock the extension when not in use: Use the lock feature and set a strong password for the extension.

MetaMask mobile app — sign-in steps

  1. Install from official store: Use the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) and confirm the publisher name.
  2. Open and restore or create: Use your password or biometric unlock if set up. To restore, choose 'Import using seed phrase' and enter your 12-word phrase on-device only.
  3. Enable biometrics for convenience: On supported devices, enable FaceID / fingerprint for quick unlocking while keeping the seed offline.
Safety note: Never paste or type your seed phrase into websites, chat apps, or emails. Seed phrases belong only in trusted wallet apps during official restore flows.

Restore MetaMask account (using recovery phrase)

If you change devices or reinstall MetaMask, you can restore access using your recovery phrase. This is the only practical recovery method — losing your seed without a backup usually means permanent loss of funds.

How to restore (extension)

  1. Install the official extension and choose 'Import wallet'.
  2. Enter your 12-word recovery phrase in the exact order, using the device/extension input only.
  3. Set a new, strong password for the extension after restoring.

How to restore (mobile)

  1. Install the official MetaMask app and choose 'Import using seed phrase'.
  2. Enter your 12-word phrase and confirm. Optionally add a new PIN or enable biometrics.
  3. After restore, verify token balances and settings carefully.

If you don't have the seed

If you have lost your seed and cannot unlock the wallet, there is no technical way to recover funds. This underlines the critical importance of secure backups and redundancy.

Security best practices for MetaMask login

Protecting your wallet is about people, process, and technology. Apply these practical measures right away.

  • Use official sources: Always download MetaMask from the official website or trusted app store listing. Bookmark the official site.
  • Never share your seed: MetaMask support or any legitimate service will never ask for your full seed phrase.
  • Use strong passwords: Choose a unique, high-entropy password for the extension and any related accounts.
  • Consider hardware wallets: For significant sums, connect MetaMask to a hardware wallet (Ledger, Trezor) to keep private keys offline.
  • Beware of phishing: Check URLs carefully, inspect certificate information, and avoid copycat pages or fake extensions.
  • Limit approvals: When a dApp requests approvals, verify the contract and set explicit, minimal allowances where possible.

Troubleshooting common MetaMask login issues

Forgot password but have seed

If you forgot your extension password but have the seed, uninstall and reinstall the extension and restore using your recovery phrase. Then set a new password.

Extension not showing accounts

Try refreshing the page, restarting the browser, or resetting the extension's account view (Settings → Advanced → Reset Account). Restoring with seed on a fresh install is a reliable fallback if things are inconsistent.

Mobile app hangs or crashes

Update to the latest app version, clear app cache, or reinstall after confirming you have your seed backed up.

Transaction approval stuck

Check network congestion and nonce conflicts. In some cases canceling or replacing a transaction (increase gas) may be necessary — only do this if you understand on-chain confirmations.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MetaMask email me a recovery link?

No — MetaMask does not provide seed recovery via email. Recovery always uses the 12-word phrase you were given at setup.

Q: Is MetaMask safe to use with DeFi dApps?

MetaMask is widely used for DeFi. Security depends on your practices — use hardware wallets for large exposures, verify dApp contracts, and limit token approvals.

Q: Should I use a password manager for MetaMask password?

Yes — storing the extension password in a reputable password manager (but not the seed) is a good practice for password hygiene.

Contact & official resources

For official MetaMask help, always use the vendor's official website and support channels. Replace these placeholders with your site details when publishing.

  • Official site (example): https://metamask.io
  • Support (placeholder): support@example.com