Easy
Metamask is what: to know everything about this decentralized portfolio
Wondering what Metamask is for and why so many cryptocurrency investors use it? In short, it is a decentralized portfolio dedicated to blockchains compatible with Ethereum Ethereum Machine (EVM). It is mainly used to store your cryptocurrencies , make transactions decentralized finance applications ( DeFi ). This interface allows you to manage your public addresses and private keys from a browser or a smartphone.
Table of contents
What is Metamask? A decentralized portfolio to manage your cryptocurrencies
Metamask is one of the many decentralized portfolios that allow users to keep total control over their private keys and their digital assets. Unlike centralized exchange platforms, where you delegate the management of your funds to a third party, a non -Custodial wallet like Metamask gives you direct access to your cryptocurrencies on blockchains. Metamask is not the only one on the market: alternatives like Trust Wallet (developed by Binance ), Rabby, Exodus, Brave and lots of others also offer similar solutions, each with its own features and integrations. In addition, several centralized exchanges have launched their own non -custom portfolios, such as Coinbase Wallet , allowing users to store their cryptos without depending on the centralized exchange services . According to a consensys study published in 2023, the application would have exceeded the bar of 30 million monthly active users .
What is Metamask? Direct control of your keys
An address on Metamask presents itself as a series of characters generally starting with 0x. This public key is unique, and you can generate several within the same account. The essential point is that you keep constant access to your funds: the platform can in no case suspend your transactions. Metamask is actually only a technological bridge between you and the blockchain: a simple software tool that allows you to sign the actions thanks to your private key.
What is Metamask? EVM compatibility
Metamask is not limited to Ethereum : he also interacts with other compatible blockchains, often called "sidechains" or "EVM blockchains", among which we find Polygon , BNB Smart Chain or Avalanche . You can manage several networks in the same interface by manually adding their contact details (RPC, Chainid, network name). In practice, this means that you can go from the Ethereum to Polygon in one click, while retaining the same public addresses. However, we will see that for an even wider management of networks, including non-EVM networks like Solana , other solutions are more suitable by offering EVM and non-EVM compatibility in a single interface.
Key management
When creating the portfolio, Metamask generates a “seed phrase”: this 12 -words suite allows you to regenerate your addresses on any compatible application. The main thing is to protect the Seed Phrase , since anyone who takes possession of it can immediately import your wallet on another tool and access all your assets.
To learn how to use a decentralized portfolio , manage your public and private keys and interact safely with the blockchain , we offer a free guide that accompanies you step by step . This guide includes explanatory screenshots and clear instructions to allow you to easily control the bases. Here is what you will find there:
- How to create a decentralized portfolio : Installation on computer or mobile, choice of good Wallet (metamask, Trust Wallet , exodus, etc.), securing your seed phrase and first steps to configure your account.
- Understand the functioning of public and private keys : explanation of their role, differences between the two, importance of the protection of private keys.
- Add and manage cryptocurrencies to your wallet : deposit and withdrawal of funds, addition of new tokens, verification of transaction costs and confirmation deadlines on different blockchains.
This guide is designed for crypto beginners autonomous quickly while minimizing the risks. Download it for free by filling out the form below and take control of your digital assets today!
What is Metamask? Integrated exchange features
swap option that has grown the rates of different decentralized platforms (DEX). You can directly exchange ERC-20, Matic, BNB or other EVM tokens from the interface. This feature, which is based on aggregation protocols, facilitates access to the best prices, even if additional costs can be applied for the service.
What is Metamask? A web extension and a mobile application
For most beginners in cryptocurrency, Metamask first presents themselves as a browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, etc.). This extension is the most popular, because it connects you with one click to a large number of dApp S (decentralized applications): decentralized exchange platforms, online games of the “Play-to-Earn type”, staking , etc. In addition, a mobile version (Android, iOS) exists for those who prefer to manage their assets via their smartphone.
The Seed Phrase: the key to your sovereignty
Much of Metamask's safety is based on the Seed Phrase. This sentence is generated locally during the first configuration. You are free to choose where and how to store it. Some users print it, others engrave it on metal plates specially designed to withstand fire and water.
Never confuse the Seed Phrase with the simple password defined in Metamask to protect local access: the password is only used to encrypt your keys on the computer or mobile. The Seed Phrase allows you to fully regenerate your wallet wherever you are.
Blockchains compatible with Metamask
Metamask takes care of any EVM compatible blockchain . This covers in particular:
• Ethereum : the native network, created by Vitalik Buterin, where many tokens ERC-20 and NFT ERC-721 are issued.
• Polygon (formerly Matic): a very popular scalability solution, at transaction costs significantly lower than on Ethereum .
• BNB Smart Chain (Ex- Binance Binance exchange platform , known for its reduced costs.
• Avalanche : Blockchain specializing in treatment speed and interoperability, incorporating several subnets (Subnet).
Transaction costs, Gas Fees and Bridging
On Ethereum or on any EVM network, each transaction is invoked costs (Gas Fees). They reward validators or minors who process your requests. On Ethereum, these costs can fluctuate a few cents to several tens of euros depending on the congestion of the network. On BNB Smart Chain or Polygon, they generally remain very low, often in the order of the ten euro cents.
If you send a token from one network to another, you will have to go through a bridge. These bridges ensure the conversion of your assets and sometimes affect additional costs. Metamask does not manage these bridges natively, but you can connect to specialized dApp(eg: Wormhole, Multichain, Cbridge) and sign the transaction from the extension to transfer your funds.
What is Metamask? A hot wallet
Metamask is commonly classified as a hot wallet , that is to say a portfolio connected to the internet permanently. This category of wallets is ideal for frequent transactions, quick access to decentralized applications ( dApp S) and trading on DeFi . However, due to its constant connection to the web, a hot wallet is more exposed to the risk of hacking and phishing.
Conversely, a cold wallet (or cold wallet) stores private out -of -line keys, on a physical medium such as a Ledger or Trezor key , thus drastically reducing the risks of cyberattacks. Cold cold wallet S are mainly used for long -term storage and securing high value assets, while hot wallet S like Metamask are favored for daily interactions with blockchain. For optimal security , many users combine both: they use a cold wallet to keep their main funds and a hot wallet for their current transactions.
What is Metamask? How to install and configure metamask
The installation process is very fast. On a computer, you go to the official metamask website and download the extension adapted to your browser.
Once installed, the reservoir icon appears in the extensions bar and you can start configuring your wallet, either by important an existing Seed Phrase, or by creating a new portfolio.
On mobile, just download the application from the Google Play or the App Store.
By launching the extension or application, you are guided step by step:
• Creation of a new portfolio or import from an existing portfolio.
• Choice of local password to encrypt private keys.
• Revelation of the Seed Phrase (12 words to note preciously).
Once the configuration has been completed, you arrive on the interface that displays the default network (often Ethereum Mainnet), as well as your ETH balance.
What is Metamask? Secure your wallet and avoid phishing
Although Metamask has the reputation of being a reliable tool (no major flaw has been detected since its launch in 2016), the end user must respect basic safety rules:
• Always check the URL of the site on which we connect: some counterfeits imitate the interface of Metamask or dApp S to steal your keys.
• Never disclose your seed phrase: the official support will never ask you.
• Lock the wallet when you do not use it: this prevents a third party from accessing it via your current session.
• Avoid connecting to any dApp : there are malicious sites that request unlimited authorizations on your funds.
• Use a Wallet hardware in addition ( Ledger , Trezor ): this allows you to store your private keys outside the computer, and to validate each transaction on an external device.
What is Metamask? An interface among others: the portability of the keys
What must be understood is that Metamask is only an application to manage your keys. If you have noted your Seed Phrase, you can re-impose the same wallet in another decentralized application (like Trust Wallet or Exodus): your public addresses and your sales will reappear, because they are recorded on the blockchain itself.
Clearly, as long as you are in possession of your recovery sentence, you are not a prisoner of a single interface. This is a fundamental aspect of the web3 , where the property of digital assets is really in the hands of the user, regardless of the interface used to connect to it.
Migration or duplication of wallet
If one day you decide to move on to another solution, you can very well import your sentence. Cryptocurrencies will remain accessible, without limitation, provided that the new Appliciton supports the cryptocurrencies you have. You may need to reconfigure your networks (Polygon, BNB chain, etc.) and your personalized tokens.
Alternatives: other web3 wallets
Metamask is far from being the only one on the market. According to a classification published at the end of 2024 by cryptorank, there are more than twenty portfolios. Among the most notable alternatives:
- Trust Wallet : Very popular on smartphone, it supports a larger number of blockchains, including some non-EVMs like Bitcoin, Solana , Cardano , Aptos etc.
- Exodus : Multi-active wallet offering a very intuitive interface for beginners and a native support of many blockchains, including non-EVMs like Bitcoin, Solana , Cardano , Aptos, which also makes it a solid alternative to Metamask for those who want to manage a wider range of networks. It also supports Lightning Network on mobile.
- Coinbase Wallet : Although it is developed by Exchange Coinbase non -Custodial wallet leaves you fully master of your funds . It simplifies the direct purchase of cryptocurrencies and interaction with certain dApp , while offering independent management of your private keys and also offers a wide choice of supported networks.
Each of these wallets claims particularities: some are specialized in NFT , others focus on speed , and others take care of rarer protocols such as Lightning Network for Bitcoin (which Metamask is not natively, being EVM).
The question of compatibility is therefore crucial: if you are used to using non-EVM (for example Solana or Aptos), you will probably have to turn to a more versatile Wallet , like Exodus or Trust Wallet , which supports a wide range of assets and ecosystems.
More information here
What is Metamask? How to take advantage of Metamask's features?
Beyond the simple reception and the sending of cryptocurrencies, Metamask offers a wide range of useful possibilities for a beginner who wishes to explore the universe of the DeFi or the NFT.
Interaction with smart contract
On a network like Ethereum , thousands of smart contract manage financial services (loans, loans, staking , liquidity pools) or entertainment (games, play-to-earn , NFT collection). Metamask allows you to "sign" a transaction, that is to say to give your cryptographic agreement to interact with these contracts. Thus, you can for example:
• Place ETH on a DeFi to generate interest.
• Participate in a launch of Token.
• Acquire an NFT on a dedicated marketplace.
Signature requests are presented to you in the form of a pop-up explaining in clear which operation is requested. It's up to you to check that the address of the smart contract is that of the official protocol.
Buy cryptocurrencies directly
Certain versions of Metamask now integrate a service to buy cryptocurrency via bank card or SEPA transfer, thanks to third-party partners such as Transak or MoonPay. The costs can be higher than on a centralized exchange, but it remains practical if you need tokens quickly to pay for your transactions.
Integration with decentralized exchanges (DEX)
A DEX is a platform for the exchange of tokens without going through a central player. For example, you find Uniswap, SUSHISWAP, CURVE or PANCAKESWAP (on BNB SMART CHAIN). Metamask natively connects to this type of application.
You simply select "Connect Wallet" on the DEX of your choice, you validate the connection from Metamask, then you can buy or sell tokens, provide liquidity or even make a farming. All confirmations are then made via pop-ups indicating the cost of Gas costs and the tokens you receive.
Internal swaps
The Metamask swap option allows, from the "Swap" tab, to exchange a token for another without having to go to a Dex yourself. Metamask compares several roads and offers you the most interesting. This is a practical solution if you do not want to multiply the connections. However, note that an additional service commission can apply.
Access the NFT and interact with the DeFi
Metamask manages NFT via the ERC-721 format (and other similar standards). You can therefore display the list of your NFTS, or even add it manually if a token does not appear automatically. Ditto for rarer or exotic tokens (ERC-1155, etc.).
In the field of decentralized finance, Metamask is a gateway to many protocols. Whether it is for stike of eTh, borrow stablecoinor participate in a launchpad, the steps are similar:
- Connect your wallet to the platform.
- Sign the authorization to spend certain tokens.
- Sign the transaction which deploys the desired action (loan, swap, pool placement).
At each stage, Metamask calculates the transaction costs in real time and warns you if the operation costs you more than expected.
Conclusion: an essential tool to start
Métamask is one of the references in decentralized portfolio : its simplicity of installation, its compatibility extended with many EVM blockchains and the fluid integration with the main dApp S make it an ideal choice for beginners. Note however that alternatives compete in Metamask, in particular by taking charge of a larger range of networks.
By immediately answering the question "Metamask is what" , we realize that it is above all an open interface allowing to manage your own assets, in an environment where safety and transparency take precedence. Transactions are signed via your private key, you can explore the DeFi , acquire NFT or simply store your cryptocurrencies without depending on an intermediary.
If you are starting to crypto and try to understand the operation of a non-custodial wallet, non-custodial wallets are a logical step to get into the world of blockchains. Take the time to hold your seed phrase well, to practice basic manipulations (sending, reception, connection to a dApp), and you will be quickly operational.
Finally, whether it is to exchange tokens , take advantage of a staking DeFi protocol or to access a bridge to send your funds to another network, Metamask is one of the solutions.
Remember only that like any decentralized wallet, Metamask requires increased vigilance: store your 12 words in a safe place, locate local access with a solid password and never validate an authorization if you are not sure of the address or reliability of the protocol.
Investments in cryptocurrencies are risky. Crypternon could not be held responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused following the use of a property or service put forward in this article. Readers must do their own research before undertaking any action and investing only within the limits of their financial capacities. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This article does not constitute an investment .
Certain links of this article are sponsorship links, which means that if you buy a product or you register via these links, we will collect a commission on the part of the sponsored company. These commissions do not train any additional cost for you as a user and certain sponsorships allow you to access promotions.
AMF recommendations. There is no guaranteed high yield, a product with high performance potential implies a high risk. This risk taking must be in line with your project, your investment horizon and your ability to lose part of this savings. Do not invest if you are not ready to lose all or part of your capital .
To go further, read our pages legal notices , privacy policy and general conditions of use .
Yohan Uzzan
Training engineer, I quickly became interested in the field of finance. Convinced that decentralized finance has a bright future ahead of it, I participate in its democratization by developing Crypternon.
