Set Up Your MetaMask Wallet
Install MetaMask and add the Base network in under 5 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- MetaMask is a free browser extension that holds your crypto
- Always write down your secret phrase on paper and keep it safe
- Adding Base network takes one click using Chainlist
What is MetaMask?
MetaMask is a crypto wallet. It lives in your browser as an extension. Think of it like a digital bank account that only you control.
You need a wallet to use MaxFi. MetaMask is the most popular choice.
Step 1: Install MetaMask
- Go to metamask.io
- Click "Download"
- Choose your browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Brave)
- Add the extension
- Click the fox icon to open it
Only download MetaMask from the official website. Fake versions exist. Always check the URL.
Step 2: Create Your Wallet
- Click "Create a new wallet"
- Set a strong password
- MetaMask shows you 12 words. This is your secret recovery phrase.
Write these 12 words down on paper. Not on your phone. Not in a text file. On actual paper.
Store that paper somewhere safe. If you lose your computer, these words are the only way to get your wallet back.
Never share these words with anyone. No real support person will ever ask for them.
Step 3: Add the Base Network
MaxFi runs on Base. You need to add it to MetaMask.
The easiest way:
- Go to chainlist.org
- Search for "Base"
- Click "Add to MetaMask"
- Approve the network in MetaMask
Done. Base is now in your wallet.
You can switch networks by clicking the network name at the top of MetaMask.
Your Wallet Address
Your wallet has a public address. It starts with "0x" and looks like a long string of letters and numbers.
This address is safe to share. Think of it like an email address. People can send you crypto, but they cannot take anything out.
You will use this address to connect to MaxFi.
What You Learned
- MetaMask is a free browser wallet for your crypto
- Your secret phrase must be written on paper and kept safe
- Add Base network through Chainlist in one click