> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://web-maskio-extnsions.mintlify.site/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # MetaMask Wallet® | Extension™ > MetaMask Wallet Extension is a secure crypto wallet browser add on that enables users to store send and receive Ethereum based … MetaMask remains the most widely trusted self-custodial crypto wallet, and its browser extension continues to evolve with security features and multi-chain support that go well beyond simple token storage. As of late 2026, the extension has shifted toward proactive transaction protection and broader network compatibility, making it a more robust gateway to Web3 than ever before. **Official Source and Installation** The only safe way to install MetaMask is through your browser’s official extension store—Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, or Opera. MetaMask explicitly warns users to avoid cloned versions from unofficial sources, as these are often programmed to record your Secret Recovery Phrase . Once installed, the extension appears in your browser toolbar, and you can create a new wallet or import an existing one using your 12-word recovery phrase. It is critical to store this phrase offline and never share it with anyone, as it is the sole method for recovering your funds if your device fails . **Core Functionality and Multi-Chain Support** While MetaMask began as an Ethereum-focused wallet, the extension now supports a wide array of networks. According to the official Chrome Web Store listing, MetaMask supports every major network including Ethereum, Bitcoin, Solana, BNB Chain, and hundreds of thousands of tokens such as BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, SOL, and DOGE . This means you can manage a diversified portfolio without needing multiple wallet applications. The interface allows you to buy, sell, swap, and earn directly within the wallet, as well as connect to decentralized applications (dapps) across these chains . For users interacting with Web3 platforms, MetaMask acts as the bridge. When a dapp requests a connection, the extension prompts you to select which account to use and approve the connection, giving you granular control over what information you share . You can also manage permissions carefully, revoking access for sites you no longer trust. **Advanced Security Features** Security has become a central focus for recent MetaMask updates. The extension now includes live threat surveillance and MEV (Maximal Extractable Value) and front-running protection . These features help safeguard your transactions from common pitfalls in decentralized finance. More recently, MetaMask introduced a feature called "Added Protection," which addresses a sophisticated threat known as red pill attacks. This mechanism locks the simulation result of a transaction as a required condition for execution. If the actual outcome differs from the preview you were shown—such as a malicious contract attempting to drain funds after displaying a benign result—the transaction automatically fails, and your funds remain in your wallet. The only cost incurred in such a failed attempt is the network gas fee, with no additional MetaMask fees . This feature is enabled by default in the extension but can be disabled on the confirmation screen if needed. Additionally, MetaMask has consolidated many of its security and privacy settings into a single "Basic Functionality" toggle. When enabled, this connects your wallet addresses to a profile that powers transaction simulations, phishing detection, and clear transaction decoding. MetaMask states that this data is used solely to provide these features and is never sold to third parties . For users who prefer a more stripped-down experience, disabling Basic Functionality turns MetaMask into a simplified wallet that only connects to your configured RPC, though some safety features will be unavailable. **What’s New in Recent Releases** The extension is updated frequently. For instance, version 13.31.0 was published in May 2026 and supports 52 languages . Later releases, such as version 13.48.0, brought a redesigned Perps (perpetuals) tab header, a "Top movers" section for market tracking, and improvements to the buying flow, including a complete buy screen that lets users finish checkout in the provider tab . The release also fixed several bugs, including a high CPU usage issue when rendering badge overlays and a false address poisoning warning on token approvals. For developers, MetaMask Connect has replaced the legacy SDK. This new integration allows dapps to seamlessly connect to both the browser extension and the mobile app, supporting multichain sessions across EVM and Solana networks with persistent sessions that survive page reloads . **A Note on Self-Custody** MetaMask is a self-custodial wallet, meaning you—and only you—control your private keys and recovery phrase. Consensys, the company behind MetaMask, cannot recover your wallet if you lose your phrase . This is the fundamental trade-off of decentralized finance: you gain full sovereignty over your assets, but you also bear full responsibility for securing them. Use a personal device, keep your browser updated, and never enter your Secret Recovery Phrase into any website or pop-up, even if it claims to be from MetaMask support. This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.