MetaMask® Extension® | Premier Blockchain Wallet App & Browser Extension

To import an existing wallet into the MetaMask Chrome Extension using a seed phrase or private key, follow these steps:

  1. Install MetaMask Extension: First, ensure you have the MetaMask Extension installed in your Chrome browser. You can download it from the Chrome Web Store if you haven't already.
  2. Open MetaMask: Click on the MetaMask icon in your browser's toolbar. If it's your first time using MetaMask, you will see options to create a new wallet. Since you want to import an existing wallet, click on "Import wallet" which is usually found at the bottom of the initial setup screen.
  3. Choose Import Method: You will be prompted to choose how you want to import your wallet. Select either "Import using seed phrase" or "Import using private key", depending on which method you have.
    • Import using Seed Phrase: If you have a seed phrase (also known as a recovery phrase) from a previous wallet, enter the 12 (or sometimes 24) word seed phrase into the provided field. Make sure to enter each word in the correct order. After entering the seed phrase, set a password for MetaMask and click "Import".
    • Import using Private Key: If you have a private key from your previous wallet, select "Import using private key" and paste the private key into the designated field. Again, set a password for MetaMask and click "Import".
  4. Complete the Import: MetaMask will then process your request and import your wallet. This may take a few moments. Once complete, you will see your imported wallet with its associated account balance and transaction history.
  5. Verify and Secure: Double-check that your imported wallet displays the correct balance and transaction history. Ensure you have securely stored your seed phrase or private key in a safe place. MetaMask will also prompt you to create a password if you haven't already, which adds an additional layer of security.

By following these steps, you can successfully import your existing wallet into the MetaMask Chrome Extension using either a seed phrase or private key, allowing you to manage your cryptocurrencies and interact with decentralized applications (dApps) directly from your browser.