metamask extension gitbook

In order to enable dapps (decentralized applications) to access the blockchain, MetaMask needs to inject a Web3 JavaScript object into each page. By doing so, it will not change the website, but merel

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For detailed information on specific topics such as blockchain technology, tokens, swaps, Layer 2 networks and the rest, scroll down to "Next Steps".

Alternatively, you could also access each browser's extension store and search for MetaMask. Whatever you prefer!

Configuring your privacy settings

When installing the MetaMask extension, you'll be able to adjust privacy settings one-by-one to ensure the app is set up according to your privacy preferences.

To do this, simply hit the 'Advanced configuration' button in the wallet set-up process. Here you can toggle/configure settings including:

  • Phishing detection

  • Incoming transactions

  • Additional token price information from third-party sources

  • The default RPC provider

  • Token autodetect

  • Batch account requests

  • Custom IPFS gateway.

Don't worry if you're unsure during setup: once your wallet is up and running, you can access the same settings at any time in Settings > Security & Privacy.

Extension permissions

When adding MetaMask to your browser, you may ask why you’d have to approve an extension to “read and change all your data on the websites you visit”. Get ready, the answer is technical:

In order to enable dapps (decentralized applications) to access the blockchain, MetaMask needs to inject a Web3 JavaScript object into each page. By doing so, it will not change the website, but merely allows it to access the network. For a fuller explanation of this, see here.

If you are still not convinced, a good way to experiment and manage your browser is to sandbox your MetaMask: create a separate browser profile so that MetaMask is only installed there. This will let you get used to MetaMask and Web3 in an environment that's separate from your existing web identity.

That said, MetaMask is safe for browsing. Welcome — you're joining over 30 million MetaMask users all over the world!

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