Skip to main content

Creating Your First Non-Custodial Wallet: Step-by-Step with MetaMask

· 3 min read

Why Start with MetaMask?​

Your first non-custodial wallet should be MetaMask.
It’s the foundation for understanding how wallets work, and nearly everyone in crypto begins with it.

Later, as you progress, you’ll explore other wallets (hardware, mobile, multi-chain, Bitcoin-only, etc.), but MetaMask gives you the core experience you need.

On our platform:

  • The “Security Basics” module explains how wallets, mnemonic phrases, and private keys function.
  • The “Crypto Wallets” module provides reviews of wallets I personally use, so you can choose the right mix for yourself.

But first — let’s set up MetaMask.

Installing MetaMask​

MetaMask works as a browser extension. Supported browsers include:

  • Chrome (recommended)
  • Opera
  • Yandex Browser
  • Brave
  • Firefox

👉 Always download MetaMask from the official website (link at the bottom of this post) to avoid phishing.

Steps:​

  1. Visit the official MetaMask website.
  2. Click Download for your browser.
  3. Install the extension and confirm with Add Extension.
  4. Accept MetaMask’s Terms of Use.
  5. Click Create a New Wallet.

Initial Setup​

  1. Data Collection Prompt

    • MetaMask asks to share anonymous usage data.
    • Click No, thanks (not needed).

  2. Language

    • You can switch the interface language.
    • I strongly recommend using English for crypto.
    • Translations are often inaccurate, and nearly all documentation and tools in crypto are English-first.

  3. Password Creation

    • Set a strong password.
    • This protects your local app only.
    • If forgotten, you can reset MetaMask and restore access with your mnemonic phrase.

Securing Your Wallet​

  1. MetaMask prompts you to Secure Your Wallet.

    • Click Secure My Wallet.

  2. You’ll be shown a 12-word mnemonic phrase.

    • This phrase is your private key in human-readable form.
    • It is the only way to recover your wallet on a new device.

  3. Write it down on paper — never store it digitally.

    • ❌ Do not screenshot.
    • ❌ Do not save in browser bookmarks or on cloud storage.
    • ✅ Write on paper and store it safely offline.

  4. MetaMask will ask you to confirm by re-entering several words.

    • Enter the correct words.
    • Click Confirm.

Your wallet is now successfully created. 🎉

After Setup​

  • MetaMask shows some basic usage instructions.
  • You can close the pop-ups.
  • Your first non-custodial wallet is ready.

⚡ Remember: Whoever has your mnemonic phrase has full control over your wallet.
Keep it secret, keep it safe.

Other Wallet Mentions​

In some posts, you may see examples using CryptoWallet (Korvalut) or other wallets instead of MetaMask.

  • This wallet supports Bitcoin and has a slightly different interface.
  • The setup process is similar to MetaMask.

Over time, you’ll likely need multiple wallets:

  • One for Ethereum/DeFi (MetaMask)
  • One for Bitcoin (e.g., Bitcoin Core or hardware wallet)
  • One hardware wallet for long-term cold storage

💡 Never rely on a single wallet. A diversified wallet setup is safer and more practical.

What’s Next​

Now that you’ve set up MetaMask:

  • In the next lesson, we’ll explain networks:
    • What they are
    • How they differ
    • How to configure MetaMask properly for multiple blockchains and DeFi tools

Disclaimer: These materials are created for educational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice.