> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://legacy-docs.aragon.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://legacy-docs.aragon.org/developers/tools/guides/how-to-sign-with-web3-providers/set-up-metamask.md).

# Setting up a Metamask Wallet

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In this section, you will learn how to set up a Metamask wallet and how to configure it for use with the [Quick Start section](/developers/tools/the-basics/getting-started.md).
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{% hint style="success" %}
**We recommend using** [**Metamask**](https://metamask.io/) **as your Web3 wallet.**

Metamask is a browser plugin that lets you make Ethereum (and other blockchains) transactions through regular websites.
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{% hint style="warning" %}
This guide focuses on a **Chrome extension**. However, the process is similar for all browsers.
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## Getting started <a href="#getting-started" id="getting-started"></a>

Visit the [Metamask homepage](https://metamask.io/) and download the browser extension. Once it is downloaded, you should be automatically directed to a welcome page:

<figure><img src="/files/fFsdCOCZF1u3xxgvcQ8m" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Setup your Metamask account following the instructions.

Once your Metamask setup is complete, you should be redirected to your newly created Ethereum wallet:

![Metamask account](/files/SPCVh4vtFDIRXdbS3OOr)

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If you have made it this far, congratulations 🎉.
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## Account address <a href="#account-address" id="account-address"></a>

If you click on the **"three dots"** button below your account name - in our case *Account 1* - a popup will appear with your account address. It should look similar to the example below:

> **0x931D387731bBbC988B312206c74F77D004D6B84b**

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This is your public address (or public key). You can share this with other people to receive ETH or other tokens.
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## Selected networks <a href="#selected-networks" id="selected-networks"></a>

In the top right you should see a dropdown menu with ***Main Ethereum Network*** selected. With this option, you are able to interact directly with the main Ethereum blockchain.

If you click on it, a selection of other networks will be shown:

<figure><img src="/files/39sluX9VsLVrvhBIfFKJ" alt=""><figcaption><p>Drop down menu for selecting the network.</p></figcaption></figure>

## Why should you select other networks?

Before launching a project (or dapp) on the main Ethereum network, it is good practice to deploy a version to an Ethereum test network (like Rinkeby) or on other main networks (like Polygon or Harmony) with low-cost fees to save on costs for transaction fees.

### The benefits of using a test net

The main reason for using a test net ETH is that it can be obtained without having to pay real money. This gives developers and the community a chance to iron out any problems before real money is involved.

#### There are four test nets:

* Ropsten
* Kovan
* Rinkeby
* Goerli

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**At this stage don't worry about the differences between these networks.** All you need to know is that they simulate Ethereum and can be used without having to pay real money.
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### Using private networks

Finally, you can also interact with private Ethereum networks by selecting **Localhost 8545**. Private in this case doesn't mean more secure. It just means that the nodes are not connected to the main or test network nodes. **Perfect for rapid experimentation and testing.**

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Remember that if you want to use different networks, you need to set up your wallet and load your wallet with enough funds for paying the transaction fees.
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