# 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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**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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This guide focuses on a **Chrome extension**. However, the process is similar for all browsers.
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## Getting started
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:
Setup your Metamask account following the instructions.
Once your Metamask setup is complete, you should be redirected to your newly created Ethereum wallet:
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If you have made it this far, congratulations π.
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## Account address
If you click on the **"three dots"** button below your account name -βin our case *Account 1*β-βa 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
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:
Drop down menu for selecting the network.
## 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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