MetaMask – Identity Ethereum dApps Web Browser Chrome Plugin?

MetaMask is a Chrome plugin that lets you add Ethereum to your browser. Find out everything you need to know about MetaMask today in our review.

What Is MetaMask?

MetaMask describes itself as “a bridge that allows you to visit the distributed web of tomorrow in your browser today.” Using MetaMask, you can run Ethereum dApps right in your browser without running a full Ethereum node. In other words, it’s an easy way to get Ethereum in your browser.

The extension is currently available as a Chrome extension. Eventually, the company plans to introduce the platform for Firefox and other browsers (including Brave). However, MetaMask is ready for Chrome users to start using today.

One of the core features of MetaMask is a secure identity vault, which lets you manage your identities on different sites and sign blockchain transactions.

The overall goal of MetaMask is simple:

“Our mission is to make Ethereum as easy to use for as many people as possible.”

With MetaMask, you have an easy and accessible way to access the blockchain network through a user-friendly interface. There’s no need to set up your own node on your local machine to interact with the blockchain. It’s all done through the Chrome extension.

You can download the Chrome plugin for free. There is a Firefox version, although the developer claims that it’s buggy, and it’s still in rough form. However, you can take it for a test run by following the installation instructions they provide.

How Does MetaMask Work?

MetaMask works by injecting a web3 JavaScript object into each page. That script doesn’t change the website – it just gives it access to the network in order to function properly.

When you install MetaMask, you’ll notice that the software asks for a few permissions – including the ability to read and change all your data on the websites you visit. Obviously, that would make anyone nervous – but that permission is requested just because of the web3 Javascript.

After installing the Chrome extension, you’ll be asked to create a vault. To create a vault, you’ll be asked to save a certain number of seed words. Those seed words are used to regenerate your vault if needed. Store the seed words somewhere safe. Obviously, this is similar to the security features you see on other wallets.

Obviously, MetaMask is still in the early development stages, so you shouldn’t store large amounts of ETH in your wallet right now. The developers specifically recommend against it.

After you’ve setup your vault, you’ll be taken to your wallet. The MetaMask wallet is a clean, simple wallet with a colorful UI.

You can change the nickname of your wallet, view your public key, copy your wallet address to the clipboard, export your private keys, pick your current network (like the Main Ethereum Network or the Modern Test Network), or switch accounts.

The main page of the wallet features a list of transactions. You can use MetaMask to easily send Ether to another address.

MetaMask will even protect you against illegitimate transactions. Before a transaction is executed, you’ll see a notification pop-up where you can confirm the transaction and examine relevant details.

Who’s Behind MetaMask?

MetaMask was created by developers Aaron Davis and Dan Finlay. The two developers introduced MetaMask in July 2016.

MetaMask Conclusion

MetaMask is a browser plugin that lets you access Ethereum decentralized apps without running a full Ethereum node. All you do is install a basic Chrome extension, then begin to interact with Ethereum. You can use MetaMask as a wallet, or send and receive money using its easy user-interface.

Right now, MetaMask is only available for Chrome. However, future releases are planned for Firefox, the Brave browser, and others.

Learn more about MetaMask or download the extension today by visiting MetaMask.io!