Welcome to the world of Web3! This guide will walk you through setting up your first cryptocurrency
wallet with MetaMask, securely storing your seed phrase, and obtaining test ETH from a faucet.
1
Installing MetaMask
MetaMask is a browser extension that allows you to interact with the Ethereum blockchain.
Once installed, click on the MetaMask icon in your browser extensions
Security Tip: Always download MetaMask from the official website or trusted
app stores. Never install from links provided in emails or messages.
2
Creating Your Wallet
After installing MetaMask, you'll need to create a new wallet:
Click "Create a new wallet"
Create a secure password (this is different from your seed phrase)
Watch the brief security video
Click "Reveal Secret Recovery Phrase"
IMPORTANT: Your seed phrase (also called Secret Recovery Phrase) is the ONLY
way to recover your wallet if you lose access. Anyone who has your seed phrase has complete
control over your wallet and funds.
3
Securely Storing Your Seed Phrase
Your seed phrase typically consists of 12 words in a specific order. Here's how to store it
securely:
Example: apple banana cherry diamond elephant forest guitar history island journey kitchen lemon
Best Practices for Seed Phrase Storage:
Write it down on paper (multiple copies)
Store in secure, waterproof, fireproof locations
Consider using a metal backup solution for durability
Never store it digitally (no photos, no cloud storage, no email)
Never share it with anyone, including "support staff"
Warning: Many phishing scams target your seed phrase. No legitimate service
will ever ask for your complete seed phrase.
4
Adding Holesky Testnet to MetaMask
After installing MetaMask, you'll need to add the Holesky testnet manually. Here are the network
details:
Network Name: Holesky
ChainID: 17000 (0x4268)
RPC URL: https://1rpc.io/holesky
Block Explorer: https://holesky.etherscan.io/
5
Getting Test ETH from a Faucet
Before using real cryptocurrency, it's good to practice with test networks and test ETH:
In MetaMask, click on the network dropdown at the top (likely says "Ethereum Mainnet")
Select "Holesky Test Network" (you may need to add it from Settings > Networks)
Copy your wallet address by clicking on your account name