Complete guide: how to download the browser extension, set up your wallet, manage crypto and NFTs, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Phantom is a user-friendly wallet focused on Solana (and expanding ecosystem support). Installing the browser extension takes just a few clicks. Below you'll find step-by-step instructions for Chrome/Chromium-based browsers, Firefox and Edge, plus tips for verification and recovery.
The steps are similar: visit the Firefox Add-ons site, search for Phantom, and add the extension. If you use a different Chromium-based browser, the Chrome Web Store flow will usually work the same.
Always verify you are installing the official Phantom extension — check the publisher name, number of users/reviews, and links from the official Phantom website before installing.
Below are 10 official Phantom links. They’re styled to be colorful so you can spot them easily in the article.
After installing the extension, click the Phantom icon and choose Create New Wallet. Phantom will generate a secret recovery phrase (typically 12 or 24 words depending on the version). Write these words down on paper and store them securely — this is the ONLY way to recover your wallet if your device is lost.
Choose Restore from seed phrase in the Phantom setup and enter your seed words exactly in order. Phantom will restore your accounts and associated token balances from the blockchain.
Phantom supports multiple accounts within the same wallet — useful for separating funds, testing, or managing NFTs in different collections.
Receiving is as simple as copying your public address and sharing it. Sending requires confirming on the Phantom popup and paying the native chain fee (for Solana, a small SOL fee).
If a token doesn't appear automatically, use the Add Token option and paste the token's mint address. Always verify token contracts from an official source.
Phantom displays NFTs you own and allows you to view details and links to marketplaces. For transfers, confirm recipient addresses carefully — NFT transfers are irreversible.
Legitimate Phantom prompts appear within the extension UI. Never enter your seed phrase on a website, and be suspicious of any site asking to connect immediately after loading a suspicious URL.
For maximum security, use a hardware wallet alongside Phantom (where supported). This keeps private keys off your computer and requires physical confirmation of transactions.
Keep at least two offline backups of your seed phrase in separate secure locations. Consider using a metal backup plate for durability.
When a dApp requests connection, Phantom will show a permission prompt. Review requested permissions and avoid granting unlimited access when possible.
For development, Phantom lets you point to custom RPC endpoints and switch to devnet/testnet networks. Use this for testing transactions before going live.
Developers can use Phantom with web3 libraries to sign and send transactions. Consult the official developer docs for code examples and best practices.
// Example (pseudo): connect
const phantom = await window.solana.connect();
const pubkey = phantom.publicKey.toString();
console.log('Connected:', pubkey);