Trust Wallet Extension — a concise guide to the browser companion

What the extension does (in plain terms)

The extension acts like a gateway between your browser and Web3 services. It stores encrypted keys locally, injects account addresses into dApps when you grant permission, and facilitates transaction signing. Unlike custodial wallets, you — and only you — control the seed phrase that unlocks the accounts.

Key features at a glance

• Local key storage: private keys are encrypted on your computer, not on a remote server.
• Multiple networks: use Ethereum-compatible chains and token standards from a single interface.
• Seamless dApp connection: approve connections per-site and sign transactions when needed.
• User-friendly account management: create new wallets, import by seed phrase, and switch accounts quickly.

Getting started — setup in three focused steps

Install the extension for your browser, create or import a wallet, and secure the recovery phrase. Here are practical steps that keep you safe:

1. Install from the official source and confirm the extension ID or publisher. Avoid third-party download mirrors.
2. Create a new wallet or import using an existing 12/24-word seed phrase. Choose a strong password for the extension lock.
3. Back up the recovery phrase offline — write it down and store it in a safe, physical place. Never store your seed phrase in plain text on a cloud drive or email.

Extra tip: enable the extension’s auto-lock and set a short timeout so an unattended machine cannot be abused.

Security advice that actually helps

Security for browser wallets is layered: the extension, the host browser, and your personal practices all matter. A few practical habits make a big difference:

• Verify origins: only connect to dApps you intend to use. Check the domain and HTTPS padlock before approving a connection.
• Use a dedicated browser profile: keep the wallet extension in a clean profile without many other add-ons to reduce attack surface.
• Keep software updated: browser and extension updates often patch security issues; install them promptly.
• Test small: when interacting with a new contract, send a tiny test transaction first to confirm behavior.

How it differs from the mobile Trust Wallet

Both the mobile app and browser extension are non-custodial, but they serve different workflows. The mobile app is great for on-the-go management, QR payments, and DEX swaps; the extension is optimized for desktop dApp interactions and a smoother developer/testing workflow. Use them together by syncing the same seed phrase if you want parity across devices — but keep the seed secured.

Common tasks — quick commands and expectations

Expect the extension to ask for:

• Account access requests: dApps request to read your public address — granting this does not expose your private key.
• Transaction approvals: every outgoing transaction must be signed; the extension shows gas and recipient details for you to confirm.
• Permission revocations: if a dApp requests ongoing approvals, consider managing or revoking them via on-chain approvals tools when you’re done.

Remember: if something on the screen looks unfamiliar or asks you to sign a message with unclear intent, pause and investigate — signing a message can have lasting, account-level effects.

Troubleshooting & best practices

If a dApp won’t connect, try toggling the extension off/on, ensure you’re on the right network, and clear the site’s permissions. For stubborn issues, reinstalling the extension (after ensuring you have the correct seed backed up) can resolve corrupted states. Always export and store your backup phrase before making changes.