How to Set Up Your First Wallet in 10 Minutes
Goal: Leave this page with a brand‑new, safely‑backed‑up crypto wallet you control 100 %.
Who it’s for: Complete beginners who’ve never touched a wallet before.
Time required: ~10 minutes.
1 • Why This Matters — The Problem in 60 Seconds
Right now those money of yours lives in someone else’s spreadsheet (the bank). If the company freeze, crash, or change the rules, you lose access.
A wallet is a personal key to the Web3 world. Think of it like a universal key ring: it opens any blockchain door andproves you own what’s inside.
2 • Pick the Right Wallet (2 Minutes)
| Use‑case | Best for | Recommended wallet | Hook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile convenience | Daily tap‑to‑pay, NFTs on the go | Trust Wallet | Get Trust Wallet → |
| Browser dApps | DeFi, NFTs on desktop | MetaMask (Chrome/Edge/Firefox) | Install MetaMask → |
| Maximum security | Long‑term savings | Ledger Nano S Plus | Secure with Ledger → |
Not sure? Start with Trust Wallet if you’re mostly on phone, or MetaMask if you’re a laptop person. You can always upgrade to a hardware wallet later.
3 • Install & Create Wallet (5 Minutes)
A) MetaMask (Browser)
- Click “Install MetaMask” and add the extension.
- Click “Create New Wallet”.
- Set a strong password (manager > sticky note!).
- Write down the 12‑word seed phrase on paper, not digital.
- Confirm the words in order. ✔︎ You’re in!
B) Trust Wallet (Mobile)
- Download the app from the official store (link above).
- Create New Wallet → accept terms.
- Reveal 12‑word seed phrase. Write it down twice.
- Confirm the words.
- Set a 6‑digit passcode / Face ID.
🚨 NEVER: screenshot, email, or cloud‑save your seed phrase.
If someone sees it, they own your crypto.
4 • Add Your First Network (1 Minute)
MetaMask only: Ethereum is default. To access cheaper fees, add BNB Smart Chain:
- Settings → Networks → Add Network → paste the RPC data from docs.binance.org.
Trust Wallet auto‑detects major chains.
5 • Fund & Test (Optional — 2 Minutes)
- Tap “Receive” → copy your wallet address.
- Send yourself a tiny amount (Rp 20 000 worth) from an exchange like Binance (affiliate) to verify everything works.
- Wait for the confirmation (usually <1 minute on BSC).
6 • Backup Like Your Future Depends on It
- Store the paper seed phrase in two separate physical spots (e.g., bedroom + parents’ house).
- Optional: engrave on a metal seed plate for fire/flood protection.
- Test a restore on a second device before you deposit serious money.
Common Rookie Mistakes
❌ Saving the seed in Google Drive
❌ Telling “support staff” your seed (it’s ALWAYS a scam)
❌ Using the same password everywhere
7 • You’re Wallet‑Official! What’s Next?
- Buy Your First Crypto → starts the Buy guide (exchange affiliates).
- Grab the Wallet Safety Checklist (PDF) → (free lead magnet; email capture)
- Book a 1‑on‑1 Wallet Setup Session (Rp 750 000 / $50) → personalised walk‑through & security hardening.
8 • FAQ
Q: Is this wallet anonymous?
A: Pseudonymous. Your address is public, but your name isn’t—unless you reveal it.
Q: What if I lose my phone/laptop?
A: Restore on any device with your seed phrase (hence the double backup!).
Q: Hardware wallet or bust?
A: Software is fine for testing. Upgrade once your balance > $1 000.
💬 Need Help?
Ping us in the Community channel or email help@web3fordummy.com.
Affiliate disclosure: Some links earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the tutorials free and ad‑light. ❤️