MetaMask login with private key- A complete guide
If you have just begun using MetaMask, then you might have some queries in your mind regarding its usage. So, in today's post, I will be sharing some comprehensive details regarding one common query of the users. Yes, we shall take a stance at "MetaMask login with private key" and then we'll move ahead with learning different aspects of using a private key in MetaMask.
What is a private key in MetaMask?
If you are thinking that private keys on MetaMask are the same as the secret recovery phrase, then you are probably mistaken. These two are separate information pieces. And, anyone who is having a basic idea of crypto trading and crypto wallets would be able to understand what I am saying. So, without further ado, let us now jump into learning the basic concept of what a private key is and whether or not MetaMask login with private key is possible.
To put it short, there are different accounts in a MetaMask wallet and each account has its own unique private key giving you access to the funds that are stored on that account. Meanwhile, the seed phrase can be used to access the whole wallet.
Can you log into MetaMask with private key?
If you have been completely logged out of your MetaMask wallet, then logging into it with the help of the private key is totally an impossible task. However, instead of MetaMask login with private key, you can choose to sign into your account using the password that you had set during the wallet setup process.
But, at the same time, if you are unable to access an account within the wallet, then you can definitely use the private keys to gain access to that specific account.
How to access a MetaMask account with a private key?
On the MetaMask extension:
Sign into your MetaMask wallet as you usually do
Now, locate that circular favicon icon at the top and select it
After this, pick "Import Account" from the given list
Now, you will see the import page on your screen
Here, you need to paste your private keys and select the "Import" option
Once done with that, your account would be added with an "Imported" tag
On the mobile:
Open the wallet app for a quick MetaMask login with private key
Now, sign in to your wallet by feeding the correct password in
Followed by this, select the Hamburger icon present at the top-left corner
Now, tap on your account name to open up the account selection menu
Next up, hit the "Import an Account" option
It's time to paste the private key that you wish to import and select "Import"
Learn to export your MetaMask private key
If you wish to access one of your MetaMask accounts or wish to do a MetaMask login with private key then you need to make sure that you have this private key with you. In case you do not know the method to do so, then you can follow the steps explained below to understand the whole process:
First, you need to open the MetaMask extension on your device
After this, select the MetaMask identicon present at the top-right corner
Furthermore, you need to choose the account that you wish to export
When you are on the account page, select the three dots menu
And then choose the "Account Details" option > "Export Private Key"
At this stage, you should enter your wallet password and choose "Confirm"
Now, your private key will be revealed and you can copy it from here
Once you are done copying this private key, select the "Done" option
Conclusion:
Though MetaMask login with private key is not possible, you can still access one of your accounts using the private key and the process for the same has been explained in the given sections. Apart from that, we have also given the details on exporting those private keys so that you can use these keys as and when needed.