Warlands Academy: What is Metamask and why is it used?

One of the main tools to connect the user with the crypto world are Wallets. In Warlands, besides being able to use the Velas Wallet, Metamask is the wallet that connects the user with the blockchain part of the game. Today, in this first post of Warlands Academy, we talk about this wallet, probably the most famous among the browser wallets.

What is Metamask?

Metamask is a cryptocurrency wallet that can be used in browsers such as Chrome and Firefox. But not only that, because it is also an extension that can be used in those browsers.

What would Metamask serve as an extension? Well, it would work as a kind of bridge link between normal browsers and the Ethereum blockchain.

Yes, Metamask is associated with the Ethereum network. And is that the blockchain of this cryptocurrency allows its users to create their own applications, called dApps. In addition, Ethereum also allows its users to write the guidelines for transactions carried out through smart contracts. So MetaMask can be used to store keys only for Ethereum cryptocurrencies.

As you well know, the cryptocurrency of the Ethereum project is called Ether. In turn, most of the tokens built on the Ethereum blockchain are called ERC20 tokens because they follow the rules that Ethereum developers have set for creating new tokens. Therefore, the MetaMask wallet can be used to store keys for Ether and ERC20 tokens in web browsers such as Chrome and Firefox. It also allows users to browse the Ethereum blockchain from a standard browser.

How does MetaMask work?

This platform uses the 3.js library to have a clearer information transaction between the dapps and the browser. The dapps first recognize Metamask and then enable it for the user to start using it. At this point he can do any action, either buying and selling tokens or any other service that is available. However, before enjoying some of these actions a previous payment must be made using Ethereum or by the modality indicated.

This interaction that occurs between the user and Metamask is completely transparent. Let’s remember that one of the characteristics of dapps is that they are not regulated by any central hub, which means that no one will be able to read or decipher the information that is being sent. This is an absolute change compared to instant messaging websites. In these, messages are first sent to a server and then sent to the recipient, who can do whatever they want with the information.

How to install MetaMask?

Installing MetaMask is very simple. As it is an extension, it is only necessary to go to the store of the browser in question and download it. It is important that this is done from the official store, as many cases of information theft by clicking on links with misleading offers have been reported. This should be applied by the users of the other browsers in order to protect the information and make the game as difficult as possible for cybercriminals. This creates a culture in the customers of other similar services.

Once downloaded, all aspects of the contract will be read and the installation will start immediately. Subsequently, a tab will open indicating that it has been installed and is ready for use. You can now enjoy all its benefits. It is a simple extension, so you don’t have to worry about the weight it may generate for your computer. It quickly adapts to the main browser to go almost unnoticed. At this point you can open the dapps of your choice without any problem.

Advantages of using MetaMask

Thanks to MetaMask, Ethereum dapps had a significant boom. It facilitated access to millions of people who had trouble accessing some of these dapps. By using the 3.JS web library, it allows you to take full advantage of all the potential Ethereum has to offer without the threat of a regulatory body. In addition, it has the ability to store private passwords and thus have greater control when handling large amounts of information. This avoids the risk of a possible ‘hack’.

Metamask has enabled the creation of several virtual wallets through HD. So now the user can create several accounts and be able to exchange in a simpler way. All these advantages are obtained once the extension is installed in the browser of choice and access the dapps as never before. In this way, the platform has gained the trust of users, who now use this tool to be able to store their tokens in a more secure way.

Disadvantages of using MetaMask

The main disadvantage of MetaMask is that since it is an extension, search engines can track all the information exchanged on the platform. This ‘plugin’ is characterized by having a high level of protection, although if there is any vulnerability in the browser, it would mean a huge risk for the user. In other words, the user could lose part of the information stored in it. In addition, the program is only designed to interact with smart contracts, tying the hands of the client who wants to do any other action.

The security scheme presented by Metamask has a weakness. This is because it depends on external networks for its normal operation, which generates some distrust in users. For those who are not very technological, it could be difficult at the beginning, even though it does not require large platforms to install it. Despite this, metamask offers many features that any cryptocurrency lover should appreciate. With Metamask you can exchange and store your tokens with greater peace of mind than with other options.