Your Safepal Wallet Browser Extension Installation Steps and Key Functions
Install the Safepal Browser Extension directly from the official Chrome Web Store or Safepal’s website to begin. This step ensures you avoid fraudulent copies and get the authentic software. The process takes under a minute, and you’ll see the Safepal icon appear in your browser’s toolbar, ready for the next steps.
You now have a choice: create a brand new wallet or connect an existing one. For a new wallet, the extension will generate a 12-word secret recovery phrase. Write this phrase down on paper and store it physically; never save it digitally. This phrase is the absolute key to your assets. If you’re importing, you can use your existing Safepal seed phrase, a private key, or even connect a Safepal hardware wallet for enhanced security.
Once set up, the extension’s interface provides clear access to your multi-chain portfolio. You can view tokens across more than 100 blockchains like Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Polygon without switching networks manually. Sending assets is straightforward: enter an address, select the chain, and confirm. The extension also displays current gas fees on Ethereum, helping you choose the right moment to transact.
Interacting with decentralized applications becomes seamless. Visit a platform like Uniswap or PancakeSwap, and the extension will automatically prompt you to connect your wallet. You can approve transactions directly from pop-up windows, reviewing all details before signing. This integration turns your browser into a direct portal for DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 services.
For security, configure the extension’s auto-lock timer and establish a strong password. The built-in token approval checker is a useful tool; it lets you review and revoke permissions you’ve granted to dApps, limiting potential risks. Remember, the extension is a non-custodial tool, meaning you alone control your keys and, consequently, your funds.
Installing the Extension and Creating Your First Wallet
Open your preferred browser–Chrome, Brave, or Firefox–and visit the official SafePal website. Navigate to the ‘Downloads’ section and select the browser extension link. This will take you directly to the Chrome Web Store or a similar verified platform. Click the Add to Browser button and confirm the installation when prompted. The SafePal icon will appear in your browser’s toolbar once it’s ready.
Click the new SafePal icon to launch the extension. You’ll see two clear options: Create Wallet and Import Wallet. Since this is your first time, select ‘Create Wallet’. The system will immediately ask you to set a strong password. This password encrypts your extension’s local data; choose a unique combination you haven’t used elsewhere.
Next, you will see your Secret Recovery Phrase. This 12 or 24-word phrase is the master key to your funds. Write each word down in the exact order on the provided offline backup card. Never save this phrase digitally–no screenshots, photos, or cloud documents. Confirm you’ve stored it securely by selecting the checkbox, then proceed to verify the phrase by clicking the words in the correct sequence.
After verification, your wallet is active. The main dashboard will display your total asset balance, which will be zero initially. Your first public wallet address for receiving crypto is now ready. You can copy it by clicking the address displayed under the asset list. Use this address to receive tokens from an exchange or another wallet.
Before funding your wallet, explore the extension’s security settings. Enable features like transaction signing and phishing detection for added protection. Your wallet is now set up and secure, ready for you to explore decentralized applications directly from your browser.
Connecting to dApps and Managing Your Assets
Open your Safepal extension and click the ‘Browser’ icon to launch the built-in Web3 browser. This browser is designed for secure dApp interactions.
Navigate directly to your chosen dApp’s website. Look for a ‘Connect Wallet’ button, typically in the top-right corner. A connection prompt will appear; select ‘Safepal’ from the list of wallet options. The extension will request your approval for the connection, showing the dApp’s required permissions. Review these and confirm to establish the link.
For asset management, your main dashboard in the extension provides a clear overview. You can add new tokens by clicking ‘Add Token’ and pasting the contract address. Always verify the token’s name and symbol match the official project details to avoid scams.
To send funds, select the asset and click ‘Send’. Enter the recipient address carefully–consider using the address book feature for frequent contacts. Double-check the network; sending Ethereum-based ERC-20 tokens on the BNB Smart Chain will result in permanent loss.
Review transaction fees, displayed as ‘Gas Fee’ or ‘Network Fee’, before finalizing any transfer. You can often adjust the fee speed; a higher fee processes faster. After confirming, you can track the transaction status on the ‘History’ tab.
Regularly use the ‘Swap’ feature within the extension to exchange assets. It aggregates rates from multiple decentralized exchanges to find you a good price. Confirm the exchange rate and any slippage tolerance you set before executing the swap.
Keep your portfolio organized by creating custom lists for different asset types, like ‘DeFi’ or ‘NFTs’, using the portfolio management tools. This helps you track performance for specific strategies.
Setting Up Security Options and Transaction Approvals
Activate the “Transaction Signature” feature in your SafePal extension settings immediately. This requires you to physically confirm every transaction on your linked SafePal hardware wallet, blocking any remote malware from approving payments without your knowledge.
Set a strong, unique password for the extension itself, different from your email or other accounts. This password encrypts your local data and is required each time you start the browser.
Navigate to the approval settings and define a specific daily transaction limit for each network you use, like BNB Chain or Ethereum. If a transaction exceeds this amount, the system will require additional verification, giving you a final checkpoint.
Bookmark the official SafePal extension page in your browser. Always use this bookmark to access the extension, which prevents phishing sites from mimicking the interface and stealing your credentials.
For every new website connection request, the extension will ask for permission. Scrutinize these requests carefully; only connect to applications you fully trust. You can manage and revoke these connections later in the “Connected Sites” section of the extension.
Write down your secret recovery phrase on the provided steel card or other durable material. Store it offline in a secure location, separate from your computer. The extension will never ask for this phrase online.
Regularly check the “Security” tab within the extension for active sessions and authorized devices. If you see an unfamiliar login location or device, you can revoke its access instantly with one click.
Before signing any transaction, double-check the recipient address, token amount, and network fee directly in the extension’s pop-up. A common tactic involves malware swapping a legitimate address for a hacker’s at the last moment.
Q&A:
I downloaded the extension, but the setup screen is asking for a “Secret Recovery Phrase” or to “Create New Wallet.” Which option should I choose?
If this is your first cryptocurrency wallet, you must select “Create New Wallet.” The extension will then generate a new 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase for you. This phrase is the master key to your funds. Write it down on paper, store it securely offline, and never share it or type it into any other website. If you are restoring an existing SafePal wallet or a wallet from another service that uses a 12 or 24-word phrase, then you would choose the first option and enter your phrase.
Can I use the SafePal browser extension without the SafePal hardware wallet?
Yes, absolutely. The SafePal browser extension functions as a standalone software wallet. You can create a new wallet within it, send, receive, swap tokens, and connect to decentralized applications (dApps) directly. The hardware wallet is an optional, separate product that provides an extra layer of security by keeping your private keys offline. The extension can integrate with the hardware wallet if you own one, but it is not required for basic use.
How do I connect the SafePal extension to a website like a decentralized exchange?
First, ensure your wallet in the extension is unlocked. When you visit a supported dApp website, look for a “Connect Wallet” button, usually in the top corner. Click it, and a pop-up will show a list of wallet providers. Select “SafePal” from this list. Your browser should then trigger the SafePal extension to open a connection request window. Review the permissions the site is asking for and confirm the connection. Once connected, the website can interact with your wallet’s public address for transactions, which you will still need to approve manually for each action.
What happens if I clear my browser data or use a different computer?
Clearing your browser’s cache, cookies, or history will remove the locally stored data for the SafePal extension, effectively logging you out. To regain access, you will need to re-install the extension and use your Secret Recovery Phrase to restore your wallet. This is why protecting your recovery phrase is critical. Your actual assets are stored on the blockchain, not in the browser. As long as you have your recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on any compatible device or browser.
Are there fees for swapping tokens inside the extension?
Yes. The swap feature uses decentralized exchange aggregators to find trade rates. You will incur two types of costs: a network fee (gas fee) paid to the blockchain (like BNB Chain or Ethereum) to process the transaction, and a small service fee for the swap itself, which is included in the final exchange rate you see before confirming. The network fee varies based on how busy the network is. The extension shows you the full transaction details, including the estimated fee, before you approve the swap.
I installed the Safepal browser extension, but I don’t see my existing wallet from my hardware device. How do I connect it?
You need to use the “Connect Hardware Wallet” feature within the extension. The process doesn’t automatically import your wallet; it establishes a secure link. First, open the extension and click “Connect Wallet.” Then, select “Hardware Wallet” and choose your Safepal device model. You’ll be shown a connection guide: typically, you need to unlock your hardware device, go to its settings to enable browser connection or WebUSB, and then connect it via USB. The extension will then detect it, allowing you to select the specific wallet addresses you want to interact with in your browser. Your private keys never leave the hardware device.