This short guide covers installation, account setup, security best practices, sending & receiving tokens, connecting to decentralized apps (dApps), and troubleshooting. Follow the steps carefully and keep your recovery phrase private.
Official site: phantom.app • Docs: docs.phantom.app • Support: help.phantom.app
Phantom is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet primarily used for the Solana ecosystem. It stores private keys locally on your device and lets you manage tokens, NFTs, and connect to Solana-based decentralized apps. Non-custodial means you control your keys — not an exchange or company.
Phantom has a clear interface, browser extension and mobile apps, native NFT support, and quick dApp integrations. If you interact with Solana projects or marketplaces, Phantom is one of the most common wallets you’ll encounter.
Learn more: Phantom wiki • Downloads: Download page
Decide whether to use the browser extension (Chrome/Edge/Brave) or the mobile app (iOS/Android). For desktop dApp interactions, the extension is typical. For on-the-go management, use the mobile app.
When opening Phantom you’ll be offered two choices: create a new wallet or restore an existing one using a recovery phrase. Only restore if you already have an existing seed phrase.
Choose “Create new wallet,” set an app password (optional on mobile), and keep going until Phantom shows your recovery phrase. This phrase is the single most important item — store it offline and never share it.
If you choose “Restore wallet,” enter the recovery phrase exactly as provided. Be careful with spacing, order and spelling — seed phrases are precise.
Never store your recovery phrase in cloud storage, email, or screenshots. Write it on paper, or use a metal backup solution for long-term durability. Treat it as cash — anyone with it can access your funds.
Official security guidance: Phantom security docs.
To receive, copy your wallet address (starts with a capital letter) or scan the QR in mobile. Share the address only — never the recovery phrase. Verify the address after pasting when tokens arrive.
Click “Send,” paste the recipient address, confirm the token and amount, check any network fee, and approve. Small test transfers first are a safe habit.
When a dApp requests a connection, Phantom will show a popup to approve. Confirm only if you're on the real dApp website and the request matches your intended action.
Useful links: Solscan, Solana Explorer.
If a transaction is stuck, check the network status and transaction on Solana Explorer. If the extension is missing after an update, reinstall from the official site. For account recovery issues, double-check the exact recovery phrase words and spacing.
Always confirm URLs and official pages. Start with small transactions, back up securely, and contact official support only through confirmed channels above.