How to Create a Solana Wallet (Step by Step, 2026)
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A Solana wallet is an app that holds the keys to your money. With it you can receive, send and use SOL and other tokens on the Solana network. It’s free and takes about 5 minutes.
Which wallet to pick
| Wallet | Runs on | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Phantom | Browser extension, Android, iPhone | Getting started: the most used Solana wallet |
| Solflare | Browser extension, Android, iPhone | In-app staking and pairing with hardware wallets |
Both are self-custody: only you hold the keys. Nobody, including the company, can recover your account if you lose your seed phrase.
Download the app only from the official site or your phone's official store. Fake copies show up in Google ads and app stores and steal funds.
Step by step (Phantom)
- Go to phantom.com and install the extension or app.
- Choose Create a new wallet.
- Set a password. It only protects the app on this device; it can’t recover your wallet.
- The app shows your seed phrase (12 words). Write it on paper, in order, and keep it somewhere safe. Read our guide to protecting your seed phrase.
- Confirm the words when the app asks.
- Done. Tap Receive and copy your Solana address.
Solflare works almost the same way: install, create wallet, save the phrase, confirm.
Your Solana address
It’s a string of letters and numbers, about 32 to 44 characters long. It’s safe to share: it can only receive.
- Always copy and paste the address; never type it by hand.
- Before sending, compare the first and last 4 characters.
- Send a small test amount first.
Common mistakes
- Sending on the wrong network. When withdrawing SOL from an exchange, pick the Solana (SOL) network. Another network can mean lost funds.
- Keeping the seed phrase in a photo or the cloud. Anyone who gets into your email or gallery gets your money.
- Typing your phrase into a “support” website. Real support will never ask for it.
Next step
Got a wallet? Learn how to buy SOL and send it to your wallet.