How to Add Networks to MetaMask
Learn how to add custom blockchain networks to your MetaMask wallet. This guide covers adding popular networks like BNB Chain, Polygon, Arbitrum, and more - with ready-to-use configurations.
Referral Code
TRADEOFF20
Check TRADEOFF20 fee terms before your first trade
Why Add Custom Networks?
Lower Fees
L2s like Arbitrum & Base offer 10-100x cheaper transactions
More DApps
Access DEXs, NFT markets, and DeFi on multiple chains
Faster Transactions
Some networks confirm transactions in under 1 second
How to Add a Network
Open MetaMask
Click the MetaMask extension icon in your browser toolbar
Open Network Menu
Click the network dropdown at the top (shows "Ethereum Mainnet" by default)
Add Network
Click "Add network" button at the bottom of the dropdown
Choose Method
Select "Add a network manually" or search from the popular networks list
Enter Details
Fill in Network Name, RPC URL, Chain ID, Symbol, and Block Explorer
Save & Switch
Click "Save" to add the network and switch to it
Quick Method: Use ChainList
ChainList.org lets you add networks with one click. Simply connect your wallet and click "Add to MetaMask" on any network.
Visit ChainList.orgPopular Networks & Configurations
BNB Smart Chain
Chain ID: 56
BNB Smart Chain
https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org
56
BNB
https://bscscan.com
Testnets for Developers
Security Warning
- Only use RPC URLs from official project documentation or trusted sources like ChainList
- Double-check Chain IDs before adding - wrong IDs can cause lost transactions
- Be cautious of phishing sites that mimic legitimate network setup pages
Troubleshooting Common Issues
❌ Network not switching
Try disconnecting and reconnecting your wallet, or restart your browser. Check if the RPC endpoint is responding.
❌ Balance shows 0
You may not have tokens on this network yet. You need to bridge assets from another chain or receive tokens on this specific network.
❌ Transaction pending forever
The network may be congested or RPC may be slow. Try a different RPC endpoint or increase gas price.
❌ "Could not fetch chain ID"
The RPC URL may be incorrect or the endpoint is down. Verify the URL or try an alternative RPC endpoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Referral Code
TRADEOFF20
Check TRADEOFF20 fee terms before your first trade
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