How to Add Different Blockchains to MetaMask?

If you’re exploring the crypto space, you’ve probably heard of MetaMask, one of the most popular crypto wallets. It supports Ethereum by default, but did you know you can add different blockchains to MetaMask manually?

This allows you to access other networks like Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, Avalanche, and more, all from the same wallet interface. This article will help you expand MetaMask’s functionality. Let’s get started with adding new blockchains to your wallet!

Why Add Different Blockchains to MetaMask?

By default, MetaMask is set up for the Ethereum Mainnet. However, many decentralized apps (dApps), DeFi protocols, and NFT projects live on other networks. Adding new blockchains gives you:

• Access to more dApps and ecosystems
  
• Lower gas fees (especially on networks like BNB Chain and Polygon)
  
• Better flexibility for managing multi-chain assets

Steps to Add Different Blockchains to MetaMask

Let’s look at how you can add different blockchains to MetaMask safely and easily.

Step 1: Install MetaMask (If You Haven’t Already)

1. Visit the official MetaMask website (metamask.io) and download the extension or app.
2. Click “Install” or “Get” and follow the prompts to add it to your browser or device.
3. Create a new wallet by setting a strong password and saving your 12-word seed phrase securely (never share this with anyone!).
4. Log in to your MetaMask wallet once it’s set up.

If you already have MetaMask installed, simply open it and proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Access the Network Menu

Click on the network drop-down menu at the top of the MetaMask interface. It will likely display “Ethereum Mainnet” by default.

Step 3: Select “Add Network”

Scroll down the dropdown menu and click on the “Add Network” button. In some versions, you might see an option like “Custom RPC” or “Add a network manually.”

Step 4: Enter Network Details

You will be presented with a form asking for the network details. The required information typically includes:

• Network Name: A descriptive name for the blockchain (e.g., “Binance Smart Chain Mainnet”).
• New RPC URL: The URL of a node that serves as an access point to the blockchain network.
• Chain ID: A unique numerical identifier for the blockchain.
• Currency Symbol (Optional but Recommended): The native currency symbol of the blockchain (e.g., “BNB” for Binance Smart Chain).
• Block Explorer URL (Optional but Recommended): A link to the blockchain’s explorer, where you can view transactions and other network activity.

Enter the details for your chosen blockchain into the MetaMask form, then click “Save.” MetaMask will now connect to that network.

Switching Between Blockchains on MetaMask

Once you’ve added a new blockchain, you can switch to it anytime:

1. Click the network drop-down again.
2. Select the newly added network (e.g., “Polygon Mainnet” or “Binance Smart Chain Mainnet”).
3. MetaMask will update, and your wallet will now display assets and interact with dApps on that blockchain.

Repeat Step 3 for any additional blockchains you want to add.

You can Add Custom Tokens; It’s Optional!

After you add different blockchains to MetaMask, you might want to manage tokens specific to that network (e.g., BEP-20 tokens on BSC or ERC-20 tokens on Polygon). To do this:

1. Switch to the desired network.
2. Click “Import Tokens” or “Add Token” in MetaMask.
3. Enter the token’s contract address (available on the blockchain’s explorer or project website) and confirm.

This step ensures you can view and transact with the native tokens of the new blockchain.

Read also: How to transfer money from blockchain to binance?

Important Considerations

• Verify Network Details: Always use accurate information from official sources when adding a new blockchain to avoid errors or loss of funds.
  
• Security: Only connect MetaMask to trusted websites. Avoid approving network changes from unknown or suspicious sources.
  
• Gas Fees: Each network has its own native token for gas (e.g., ETH, BNB, MATIC, AVAX). Make sure you have enough of the correct token to cover transaction fees.
  
• EVM Compatibility: MetaMask supports EVM-compatible networks. For non-EVM chains like Solana or Cardano, use a separate wallet. Emerging features like MetaMask Snaps may support these in the future, but they’re still under development as of April 2025.

Conclusion

Learning how to add different blockchains to MetaMask opens up a world of possibilities in the crypto space. From Binance Smart Chain to Avalanche, you can explore diverse networks and their unique features with just a few clicks. 

Follow this guide, and you’ll be navigating multiple blockchains like a pro in no time. Have questions or a favorite blockchain to recommend? We’re here to help with your blockchain customer care needs.