Guide on How to Switch Network in MetaMask

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MetaMask is more than just a cryptocurrency wallet—it’s a gateway to the decentralized web. Whether you're exploring Ethereum dapps, testing on a testnet, or interacting with Layer-2 networks, knowing how to switch and add networks in MetaMask is essential for navigating the expanding Web3 ecosystem.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about changing networks in MetaMask, including how to add EVM-compatible chains and Layer-2 solutions with ease.

Understanding MetaMask Network Switching

By default, MetaMask is configured to the Ethereum Mainnet, making it the starting point for most users. While Ethereum remains a hub for innovation in decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and gaming, high gas fees have driven interest toward alternative networks.

👉 Discover how to seamlessly connect to high-performance blockchains today.

Switching networks allows you to interact with different blockchain ecosystems—each offering unique benefits such as lower transaction costs, faster speeds, or specialized use cases—without needing multiple wallets.

On desktop, MetaMask functions as a browser extension, while mobile users can access full functionality via the dedicated app. This guide focuses on the desktop experience, but the steps are nearly identical across platforms.

How to Change Your Active Network in MetaMask

Changing your network is simple and takes only a few clicks:

  1. Open your MetaMask extension.
  2. Click the current network name at the top (e.g., "Ethereum Mainnet").
  3. A dropdown menu will appear listing available networks.
  4. Select your desired network (e.g., Polygon, Binance Smart Chain).

If the network you're looking for isn't listed, don’t worry—you can add it manually or let MetaMask auto-detect it when connecting through trusted dapps.

Pro Tip: Always double-check the network name and details before confirming any switch. Security starts with awareness.

Adding EVM-Compatible Chains Automatically

One of MetaMask’s most user-friendly features is its ability to automatically detect and add EVM-compatible networks. When you interact with a decentralized application (dapp) built on a non-default chain, MetaMask can prompt you to add that network with one click.

For example:

Despite this convenience, manual confirmation is required before the network becomes active. This safeguard helps prevent accidental interactions with malicious or misconfigured chains.

Manually Adding a Custom Network

If automatic detection fails—or if you're setting up a less common chain—you can manually input network details.

Step-by-Step: Add a New Network

  1. Open MetaMask and click the network dropdown.
  2. Select “Add Network” at the bottom of the list.
  3. Choose “Add a Network Manually”.

  4. Fill in the following fields:

    • Network Name: Use an identifiable name (e.g., "Polygon Mainnet").
    • New RPC URL: The remote procedure call endpoint for the blockchain.
    • Chain ID: A unique identifier for the network (must match exactly).
    • Currency Symbol (optional): The native token ticker (e.g., MATIC, BNB).
    • Block Explorer URL (optional): Link to view transaction history (e.g., Polygonscan).
  5. Click “Save”.

Once saved, the network will appear in your network selector for future use.

⚠️ Critical Reminder: Always verify Chain ID and RPC URLs from official sources. Incorrect data can lead to lost funds or failed transactions.

Modifying an Existing Network

Need to update a misconfigured RPC or switch explorers? You can edit any custom network:

  1. Go to Settings > Networks.
  2. Find and click on the network you want to modify.
  3. Update any field as needed.
  4. Click “Save”.

Note: You cannot edit pre-loaded default networks like Ethereum Mainnet directly—you must remove and re-add them as custom entries if changes are required.

Supported Networks: EVM Chains & Layer-2 Solutions

MetaMask supports all Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible blockchains, including Layer-1 alternatives and Layer-2 scaling solutions. Below is a curated list of popular networks you can add.

Polygon (MATIC)

Binance Smart Chain (BSC)

Avalanche C-Chain

Arbitrum One

Optimism

Fantom Opera

👉 Access fast, low-cost transactions on leading EVM chains with confidence.

Other compatible networks include Cronos, Moonriver, Aurora, Harmony, Fuse, and Celo—all supporting seamless integration with MetaMask.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use MetaMask with non-EVM blockchains like Bitcoin or Solana?

No. MetaMask only supports EVM-compatible networks. For Bitcoin or Solana, you’ll need dedicated wallets like Ledger Live, Phantom, or others designed for those ecosystems.

Why doesn’t my dapp recognize the network even after adding it?

Ensure that:

Try refreshing the page after switching networks.

Is it safe to add custom networks?

Yes—if done correctly. Only add networks using verified details from official project websites or trusted sources. Avoid copying RPC URLs from forums or social media.

What happens if I send tokens to the wrong network?

Sending assets to an unsupported or incorrect network can result in permanent loss. Always confirm both the sending and receiving networks match before initiating transfers.

How do testnets work in MetaMask?

Testnets simulate real networks using “fake” cryptocurrency. They’re ideal for developers and users testing dapps without risking real funds. Common ones include Goerli (Ethereum), Mumbai (Polygon), and Fuji (Avalanche).

Can I remove a custom network from MetaMask?

Yes. Go to Settings > Networks, find the network, and click “Delete.” Default networks cannot be removed but can be hidden via settings.

Final Thoughts

Switching and adding networks in MetaMask unlocks access to thousands of dapps across diverse blockchains. From Ethereum’s robust DeFi landscape to high-speed Layer-2 rollups like Arbitrum and Optimism, your wallet becomes a universal passport to Web3.

With proper care in verifying network details and leveraging automated tools where possible, managing multiple chains becomes straightforward—even for beginners.

👉 Start exploring multi-chain opportunities securely with advanced wallet integration tools.

By mastering these fundamentals, you position yourself at the forefront of decentralized innovation—ready to navigate, transact, and thrive across ecosystems.

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