Navigating the world of decentralized finance (DeFi) requires a reliable and versatile wallet, and Metamask is one of the most popular choices. A fundamental skill every user must master is switching between different blockchain networks. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough for changing your Metamask wallet to the Ethereum network, ensuring you can manage your digital assets with confidence and security.
Understanding Network Switching in Metamask
Metamask is a browser extension and mobile app that functions as a cryptocurrency wallet and a gateway to blockchain applications. By default, it might connect to a test network or a different mainnet. The Ethereum network is the primary blockchain for a vast ecosystem of tokens, decentralized applications (dApps), and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). Successfully switching to it is essential for interacting with these assets and services.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing to the Ethereum Network
Follow these straightforward steps to configure your wallet correctly.
Step 1: Open Your Metamask Wallet
Launch the Metamask extension in your browser or open the mobile application. Unlock your wallet by entering your password securely.
Step 2: Locate the Network Selection Menu
At the top of the Metamask interface, you will see the current network displayed (e.g., "Binance Smart Chain" or "Ethereum Mainnet"). Click or tap on this network name to open a dropdown list of available networks.
Step 3: Select the Ethereum Network
From the list of networks that appears, simply select "Ethereum Mainnet". Your wallet will instantly switch and refresh to display your assets on the Ethereum blockchain. The gas fees for transactions will now be paid in ETH (Ether).
What If Ethereum Mainnet Is Not Listed?
Sometimes, the Ethereum network might not appear in your preset list. This is common on new installations or if it was previously removed. Here’s how to add it manually.
Adding Ethereum Mainnet Manually
- In the network dropdown, click "Add network".
- You will be redirected to a settings page. Click "Add a network manually".
Enter the following details exactly:
- Network Name: Ethereum Mainnet
- New RPC URL:
https://mainnet.infura.io/v3/ - Chain ID: 1
- Currency Symbol: ETH
- Block Explorer URL:
https://etherscan.io
- Click "Save". The Ethereum Mainnet will now be added to your list and selected automatically.
Managing Your Assets on the Ethereum Network
Once connected to the correct network, you can view your ETH balance and any Ethereum-based tokens (ERC-20, ERC-721).
How to Add Ethereum-Based Tokens
If you hold other tokens like USDT or DAI, you might need to add them manually to see them in your wallet.
- On your wallet’s main screen, click "Import tokens".
- Switch to the "Custom Token" tab.
- Paste the official token contract address. You can find this on reputable explorer sites like Etherscan.
- The token symbol and decimals should auto-populate. Click "Add Custom Token" and then "Import Tokens".
Advanced Network Management
Metamask's flexibility allows you to connect to numerous other blockchains, such as Polygon, Avalanche, and Arbitrum. The process for adding these is similar to manually adding Ethereum—you just need the correct RPC URL, Chain ID, and other network details. Always ensure you are using verified information from the official project sources to avoid losing funds. For a deeper dive into managing multiple chains and maximizing your DeFi strategy, 👉 explore more advanced network strategies here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to be on the correct network?
Sending assets on the wrong network is a common and often irreversible mistake. For example, sending Ethereum-based USDT to an address on the Binance Smart Chain will result in the permanent loss of funds. Always double-check that your sending and receiving networks match.
How do I switch back to a different network like Binance Smart Chain?
The process is identical. Simply open the network dropdown menu and select the desired network from your list, such as "BNB Smart Chain." If it's not there, you can add it manually using the correct network parameters.
Are there any fees for switching networks?
No, switching networks in your Metamask wallet is completely free. You only pay gas fees (network transaction fees) when you actually send cryptocurrencies or interact with smart contracts on that chain.
What should I do if my transaction is stuck?
A stuck transaction often occurs due to a low gas fee setting. You can try speeding it up within Metamask or simply wait for the network to drop it. You are still connected to the Ethereum network; the issue is with the transaction itself, not your network settings.
Is my seed phrase the same for all networks?
Yes. Your unique seed phrase (recovery phrase) grants access to all your cryptocurrency addresses across every blockchain network within your Metamask wallet. Guard this phrase with extreme care and never share it with anyone.
Can I use the same wallet address on different networks?
Yes, your public address (the one you share to receive funds) remains the same across all EVM-compatible networks like Ethereum, Polygon, and BSC. However, the assets on each network are separate and exist only on their native chain.