Summary

MetaMask is a cryptocurrency wallet connected to the Ethereum mainnet by default. You can find the plug-in and mobile app on the official MetaMask website.

If you connect to a network such as Arbitrum, you need to add some blockchain information to MetaMask. Including chain ID, custom RPC URL and network name. To add Arbitrum tokens, you will also need to import the correct token address.

Adding new blockchains to MetaMask is a transferable skill that you can use to add Ethereum virtual machines such as Binance Coin Smart Chain (formerly Binance Smart Chain) and Polygon (EVM) network.

Introduction

If you want to use the Arbitrum blockchain, you should prepare a compatible cryptocurrency wallet such as MetaMask . But by default, MetaMask does not automatically add Arbitrum as a blockchain. Binding your wallet to Arbitrum is simple and can be done quickly.

MetaMask installation and settings

1. MetaMask can be found in MetaMask Download from the website and install it on Chrome, iOS or Android. You must use the official website to download genuine plug-ins.

2. After the plug-in is installed, you can see the registration page. Click [Start] to experience it now.

If you are creating a new wallet, please click the [Create Wallet] button. You can also use the [Import Wallet] option to import an old wallet using a mnemonic phrase.

4. If you need to share anonymous usage data with Metamask, you can perform the operation at this stage. Accepting or rejecting will not affect your normal use of the wallet.

5. Create a secure password for your wallet immediately. Please note that this is not your mnemonic phrase. Passwords make it easy to prevent others from accessing your wallet through your device. If you forget your password, you can always retrieve it via a mnemonic phrase.

6. After selecting the password, MetaMask will provide you with some useful information about the wallet mnemonic phrase. If you are not familiar with how cryptocurrency wallets work, please read through this article carefully.

7. Now, you will see the mnemonic phrase. Click the lock to view the mnemonic phrase and write it down in the correct order. Store your mnemonic phrase in a safe location (preferably offline) and do not share it with others. This string of words is the ultimate backup of the contents of your wallet. Click [Next] to continue.

8. You need to select the words in the correct order to repeat your mnemonic. After completion, please click [Confirm].

9. Your MetaMask wallet is now ready for use. Click [Complete All] to view your new wallet.

10. You can click the puzzle icon and select Metamask to pin it to the top of the Chrome browser. Initially, MetaMask only connected to Ethereum. Next, we'll see how to connect Metamask to Arbitrum.

Configure wallet

1. If you add the Arbitrum function to the wallet , need to add some simple network details in Metamask. First, open Metamask and click on the Network drop-down menu.

2. Now, click [Add Network] in the pop-up window.

3. You need to add the following details to the [Add Network] page that opens. When finished, click [Save].

4. Now you will successfully connect to the Arbitrum network.

Add Arbitrum tokens to MetaMask

You need to add them manually in order for Arbitrum tokens to appear in On the wallet user interface (UI). Please note that your wallet will still receive unimported tokens, but they will not show up themselves.

1. First, go to Arbiscan and find the token contract and token details you want to add. If the token is not on Arbiscan, please obtain the contract address from the project official website. You must always beware of false contracts created by criminals.

2. Return to MetaMask and click [Import Tokens].

3. Paste the token contract address and MetaMask will fill in the remaining details. If not, add it manually. Please click [Add Custom Token] to complete.

4. Click [Import Tokens].

5. Your wallet will now display the balance of the tokens just added.

Summary

After setting up the Arbitrum mainnet in MetaMask, you can start sending cryptocurrencies, collecting NFTs and using DeFiDApp smart contracts for free. You can even exchange tokens within the plugin. However, in order to cover transaction costs, make sure you have Ethereum in your wallet. By using the Arbitrum Bridge, you can obtain ether from the Ethereum mainnet.  

MetaMask is not exclusive to Ethereum and Arbitrum. The wallet actually also supports the entire Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) ecosystem, including the Binance Coin Smart Chain. Armed with the skills in this tutorial, you can now add more chains and use them with the correct details.