TL;DR
MetaMask is a crypto wallet that connects by default to the Ethereum mainnet. You can find the extension and mobile app on the official MetaMask website.
To connect to networks like Arbitrum, you'll need to add some blockchain information to MetaMask. This includes a chain ID, custom RPC URL, and network name. To add an Arbitrum token, you’ll also need to import the correct token address.
Adding new blockchains to MetaMask is a transferable skill, and you can apply the skill to add other EVM networks like BNB Smart Chain (formerly Binance Smart Chain) and Polygon.
Introduction
Installing and setting up MetaMask
2. After installing the extension, you’ll see the MetaMask welcome page. Click [Get Started] to begin.
4. If you’d like to share anonymous usage data with Metamask, you can do so at this stage. Accepting or refusing this will not affect your wallet usage.
6. After choosing your password, MetaMask will provide some useful information regarding your wallet’s seed phrase. Read through it carefully if you’re not familiar with how crypto wallets work.
7. You’ll now see with your seed phrase. Click the lock to view the phrase and take note of the words in the correct order. Store the phrase securely (preferably offline) and never share it with anyone. This string of words is the final backup of your wallet’s contents. Click [Next] to continue.
8. You’ll need to repeat your seed phrase by selecting the words in the correct order. Click [Confirm] once finished.
9. Your MetaMask wallet will now be ready to use. Click [All Done] to view your new wallet.
Configuring the wallet
1. Adding Arbitrum functionality to your wallet involves adding some simple network details to Metamask. First, open Metamask and click the network dropdown menu.
2. Now, click [Add Network] on the pop-up.
3. You’ll need to add the following details on the [Add a network] page that will open. Click [Save] when you’re finished.
Network Name | Arbitrum One |
New RPC URL | |
Chain ID | 42161 |
Currency Symbol | ETH |
Block Explorer URL |
4. You’ll now successfully be connected to the Arbitrum network.
Adding Arbitrum tokens to MetaMask
For Arbitrum tokens to appear on the wallet UI, you need to manually add them. Note your wallet will still receive tokens that haven’t been imported, but they just won’t show up natively.
2. Return to MetaMask and click [Import tokens].
3. Paste in the token’s contract address and MetaMask should fill in the rest of the details. If not, manually add them. To finish, click [Add Custom Token].
4. Click [Import Tokens].
5. Your wallet will now display the balance of the token you just added.