Arbitrum is a layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum that aims to improve transaction speed and reduce fees by processing transactions off the main Ethereum chain.

Can I use Arbitrum with other wallets?

Yes, Arbitrum is compatible with several wallets, including MetaMask, WalletConnect, and others that support layer 2 solutions.

How do I switch back to Ethereum mainnet?

In MetaMask, click on the network dropdown menu and select 'Ethereum Mainnet' from the list of available networks.

Is there a fee to use Arbitrum?

While there is no fee to add the network, you will incur gas fees for transactions and bridging assets to Arbitrum.

How to Add Arbitrum to MetaMask

Quick answer: To add Arbitrum to MetaMask, you need to input the network details manually or use a supported service. Follow these steps for a smooth setup.

Before you start

Ensure you have the latest version of MetaMask installed.
Have access to your MetaMask wallet and seed phrase.
Understand the irreversibility of on-chain transactions.
Prepare a small amount of ETH for gas fees.

How to Add Arbitrum to MetaMask: step by step

1. Open MetaMask and access settings

Launch MetaMask and click on the network dropdown menu at the top. Select ‘Add Network’ to open the network settings page.

2. Enter Arbitrum network details

In the ‘Add a network’ section, you will need to input the following details: Network Name: Arbitrum One, New RPC URL: https://arb1.arbitrum.io/rpc, Chain ID: 42161, Currency Symbol: ETH, Block Explorer URL: https://arbiscan.io/

3. Save the network

After entering the details, click the ‘Save’ button. MetaMask will validate the network information and add Arbitrum to your network list.

4. Switch to Arbitrum network

Once saved, switch to the Arbitrum network by selecting it from the network dropdown menu. You should see ‘Arbitrum One’ displayed as your current network.

5. Verify the network connection

To ensure the network is connected correctly, you can check your balance or use the block explorer URL provided to view your address on Arbitrum.

6. Transfer ETH to Arbitrum

If you want to use Arbitrum, you will need to bridge ETH or other assets from Ethereum mainnet to Arbitrum. Use a bridging service like Arbitrum Bridge for this purpose.

7. Test with a small amount

Before making larger transactions, test the setup by sending a small amount of ETH to your Arbitrum address to ensure everything works correctly.

Fees and how long it takes

Typical fees for adding a network to MetaMask are zero, but you will need ETH for gas fees when transferring assets to Arbitrum. The time to add the network is nearly instant, but bridging assets can take from a few minutes to several hours depending on network congestion and the bridging service used.

Stay safe

Never share your seed phrase or private keys.
Double-check all network details to avoid sending funds to the wrong network.
Be aware of phishing scams and only use official resources.
Keep your MetaMask and bridging service software updated.
Test with a small amount before making larger transactions.

If something goes wrong

Network not appearing in the list — Ensure you have entered the network details correctly and saved the network. If issues persist, try restarting MetaMask.

Unable to connect to Arbitrum — Check your internet connection and ensure the Arbitrum RPC URL is correct. You can also try using a different RPC URL.

Funds not showing on Arbitrum — Verify that you have completed the bridging process and check the block explorer for transaction confirmation.

Doing this as part of trading, income, or a disposal? See how it may be taxed in Tax by country and the taxable-events section — information, not advice.