Quick answer: To add BNB Chain to MetaMask, access your wallet settings, add a new network with the correct parameters, and ensure you have BNB for transactions.
- BNB Chain is essential for interacting with BEP-20 tokens.
- Always double-check network parameters to avoid errors.
- Keep your MetaMask seed phrase secure and never share it.
- Test transactions with a small amount first.
- Be aware of potential scam attempts and only use official resources.
Before you start
- Download and install the latest version of MetaMask.
- Create a MetaMask wallet or have access to an existing one.
- Ensure you have some BNB in your wallet for transaction fees.
- Backup your seed phrase in a secure location.
- Familiarize yourself with basic MetaMask navigation.
How to Add BNB Chain to MetaMask: step by step
1. Open MetaMask and access settings
Launch the MetaMask extension or app and enter your password to unlock your wallet. Click on the network dropdown menu at the top and select ‘Add Network’ to begin the process.
2. Enter BNB Chain network details
In the ‘Add a network’ section, you will need to input the BNB Chain network details. These include the Network Name, New RPC URL, Chain ID, Currency Symbol, and Block Explorer URL. Ensure you use the correct parameters for the BNB Chain mainnet or testnet as needed.
3. Input mainnet parameters
For the BNB Chain mainnet, enter the following: Network Name: BNB Chain Mainnet, New RPC URL: https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org/, Chain ID: 56, Currency Symbol: BNB, Block Explorer URL: https://bscscan.com. Double-check each entry for accuracy.
4. Input testnet parameters (optional)
If you wish to use the BNB Chain testnet, enter these details: Network Name: BNB Chain Testnet, New RPC URL: https://data-seed-prebsc-1-s1.binance.org:8545/, Chain ID: 97, Currency Symbol: BNB, Block Explorer URL: https://testnet.bscscan.com. This is useful for testing purposes.
5. Save the network
After entering the correct parameters, click ‘Save’ to add the BNB Chain network to MetaMask. You should now see BNB Chain as your active network in the network dropdown menu.
6. Verify the network connection
Ensure that the BNB Chain network is active by checking the network dropdown menu. You can also visit the block explorer URL to confirm connectivity and view recent transactions.
7. Add BNB to your wallet
To perform transactions on the BNB Chain, you need BNB for gas fees. Click ‘Buy’ in MetaMask to purchase BNB directly or transfer BNB from another wallet or exchange to your MetaMask wallet address.
8. Interact with BEP-20 tokens
With BNB Chain added, you can now interact with BEP-20 tokens. Use the ‘Import tokens’ feature in MetaMask to add your desired tokens by entering their contract address.
9. Test with a small transaction
Before making larger transactions, perform a small test transaction to ensure everything is working correctly. This helps prevent loss of funds due to potential errors.
Fees and how long it takes
Typical fees for adding a network to MetaMask are zero, but you will need BNB for transaction fees on the BNB Chain. Fees can vary based on network congestion and the complexity of the transaction.
The time to add the BNB Chain network is nearly instant once you have the correct details. Network confirmation times for transactions depend on the network’s current load and can range from a few seconds to several minutes.
Tips to avoid mistakes
- Always verify network parameters from a trusted source.
- Use a testnet first if you’re unfamiliar with the process.
- Keep your MetaMask updated to the latest version for security.
- Avoid sharing your screen or seed phrase with anyone.
- Bookmark the official BNB Chain website for reference.
Stay safe
- Never share your seed phrase with anyone.
- Ensure you are on the correct website when entering network details.
- Beware of phishing sites that mimic MetaMask or BNB Chain.
- Check the network ID and chain ID to avoid connecting to the wrong network.
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA) on your exchange accounts.
If something goes wrong
BNB Chain not appearing in network list — Ensure you have entered the network details correctly and saved the network. Refresh the network list if necessary.
Insufficient BNB for transactions — Purchase BNB or transfer it to your MetaMask wallet. Remember to account for transaction fees.
Unable to connect to BNB Chain — Check your internet connection and verify the network parameters. Try switching to a different RPC URL if the issue persists.
Transaction not confirming — Wait for network confirmation or increase the gas fee to expedite the transaction. Check the network status for congestion.
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.
