The decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem on the BNB Smart Chain continues to expand, offering users numerous opportunities to earn passive income and engage with innovative applications. To participate in these activities, you need a non-custodial wallet like MetaMask.
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough for adding the BNB Smart Chain network to your MetaMask wallet, enabling you to interact seamlessly with dApps on this vibrant blockchain.
Understanding MetaMask Wallet
MetaMask is one of the world's most widely used software wallets, serving millions of cryptocurrency users globally. It supports the storage of thousands of digital assets and provides straightforward access to buying, selling, and engaging with decentralized finance platforms.
Initially designed solely for the Ethereum network, MetaMask has evolved into a multi-chain wallet that supports all Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatible blockchains. The BNB Smart Chain is EVM-compatible, making it fully operable within the MetaMask interface.
Prerequisites for Adding BNB Smart Chain
Before you begin, make sure you have the following prepared:
Install MetaMask Extension
If you haven’t already, download the MetaMask browser extension from the official website. It is compatible with popular browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge.
Secure Your Wallet
Create a strong and unique password during the setup process. More importantly, safely store your secret recovery phrase in an offline location. This phrase is essential for restoring your wallet if you lose access to your device or forget your login details.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding BNB Smart Chain
By default, MetaMask connects to the Ethereum network. To use other EVM-compatible networks like BNB Smart Chain, you need to add them manually. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Log Into Your MetaMask Wallet
Open the MetaMask extension in your browser and enter your password to access your wallet.
Step 2: Access Settings
Click on your profile icon located in the top-right corner of the MetaMask interface. From the dropdown menu, select “Settings.”
Step 3: Navigate to Networks
In the Settings menu, click on “Networks,” then select “Add Network.”
Step 4: Select BNB Smart Chain
You’ll see a list of pre-configured EVM-compatible networks. Scroll down and choose “BNB Smart Chain.” Click “Add” to proceed.
Step 5: Verify Network Details
Before finalizing, confirm that the following network parameters are correctly entered:
- Network Name: BNB Smart Chain
- RPC URL: https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org/
- Chain ID: 56
- Symbol: BNB
- Block Explorer URL: https://bscscan.com
Once verified, click “Approve.”
Step 6: Switch to BNB Smart Chain
After successfully adding the network, you’ll see a confirmation message. Click “Switch to BNB Chain” to start using the network immediately.
Step 7: Fund Your Wallet
To perform transactions on BNB Smart Chain, you need BNB tokens to cover gas fees. Copy your BNB Smart Chain address from MetaMask.
Then, from your exchange or another wallet, send BNB to this address. Ensure you select the BEP-20 network when transferring. Always double-check the address before confirming the transaction.
Once your wallet is funded, you can explore decentralized applications directly through MetaMask’s built-in browser.
Using BNB Smart Chain with MetaMask
After adding the network, you can:
- Swap tokens on decentralized exchanges like PancakeSwap
- Provide liquidity to farming pools
- Stake tokens in yield-generating protocols
- Participate in NFT marketplaces and gaming platforms
👉 Explore popular dApps on BNB Chain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BNB Smart Chain?
BNB Smart Chain is a blockchain network built by Binance that runs parallel to the native Binance Chain. It supports smart contracts and is fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine, allowing developers to port Ethereum-based dApps easily.
Is it safe to add custom networks to MetaMask?
Yes, as long as you use verified network details like the ones provided in this guide. Avoid entering RPC URLs from unverified sources to minimize security risks.
Can I use the same MetaMask wallet for multiple blockchains?
Absolutely. MetaMask supports all EVM-compatible networks simultaneously. You can easily switch between Ethereum, BNB Smart Chain, Polygon, and others within the same wallet.
Why can’t I see my BNB balance after transferring?
First, ensure you’ve switched to the BNB Smart Chain network in MetaMask. If your balance still doesn’t appear, check the transaction status on BscScan using your wallet address.
What are the gas fees on BNB Smart Chain?
Gas fees on BNB Smart Chain are significantly lower than on Ethereum. Transactions typically cost a fraction of a cent, paid in BNB.
Do I need different wallets for each blockchain?
No. MetaMask allows you to manage assets across multiple EVM-compatible blockchains from a single wallet, making it convenient and efficient.
Now you’re ready to explore the growing world of BNB Smart Chain dApps with confidence and security. Always remember to keep your recovery phrase private and double-check all transaction details before approving.