How to Add Arbitrum to MetaMask?

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Adding Arbitrum to your MetaMask wallet unlocks access to one of the most efficient Layer 2 scaling solutions built on Ethereum. With faster transactions and lower fees, Arbitrum has become a go-to network for DeFi enthusiasts, NFT collectors, and blockchain developers. While MetaMask doesn’t include Arbitrum by default, integrating it is simple and takes just a few minutes.

This guide walks you through every step—from setting up MetaMask to connecting it with the Arbitrum network and importing Arbitrum-based tokens. Whether you're new to crypto or expanding your multi-chain toolkit, this tutorial equips you with essential skills applicable across EVM-compatible networks like BNB Smart Chain and Polygon.

Setting Up MetaMask

Before connecting to Arbitrum, ensure you have a functional MetaMask wallet. MetaMask is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet available as a browser extension (for Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers) and as a mobile app (iOS and Android).

👉 Get started securely with MetaMask today.

To install:

  1. Visit the official MetaMask website — always download from trusted sources to avoid phishing.
  2. Install the extension or app.
  3. Launch the application and click "Get Started."

You’ll then choose between:

During setup:

After confirming your recovery phrase by selecting words in order, your wallet will be ready. Click "All Done" to proceed.

Connecting MetaMask to Arbitrum Network

By default, MetaMask connects to the Ethereum Mainnet. To interact with Arbitrum, you must manually add its network details. This process uses standard EVM network parameters and can be reused for other chains like Polygon or BNB Smart Chain.

Follow these steps:

  1. Open MetaMask and click the current network name (likely “Ethereum Mainnet”) at the top.
  2. Select “Add Network” from the dropdown menu.
  3. Choose “Add a Network Manually.”

Enter the following Arbitrum One Mainnet configuration:

  1. Click “Save” to confirm.

MetaMask will switch to the Arbitrum network automatically. If successful, you’ll see your balance and the network labeled as “Arbitrum One” in the interface.

🔐 Always double-check RPC URLs and Chain IDs. Using incorrect or malicious endpoints could compromise your security.

Now that your wallet is connected, you can explore decentralized applications (DApps), provide liquidity, trade tokens, or mint NFTs on Arbitrum — all with significantly reduced gas costs compared to Ethereum.

Importing Arbitrum Tokens into MetaMask

Even after connecting to Arbitrum, custom tokens (such as $ARB or project-specific ERC-20s) won’t appear automatically unless they’re part of MetaMask’s default token list.

To display them:

  1. Go to Arbiscan.io, search for the token you want (e.g., ARB), and copy its contract address.

    • Alternatively, obtain the verified contract address from the project’s official website.
    • ⚠️ Beware of fake tokens with similar names or spoofed websites.

  2. In MetaMask:

    • Scroll down and click “Import Tokens” at the bottom of your asset list.
    • Paste the contract address into the “Token Contract Address” field.
    • The token symbol and decimals should auto-fill.
    • Click “Add Custom Token,” then “Import Tokens.”

The token will now appear in your wallet with its current balance.

👉 Discover more ways to manage multi-chain assets efficiently.

Using DeFi, NFTs, and DApps on Arbitrum

With MetaMask configured for Arbitrum, you’re ready to dive into the ecosystem:

Remember: All transactions require gas fees paid in ETH. Even though Arbitrum fees are much lower than Ethereum’s, you still need a small amount of ETH in your wallet to send transactions.

To get started:

  1. Transfer ETH from Ethereum Mainnet via the Arbitrum Bridge.
  2. Wait for confirmation (typically 7 days for standard withdrawals, but instant with third-party bridges like Orbiter Finance).
  3. Once received, you can freely use ETH for gas on Arbitrum.

Why This Skill Matters Beyond Arbitrum

Learning how to add a custom network to MetaMask is a foundational blockchain skill. It applies universally across EVM-compatible chains:

Once you understand how RPC URLs, Chain IDs, and block explorers work, you can confidently navigate emerging networks without relying on pre-configured settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it safe to add Arbitrum to MetaMask?
A: Yes — as long as you use verified network details from official sources like Arbitrum’s documentation or Arbiscan. Never copy RPC URLs from untrusted forums or social media.

Q: Do I need a new wallet for Arbitrum?
A: No. Your existing MetaMask wallet works across all EVM chains. Adding Arbitrum simply changes which network you're interacting with — your private keys remain the same.

Q: Why can’t I see my tokens after adding Arbitrum?
A: You may need to manually import them using their contract addresses. Just because a token exists on Arbitrum doesn’t mean it auto-appears in MetaMask.

Q: Can I lose money by adding a custom network?
A: Not directly — simply adding a network doesn’t risk funds. However, interacting with malicious DApps or fake tokens on that network can lead to losses. Always verify contracts.

Q: What if the RPC URL doesn’t work?
A: Try an alternative public RPC endpoint or check Chainlist.org, which provides trusted, pre-verified network configurations.

Final Thoughts

Adding Arbitrum to MetaMask empowers you to experience Ethereum’s scalability firsthand — with cheaper fees and faster speeds while maintaining full security and compatibility.

As blockchain ecosystems grow increasingly interconnected, mastering multi-network navigation becomes essential. From DeFi yield farming to NFT collecting, being chain-agnostic gives you more opportunities and greater control over your digital assets.

👉 Take your crypto journey further — explore tools that support seamless cross-chain experiences.

By following this guide, you’ve not only added Arbitrum but also gained transferable knowledge for exploring future blockchain innovations — safely and confidently.