how to add bnb smart chain network to metamask

What Is MetaMask and Why Add the BNB Smart Chain Network?

MetaMask is a browser extension and mobile wallet that acts as your "keyring" for managing accounts and signing transactions. By adding the BNB Smart Chain network, your wallet can connect to the BNB Smart Chain mainnet, allowing you to manage BNB and BEP‑20 tokens and interact with dApps built on this chain.

Many applications are deployed on the BNB Smart Chain. If your wallet is only connected to the Ethereum mainnet, you will not be able to interact with these apps. Adding the BNB Smart Chain network to MetaMask is like creating a "new route" for your wallet.

What Is the BNB Smart Chain Network? How Does It Relate to Ethereum in MetaMask?

The BNB Smart Chain network is the smart contract mainnet of BNB Chain, with BEP‑20 as its common token standard. This is similar to Ethereum’s ERC‑20 standard—both represent transferable token formats. Both networks also use similar address formats, allowing you to operate across chains simply by switching networks within MetaMask.

Think of networks in MetaMask as different "cities": Ethereum Mainnet is one city, while BNB Smart Chain is another. When you switch cities, the currency and applications you use change accordingly.

What Do You Need Before Adding the BNB Smart Chain Network to MetaMask?

First, you need to have MetaMask installed, functioning properly, and your seed phrase (a set of words used to recover your wallet) securely backed up. Never share your seed phrase with anyone or any website.

You will also need specific network parameters: the RPC URL, ChainID, token symbol, and block explorer URL. These details allow your wallet to recognize and connect to the correct chain.

Additionally, you will need a small amount of BNB to pay transaction (gas) fees on the network. Without BNB, transactions or dApp interactions will fail.

How Do You Add the BNB Smart Chain Network in MetaMask?

Step 1: Open MetaMask and click on the network name at the top to enter "Add Network" or "Network Settings." On mobile, tap the menu in the upper left and navigate to networks in settings.

Step 2: Select "Add Network Manually." If options like "Add from List" or "Recommended Networks" appear, you can use them, but always verify the parameters match official sources.

Step 3: Enter the network parameters: network name, RPC URL, ChainID, token symbol, and block explorer URL. Double-check for accuracy before saving.

Step 4: Once saved, MetaMask will switch to the BNB Smart Chain network. You can now view your balance on the account page. If tokens are not visible, use "Import Tokens" later to add BEP‑20 contract addresses.

What RPC, ChainID, and Token Symbol Should You Use When Adding BNB Smart Chain in MetaMask?

The RPC URL is how your wallet communicates with the blockchain—think of it as an internet access point. The most common public RPC is https://bsc-dataseed.bnbchain.org. For stability, you may use other public nodes listed in official documentation—always verify node details through BNB Chain’s official resources before adding.

ChainID is the unique identifier for each network, similar to a city area code. The ChainID for BNB Smart Chain is 56.

The token symbol is the ticker for the network’s native coin—used to display balances and gas fees. For BNB Smart Chain, use "BNB" as the token symbol.

The block explorer URL lets you view public records of transactions and addresses—like a searchable online ledger. The most common is https://bscscan.com.

Sample settings:

• Network Name: "BNB Smart Chain" (or "BNB智能链")
• RPC: Official public node
• ChainID: 56
• Token Symbol: BNB
• Block Explorer URL: bscscan

What Can You Do With BNB Smart Chain in MetaMask?

After switching to the BNB Smart Chain network, you can send BNB, import and manage BEP‑20 tokens, and interact with dApps on this chain—for example, swapping or earning yields on PancakeSwap.

You can also select this chain for deposits and withdrawals in supported scenarios—such as choosing "BNB Smart Chain (BEP20)" when depositing or withdrawing assets from Gate.

How Do You Deposit BNB and Tokens After Adding the BNB Smart Chain Network in MetaMask?

Step 1: Buy BNB or your desired tokens on Gate. For tokens, ensure they are BEP‑20 versions (the same token may exist in different formats on various chains).

Step 2: On Gate, choose "Withdraw" and select "BNB Smart Chain (BEP20)" as the network. Copy your MetaMask address (displayed when you switch to the BNB Smart Chain network).

Step 3: Paste your address into Gate’s withdrawal form, confirm that both network and address match, then submit. Check MetaMask for receipt; if tokens don’t appear, click "Import Tokens" and enter the BEP‑20 contract address.

Step 4: Always keep a small amount of BNB for gas fees; otherwise, future transfers or approvals may fail. Start with a small test transfer first to ensure success before sending larger amounts.

What Are the Risks and Common Issues When Adding the BNB Smart Chain Network in MetaMask?

Risk 1: Selecting the wrong network. Addresses look identical across EVM-compatible chains; if you choose an incorrect network on an exchange, assets may be sent to another chain and may not be recoverable. Always verify you’re selecting "BNB Smart Chain (BEP20)."

Risk 2: RPC phishing. Fake RPC endpoints could hijack transactions or provide false data. Only use official or reputable public RPCs; never click “one-click add network” from unknown sites.

Risk 3: Insufficient gas fees. Not having enough BNB will cause transactions to fail or get stuck pending. Always maintain a sufficient BNB balance.

Risk 4: Token contract confusion. Importing an incorrect contract address may display fake tokens. Always verify contract addresses via official sources or trusted explorers like bscscan project pages.

Common issue: Transactions stuck pending for a long time. In MetaMask, try "Speed Up" to increase gas fees; or check node congestion in a block explorer. If parameters were entered incorrectly, delete the network and re-add it with correct details.

What Are Alternatives for Adding the BNB Smart Chain Network in MetaMask?

You can use dApps supporting BNB Smart Chain that trigger a "request to add network," allowing one-click confirmation in a MetaMask pop-up—still, always verify parameter sources for legitimacy.

Alternatively, third-party network list tools (like Chainlist) can help you find and add networks. Before using these, double-check RPC and ChainID against official or reputable sources—prioritize official or high-trust nodes.

Key Takeaways for Adding the BNB Smart Chain Network in MetaMask

Adding the BNB Smart Chain network enables MetaMask to recognize and connect to its nodes so you can manage BNB and BEP‑20 tokens and interact with dApps on this chain. The most critical step is entering accurate parameters (RPC URL, ChainID=56, token symbol=BNB, block explorer=bscscan), and selecting "BNB Smart Chain (BEP20)" during deposits/withdrawals. Always prioritize fund security: verify networks, confirm contract addresses, maintain enough gas fees, and start with small test transactions. By following these steps, your wallet can seamlessly send, receive, and interact on the BNB Smart Chain.

FAQ

Will My Ethereum Assets Disappear After Adding the BNB Smart Chain Network?

No, your assets will not disappear. Adding the BNB Smart Chain network simply adds another network option in MetaMask; your Ethereum wallet and assets remain unchanged. You can switch between different networks using MetaMask's top menu—similar to switching between different accounts. Changing networks does not affect asset security on other networks.

Why Are Transaction Fees Lower on BNB Smart Chain Compared to Ethereum?

The BNB Smart Chain uses a Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism and achieves faster block times compared to Ethereum’s Proof-of-Work system—enabling higher throughput and lower competition for space in each block. This results in lower gas fees, much like how widening a highway improves traffic flow and reduces congestion costs. Lower fees make small transactions and frequent operations more cost-effective, which is ideal for DeFi yield farming and trading.

What Happens If I Enter an Incorrect RPC Address When Adding the BNB Smart Chain Network?

If you enter an incorrect RPC address, MetaMask will be unable to connect to the network and will show a “connection failed” error message. No assets will be lost; simply edit your network settings and replace the RPC with a correct one (official recommendation: https://bsc-dataseed.bnbchain.org). Always obtain RPC URLs from official sources or trusted platforms like Gate.

How Can I Transfer My Tokens From BNB Smart Chain Back to Ethereum?

Cross-chain transfers require using bridge services—they cannot be done via direct transfers alone. The process involves depositing your tokens into a platform that supports cross-chain operations (such as Gate), then withdrawing from BNB Smart Chain to Ethereum. Sending directly from your wallet to an Ethereum address will result in loss of funds; always use legitimate bridging channels.

Does Connecting Multiple Networks in MetaMask Affect Security?

Adding multiple networks does not reduce security. MetaMask is designed as a multi-chain wallet where you always control your private keys. However, always double-check which network you’re operating on before making transactions to avoid mistakes. Regularly review your added networks list—removing unused networks can reduce risks of accidental operations.