How to Add Ethereum Mainnet (ETH) to MetaMask Wallet

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Ethereum Mainnet is the primary and most widely used blockchain network in the decentralized ecosystem. As the foundation for thousands of decentralized applications (dApps), smart contracts, and tokens, connecting your MetaMask wallet to Ethereum Mainnet (ETH) is essential for participating in the Web3 space. Whether you're new to crypto or expanding your wallet setup, this guide walks you through every step to securely configure MetaMask for Ethereum Mainnet.

Understanding Ethereum Mainnet

Before diving into setup steps, it's important to understand what Ethereum Mainnet is and why it matters.

Ethereum Mainnet is where real-value transactions occur. Unlike testnets (like Goerli or Sepolia), actions on this network involve actual ETH and token transfers. It powers DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, DAOs, and more.

👉 Learn how to securely manage your Ethereum assets today.

Why Connect MetaMask to Ethereum Mainnet?

MetaMask is one of the most popular web3 wallets, trusted by millions globally for its ease of use and strong security model. By default, MetaMask connects to Ethereum Mainnet automatically — but if you've switched networks or need to re-add it, knowing how to manually configure it ensures uninterrupted access to dApps and digital assets.

Core Keywords:

These keywords reflect common search intents from users seeking reliable instructions for configuring their wallets.

Step-by-Step: Connecting MetaMask to Ethereum Mainnet

Follow these four clear steps to ensure your MetaMask wallet is properly linked to the Ethereum Mainnet.

Step 1: Install and Set Up MetaMask

If you haven’t already installed MetaMask, begin with the official browser extension.

  1. Open Chrome or a compatible browser.
  2. Visit the official site at metamask.io and click Download.
  3. Choose the extension for your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.).
  4. After installation, click “Get Started.”
  5. Select Create a Wallet if you’re new, or Import Wallet if restoring with a seed phrase.
  6. Securely back up your recovery phrase — never share it or store it digitally.

Once completed, your wallet will default to Ethereum Mainnet unless changed manually.

Step 2: Configure Network Settings

Although MetaMask auto-detects Ethereum Mainnet, you may need to switch back manually if you're using other networks like BSC or Polygon.

  1. Click the network dropdown in the top-left corner of the MetaMask interface.
  2. If "Ethereum Mainnet" isn’t selected, choose it from the list.
  3. If missing entirely, proceed to add it manually (covered below).

This ensures your wallet communicates with the correct blockchain nodes.

Step 3: Manually Add Ethereum Mainnet (If Needed)

In rare cases, Ethereum Mainnet might not appear. You can re-add it using custom RPC settings.

  1. In MetaMask, go to Settings > Networks > Add Network.

  2. Enter the following details:

    • Network Name: Ethereum Mainnet
    • New RPC URL: https://mainnet.infura.io/v3/{your_infura_key} or https://cloudflare-eth.com
    • Chain ID: 1
    • Currency Symbol: ETH
    • Block Explorer URL (optional): https://etherscan.io
Note: Replace {your_infura_key} with your actual Infura API key if using Infura. For public access, https://cloudflare-eth.com requires no authentication.

After saving, MetaMask will connect to Ethereum Mainnet.

👉 Discover seamless ways to interact with Ethereum-based dApps now.

Step 4: Add Tokens to Your Wallet

Once connected, you can view ETH and add ERC-20 tokens (such as USDT, UNI, or DAI).

  1. Click "Import Tokens" in MetaMask.
  2. Go to a trusted source like Etherscan and find the token’s contract address.
  3. Copy the contract address (e.g., Tether USDT: 0xdac17f958d2ee523a2206206994597c13d831ec7).
  4. Paste into MetaMask — symbol and decimals should auto-fill.
  5. Click Add Custom Token, then Next, then Add Tokens.

Your token balance will appear if you own any.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Ethereum Mainnet the same as ETH?

Yes. "Ethereum Mainnet" refers to the primary blockchain network where ETH — the native cryptocurrency — is used for transactions, gas fees, and staking rewards.

Q: Why isn’t Ethereum Mainnet showing in my MetaMask?

It may have been accidentally removed or hidden after switching networks. Simply re-add it via Settings > Networks > Add Network using Chain ID 1 and a valid RPC URL.

Q: Do I need an API key to connect?

Not necessarily. Public endpoints like https://cloudflare-eth.com allow connection without registration. However, services like Infura require a free account and API key for reliable access.

Q: Is it safe to enter custom RPC URLs?

Only use well-known, trusted RPC providers such as Infura, Alchemy, or Cloudflare. Avoid unknown sources to prevent potential phishing or data leaks.

Q: Can I lose funds by changing networks?

No — simply switching networks doesn’t risk your funds. However, sending tokens to the wrong chain (e.g., sending ETH on BSC instead of Ethereum) can result in permanent loss.

Top Tokens on Ethereum Mainnet

Ethereum hosts hundreds of major cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. Some of the most widely used include:

These tokens operate under the ERC-20 standard and are fully compatible with MetaMask.

👉 Explore top-performing Ethereum-based tokens and track performance trends.

Final Tips for Safe Usage

Connecting to Ethereum Mainnet is just the beginning. With your wallet ready, you can now explore decentralized exchanges (DEXs), yield farming, NFT minting, and more — all powered by one of the most robust blockchains in existence.

By following this guide, you’ve ensured secure and accurate configuration of MetaMask for Ethereum Mainnet — enabling full participation in the evolving world of Web3 and decentralized finance.