Adding the Polygon (MATIC) network and Polygon zkEVM to your MetaMask wallet is a straightforward process that opens the door to faster, low-cost transactions on one of the most widely used Ethereum scaling solutions. Whether you're looking to interact with decentralized applications (dApps), bridge assets, or explore Layer 2 innovations, configuring MetaMask correctly is your first essential step.
This guide walks you through the complete setup — from adding the Polygon Mainnet to connecting the Polygon zkEVM Testnet, all while ensuring compatibility, security, and ease of use. No technical background? No problem. We break everything down into simple, actionable steps.
Why Add Polygon Network to MetaMask?
Before diving into the setup, it’s important to understand why you’d want to add Polygon. The MATIC network, now officially known as Polygon PoS Chain, offers:
- Significantly lower gas fees compared to Ethereum
- Faster transaction finality (2–3 seconds)
- Full EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) compatibility
- Access to thousands of DeFi, NFT, and gaming dApps
By adding Polygon to MetaMask, you’re not creating a new wallet — you're simply enabling your existing wallet to interact with a different blockchain network.
👉 Discover how easy it is to manage multiple blockchain networks in one secure wallet.
Step-by-Step: Add Polygon Mainnet (MATIC) to MetaMask
Step 1: Open Network Settings
- Launch your MetaMask extension in your browser.
- In the top-center dropdown menu, you’ll likely see “Ethereum Mainnet” selected by default.
- Click on this network selector and scroll down, then choose “Add Network”.
Note: If you don’t see “Add Network,” click “Show test networks” in settings to ensure the option is visible.
Step 2: Enter Polygon Network Details
Now, manually input the following configuration for the Polygon Mainnet:
- Network Name:
Polygon Mainnet - New RPC URL:
https://polygon-rpc.com/ - Chain ID:
137 - Currency Symbol:
MATIC - Block Explorer URL:
https://polygonscan.com/
✅ Pro Tip: Copy and paste each field carefully to avoid errors. A single typo can lead to lost funds or connection failures.
Once all fields are filled, click “Save”.
MetaMask will validate the connection. If successful, your network indicator will switch from Ethereum Mainnet to Polygon Mainnet.
You’re now live on Polygon!
Step 3: Find Your Polygon Wallet Address
Your wallet address remains the same across networks — yes, the same public key works on Ethereum, Polygon, and other EVM-compatible chains.
To view it:
- Click the account icon in MetaMask.
- Select “Account Details”.
- Copy your address or share the QR code for easy deposits.
You can verify incoming transactions by pasting your address into Polygonscan — just make sure you're on the correct network.
What Is Polygon zkEVM?
Polygon zkEVM is a zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine designed to scale Ethereum using cryptographic proofs (zk-rollups). It provides:
- Near-instant finality
- Lower costs via batched transactions
- Enhanced security inherited from Ethereum
- Native support for existing Solidity smart contracts
While still evolving, zkEVM is ideal for developers testing cutting-edge scalability solutions and users exploring next-gen Layer 2 ecosystems.
How to Add Polygon zkEVM Testnet to MetaMask
Currently, the mainnet requires whitelisting, but the zkEVM Testnet is open for experimentation.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Access Network Settings Again
- Open MetaMask.
- Click the network dropdown.
- Choose “Add Network” > “Add a network manually”.
Step 2: Input zkEVM Testnet Parameters
Enter the following details exactly:
- Network Name:
Polygon zkEVM Testnet - New RPC URL:
https://rpc.public.zkevm-test.net - Chain ID:
1442 - Currency Symbol:
ETH - Block Explorer URL:
https://testnet-zkevm.polygonscan.com/(optional)
Click “Save” after entering all fields.
MetaMask will connect and confirm the network. You should now see “Polygon zkEVM Testnet” at the top of your interface.
Step 3: Get Test ETH for Transactions
Since this is a test environment, you’ll need testnet ETH (not real value) to interact with dApps.
- Visit the official Polygon zkEVM faucet.
- Connect your wallet.
- Request test ETH tokens.
With test funds, you can experiment with swaps, bridges, and contract interactions risk-free.
👉 Learn how advanced blockchain networks streamline DeFi access and asset management.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
❌ “Invalid RPC Endpoint” Error
Ensure you’ve pasted the correct URL:
- For Polygon Mainnet:
https://polygon-rpc.com/ - For zkEVM Testnet:
https://rpc.public.zkevm-test.net
Avoid trailing spaces or typos.
💸 High Gas Fees on Polygon?
Double-check that MetaMask shows “Polygon Mainnet” — if it’s still set to Ethereum, you’re paying ETH gas fees.
🔁 Missing Token Balances?
Tokens must be manually added if they don’t appear automatically. Use the “Import Tokens” feature in MetaMask and search by contract address on Polygonscan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a new wallet for Polygon?
A: No. Your MetaMask wallet works across multiple blockchains. You’re only adding network access — your private keys remain unchanged.
Q: Is the Chain ID important?
A: Absolutely. Chain ID ensures your transactions go to the right blockchain. Using 137 for Polygon prevents conflicts with Ethereum (Chain ID 1).
Q: Can I send MATIC directly from an exchange to my MetaMask address?
A: Yes — but ensure both the exchange and your wallet are set to Polygon (MATIC) network, not BEP-20 or ERC-20, unless bridging.
Q: Why does zkEVM use ETH instead of MATIC?
A: Because zkEVM is built as an Ethereum-equivalent Layer 2, gas fees are paid in ETH, aligning with Ethereum’s native currency model.
Q: Are there risks in adding custom networks?
A: Only if you input untrusted RPC URLs. Always use official sources like polygon.technology for verification.
Q: Can I switch between networks easily?
A: Yes! Just click the network selector in MetaMask and choose between Ethereum, Polygon, zkEVM, or any added chain in seconds.
Final Tips for Safe & Smooth Usage
- Bookmark official RPC endpoints for quick reference.
- Never share your seed phrase — legitimate services will never ask for it.
- Use hardware wallets like Ledger for larger holdings.
- Regularly update MetaMask to benefit from security patches and UI improvements.
👉 Securely manage multi-chain assets with trusted tools built for modern crypto users.
Summary: Your 3-Step Path to Polygon Integration
- ✅ Ensure MetaMask is installed and set up securely
- ✅ Add Polygon Mainnet using Chain ID 137 and official RPC
- ✅ Optionally, connect to Polygon zkEVM Testnet (Chain ID 1442) for future-facing experimentation
With both networks active, you’re ready to explore decentralized finance, NFT marketplaces, gaming platforms, and cross-chain bridges — all with reduced costs and increased speed.
Whether you're a beginner taking your first steps beyond Ethereum or a developer testing scalable architectures, mastering network configuration in MetaMask is a foundational skill in today’s multi-chain world.
Stay curious, stay secure, and keep building.