How to Add Polygon to MetaMask

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MetaMask is one of the most widely used cryptocurrency wallets, available as both a browser extension and a mobile app. By default, it connects to the Ethereum mainnet, allowing users to manage ETH and ERC-20 tokens seamlessly. However, to interact with other Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible blockchains like Polygon, you’ll need to manually configure your wallet. This guide will walk you through how to add Polygon to MetaMask quickly and securely.

Whether you're looking to reduce transaction fees, explore decentralized applications (DApps), or collect NFTs on Polygon, connecting your MetaMask wallet is the first essential step.

Why Use Polygon with MetaMask?

Polygon (formerly Matic Network) is a layer-2 scaling solution designed to enhance Ethereum’s speed and efficiency. It offers significantly lower gas fees and faster transaction confirmations while maintaining high security standards. With growing adoption across DeFi, gaming, and NFT platforms, Polygon has become a go-to network for crypto enthusiasts.

By adding Polygon to MetaMask, you unlock access to:

👉 Discover how easy it is to start using EVM-compatible networks today.

Step-by-Step Guide: Adding Polygon Network to MetaMask

1. Install and Set Up MetaMask

If you haven't already installed MetaMask, visit the official website to download the extension for Chrome, Firefox, or Brave, or get the app on iOS or Android. Always ensure you’re on the legitimate site to avoid phishing scams.

After installation:

  1. Click Get Started.
  2. Choose Create a Wallet (or Import Wallet if restoring).
  3. Create a strong password — this protects access on your device but isn’t your recovery phrase.
  4. Carefully write down and store your 12-word secret recovery phrase in a secure, offline location.
  5. Confirm the phrase by selecting words in order.
  6. Click All Done — your wallet is now ready.
🔐 Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. It grants full control over your funds.

2. Add the Polygon Network Manually

Since Polygon isn’t preloaded in MetaMask, you’ll need to input its network details manually.

Follow these steps:

  1. Open MetaMask and click the network dropdown (e.g., "Ethereum Mainnet").
  2. Select Add Network.

  3. In the form that appears, enter the following details for the Polygon Mainnet:

    • Network Name: Polygon Mainnet
    • New RPC URL: https://polygon-rpc.com/
    • Chain ID: 137
    • Currency Symbol (optional): MATIC
    • Block Explorer URL (optional): https://polygonscan.com
  4. Click Save.

MetaMask will switch to the Polygon network automatically. You should now see any MATIC balance in your wallet.

💡 Tip: If Chain ID 137 doesn’t save properly, try entering it again without spaces or special characters.

3. Importing Polygon-Based Tokens

While MATIC (Polygon’s native token) appears automatically once the network is added, other tokens like USDC, AAVE, or project-specific ERC-20s on Polygon won’t show up unless imported.

To add a custom token:

  1. Switch MetaMask to the Polygon Mainnet network.
  2. Click Import Tokens at the bottom of the wallet interface.
  3. Go to Polygonscan and search for the token you want.
  4. Copy its Contract Address.
  5. Paste it into the “Token Contract Address” field in MetaMask.
  6. The token symbol and decimals should auto-populate.
  7. Click Add Custom Token, then Import Tokens.

Your token balance will now appear if you hold any.

⚠️ Always verify contract addresses from official project websites or trusted sources to avoid scams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it safe to add Polygon to MetaMask?

Yes, adding Polygon to MetaMask is completely safe as long as you use official network details and avoid suspicious third-party links. The process only configures your wallet to communicate with the Polygon blockchain — no private keys are exposed.

Q: Do I need MATIC to use the Polygon network?

Yes, MATIC is required to pay gas fees on the Polygon network. You can buy MATIC directly in MetaMask via integrated exchanges or transfer it from a centralized exchange like OKX.

👉 Learn how to acquire MATIC securely and begin transacting on Polygon.

Q: Can I use the same wallet address on Ethereum and Polygon?

Absolutely. Your MetaMask wallet address remains the same across all EVM-compatible chains, including Ethereum and Polygon. This simplifies cross-chain interactions and asset management.

Q: Why can’t I see my tokens after adding the network?

Tokens must be manually imported unless they’re part of MetaMask’s default token list. Additionally, ensure you’re on the correct network (Polygon Mainnet) and have a balance before troubleshooting further.

Q: What if the RPC URL doesn’t work?

Try alternative RPC endpoints like:

These are reliable backups maintained by trusted infrastructure providers.

Exploring the Polygon Ecosystem

Once configured, your MetaMask wallet opens the door to a vibrant decentralized ecosystem:

You can also bridge assets from Ethereum to Polygon using the official Polygon Bridge, enabling seamless cross-chain transfers.

Final Thoughts

Adding Polygon to MetaMask enhances your crypto experience by giving you access to a fast, scalable, and cost-effective blockchain environment. The setup takes just a few minutes and empowers you to engage with thousands of DApps across DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and more.

As more EVM-compatible networks emerge, knowing how to add custom chains becomes an essential skill for any crypto user. Once you’ve mastered adding Polygon, you can apply the same process to integrate BNB Smart Chain, Avalanche C-Chain, and others.

Whether you're new to Web3 or expanding your multi-chain strategy, configuring MetaMask for Polygon is a smart move toward greater financial freedom and digital ownership.

👉 Start exploring EVM-compatible networks and expand your decentralized journey now.

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