How to Add Ethereum Classic (ETC) Network to MetaMask

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Ethereum Classic (ETC) maintains the original Ethereum blockchain, preserving its history and principles. Many users choose to interact with ETC decentralized applications (DApps) using MetaMask, one of the world's most popular Web3 wallets. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough to configure MetaMask for the Ethereum Classic Mainnet.

Understanding Ethereum Classic and MetaMask

Ethereum Classic emerged from a philosophical commitment to immutability after the original Ethereum blockchain underwent a hard fork. Its native cryptocurrency is ETC.

MetaMask is a software cryptocurrency wallet used primarily to interact with the Ethereum blockchain and other compatible EVM networks like Ethereum Classic. It functions as a browser extension and a mobile app, allowing users to manage their keys, broadcast transactions, and connect securely to DApps.

Before starting, ensure you have the following essential network parameters ready to input into MetaMask:

Step-by-Step: Adding Ethereum Classic to MetaMask

Follow these instructions carefully to add the ETC network to your wallet.

Step 1: Install and Set Up MetaMask

If you haven't already, you need to install the MetaMask extension.

  1. Open your Chrome (or other Chromium-based) browser and navigate to the official MetaMask website.
  2. Click the "Download" button and select your browser from the options.
  3. Follow the prompts to add the extension to your browser.
  4. Once added, click on the MetaMask icon in your browser's toolbar.
  5. You will be presented with options to either "Create a New Wallet" or "Import an Existing Wallet." Choose the option that applies to you.
  6. If creating a new wallet, you will be given a secret recovery phrase. Write this down on paper and store it in a secure, offline location. This phrase is the only way to recover your funds if you lose access to your device. You will then be asked to confirm this phrase to finalize the setup.

Step 2: Access the Network Configuration Menu

With your MetaMask wallet unlocked, you can now access the network settings.

  1. Click on the MetaMask extension icon to open it.
  2. At the top of the pop-up window, you will see the current network you are connected to (e.g., "Ethereum Mainnet").
  3. Click on this network dropdown menu.
  4. At the bottom of the list, click "Add network."

Step 3: Manually Add the Ethereum Classic Network

You will now manually input the required ETC network details.

  1. In the "Add a network" form, you will see fields for "Network name," "New RPC URL," "Chain ID," "Currency symbol," and "Block explorer URL."

  2. Carefully enter the following information:

    • Network name: Ethereum Classic Mainnet
    • New RPC URL: https://etc.rivet.link or another reliable public RPC endpoint.
    • Chain ID: 61
    • Currency symbol: ETC
    • Block explorer URL: https://blockscout.com/etc/mainnet
  3. Double-check all the information, especially the Chain ID, to avoid losing funds.
  4. Click "Save."

Step 4: Import ETC and Other Tokens

Your MetaMask wallet is now connected to the Ethereum Classic network. The main view should now show your ETC balance. To view other Ethereum Classic-based tokens (like ERC-20 tokens), you need to import them manually.

  1. On your wallet's main asset screen, click "Import tokens."
  2. You will need the token's contract address. Find this address using a Ethereum Classic block explorer.
  3. Paste the contract address into the field in MetaMask. The other fields (Token symbol and Decimals of precision) should auto-populate.
  4. Click "Add Custom Token" and then confirm the import on the next screen.
  5. The token and your balance will now appear in your asset list.

You have successfully added the Ethereum Classic network to your MetaMask wallet and can now send, receive, and interact with ETC DApps. 👉 Explore more network setup strategies

Essential Ethereum Classic Network Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to add Ethereum Classic as a custom network?
MetaMask defaults to the Ethereum network. Adding ETC manually provides your wallet with the correct node information (RPC URL) and parameters (Chain ID) to accurately read blockchain data and broadcast transactions on the Ethereum Classic network.

Is it safe to add a custom network like Ethereum Classic?
Yes, it is safe as long as you use the correct and verified network parameters. The critical item is the Chain ID; an incorrect ID could result in transactions being broadcast on the wrong chain, leading to a permanent loss of funds. Always double-check the details from a trusted source.

What is the difference between Ethereum (ETH) and Ethereum Classic (ETC)?
They are two separate blockchains. Ethereum (ETH) is the result of a hard fork that occurred in 2016. Ethereum Classic (ETC) is the original chain that continued on, upholding the principle of "code is law." They have different histories, communities, and development roads.

Can I use the same MetaMask wallet for both ETH and ETC?
Absolutely. Your single MetaMask wallet can hold assets on dozens of different networks, including both Ethereum and Ethereum Classic. Your public address is the same across all EVM-compatible networks, but the private keys and recovery phrase remain securely in your wallet.

I added the network but my ETC balance isn't showing. What should I do?
First, ensure you are looking at the correct account and that the "Ethereum Classic Mainnet" is selected in the network dropdown. If your balance still doesn't appear, try adding your ETC public address as a custom token using its contract address, though this is typically not necessary for the native ETC currency itself.