Merlin Chain is a Layer 2 scaling solution for Bitcoin, designed to enhance the network's efficiency and scalability. Utilizing zero-knowledge rollups (ZK-Rollup), Merlin Chain batches transactions and submits them to the Bitcoin network for validation, ensuring high performance while retaining Bitcoin's security. The native token, MERL, is used for staking, paying transaction fees, and as collateral within the Merlin ecosystem.
MetaMask is a popular non-custodial Web3 wallet known for its user-friendly interface and compatibility with Ethereum and other EVM-compatible blockchains. It provides users with secure storage and management of their crypto assets, and its broad adoption makes it an excellent choice for interacting with various decentralized applications (dApps) and networks, including Merlin Chain.
Installing and Setting Up MetaMask
To get started with MetaMask, download the extension for your browser from the official MetaMask website. Follow the setup wizard to create a new wallet, set a strong password, and securely back up your seed phrase. This seed phrase is crucial for wallet recovery and should be stored safely. Once set up, MetaMask is ready to interact with various blockchain networks.
Here’s a guide to help you create a new MetaMask wallet.
Adding Merlin Chain to MetaMask with RPC URL
This step-by-step guide will help you add the Bitcoin Layer-2 Merlin Chain network to your MetaMask wallet using the RPC URL information:
Step 1: Open MetaMask
Launch your MetaMask wallet and click on the network dropdown at the top.
Step 2: Add Network
Select Add network at the bottom of the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Enter Merlin Chain Network Details
Choose Add a network manually and fill in the following details:
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Network Name: Merlin Mainnet
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RPC URL: https://rpc.merlinchain.io
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Chain ID: 4200
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Currency Symbol: BTC
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Block Explorer URL: https://scan.merlinchain.io
Step 4: Save Network Details
Click Save to add Merlin Chain to your MetaMask networks’ list. You can now switch to the Merlin network within MetaMask.
Adding Merlin Chain to MetaMask via ChainList
While the RPC URL method is quite manually intensive, you can also automate the process of adding Merlin Chain to your MetaMask wallet via ChainList.
ChainList automates the process, reducing the risk of errors associated with manually entering network details. This automation ensures that all the necessary information is accurately added with just a few clicks, saving time and effort. Additionally, ChainList provides a verified and user-friendly interface, making it easier for users, especially beginners, to connect to new networks securely and efficiently. Here’s a straightforward way to use ChainList to add Merlin Chain to the MetaMask wallet:
Step 1: Visit ChainList
Go to the ChainList website.
Step 2: Connect Wallet
Click Connect Wallet in the top right corner and approve the connection to your MetaMask wallet.
Step 3: Search for Merlin Chain
Use the search bar to find Merlin Mainnet and confirm the network details (Chain ID: 4200).
Step 4: Add to MetaMask
Click Add to MetaMask and approve the transaction request. This method simplifies adding new networks by automating the process and reducing the risk of errors.
Using MetaMask on Merlin Chain
With MetaMask connected to Merlin Chain, you can manage your MERL tokens, interact with Merlin-based dApps, and explore DeFi opportunities. This includes staking MERL for rewards, participating in governance, and using Merlin's DeFi applications for lending, borrowing, and liquidity provision. Ensure you have sufficient MERL tokens to pay gas fees when using the Merlin Chain network. You can buy Merlin Chain tokens on KuCoin and transfer them to your wallet before getting started.
Conclusion
Adding Merlin Chain to MetaMask enhances your ability to interact with this innovative Layer 2 solution on Bitcoin. By following the steps outlined, you can seamlessly connect to Merlin Chain, manage your assets, and explore its rich ecosystem of applications. Stay updated for further developments and potential integrations to make your crypto experience even more robust.
By integrating Merlin Chain into your MetaMask wallet, you gain access to a high-performance network that leverages Bitcoin's security, offering a versatile and efficient platform for your crypto experience.
Further Reading
FAQs on Adding Merlin Chain to MetaMask
1. Why Can't I See Merlin Chain in the MetaMask Network List?
MetaMask does not have Merlin Chain pre-installed because it's not an Ethereum-based network by default. You can add Merlin Chain using RPC details manually or through ChainList to enable MetaMask to interact with the Merlin network.
2. What Details Do I Need to Manually Add Merlin Chain to MetaMask?
To manually add Merlin Chain, you need the following details: Network Name (Merlin Mainnet), RPC URL (https://rpc.merlinchain.io), Chain ID (4200), Currency Symbol (BTC), and Block Explorer URL (https://scan.merlinchain.io). These parameters help MetaMask connect to Merlin Chain properly.
3. Can I Use MetaMask on Merlin Chain to Access dApps and DeFi Services?
Yes, once Merlin Chain is added to MetaMask, you can use it to manage your MERL tokens, interact with Merlin-based dApps, and explore DeFi opportunities such as staking, lending, and liquidity provision on the Merlin network. This integration allows you to fully utilize the capabilities of Merlin Chain.