MetaMask is a leading non-custodial wallet widely used for Ethereum and EVM-compatible blockchains. With over 100 million users, MetaMask is a go-to choice for managing crypto assets and interacting with decentralized applications (dApps). However, adding The Open Network (TON) directly to MetaMask is not feasible due to their different underlying technologies.
Introduction to The Open Network (TON)
The Open Network (TON) is a decentralized Layer 1 blockchain known for its high scalability and efficiency. Originally developed by the team behind Telegram, TON has grown rapidly, attracting over 3.5 million unique users and a 1,900% increase in daily active users. It offers fast transactions, low fees, and a robust ecosystem, making it ideal for DeFi, NFTs, and other Web3 applications. TON's integration with Telegram, which has over 800 million active users, provides a seamless experience for transactions and dApp interactions, leveraging its massive user base.
As of May 2024, TON supports over 700 decentralized applications (dApps), including marketplaces, DeFi services, and games. One example is Notcoin (NOT), a popular GameFi token within the TON ecosystem.
Learn more about Notcoin and how it works.
Why Can't You Add The Open Network (TON) Directly to MetaMask?
TON uses a unique blockchain architecture and the Catchain Consensus Protocol, which are incompatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) that MetaMask supports. This incompatibility means that TON cannot be directly integrated into MetaMask. Instead, you need to use a wallet specifically designed for TON.
Alternative TON Web3 Wallets
To manage and interact with the TON ecosystem, you should use a crypto wallet designed for The Open Network (TON). Here are some popular options:
Tonkeeper
Tonkeeper is a user-friendly wallet tailored for TON. It's available as a mobile app and browser extension. Here’s how you can get started:
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Download and Install Tonkeeper: Visit the Tonkeeper website and download the app for your device (iOS, Android, or browser extension).
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Set Up Your Wallet: Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new wallet and securely store your seed phrase. Securely store your 24-word seed phrase as it is crucial for wallet recovery. Do not store it digitally to avoid potential hacking risks.
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Add TON to Your Wallet: Once set up, you can easily receive and send TON. Use the built-in exchange to buy, sell, or swap TON for other cryptocurrencies. You can also buy Toncoin on KuCoin and transfer your tokens to your Tonkeeper wallet.
Tonkeeper is famous for its ease of use and robust security features, making it a great choice for managing TON.
OpenMask
OpenMask is another excellent option that mirrors MetaMask's functionality but is designed for TON. It includes features like:
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Biometric authentication
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Integration with Ledger hardware wallets
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Jettons and NFTs management
To use OpenMask, download the extension from the OpenMask website and follow the setup instructions.
Other Popular TON Wallets
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Trust Wallet: Supports multiple blockchains, including TON. Download the app, search for TON, and toggle it on to start managing your TON assets.
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SafePal: A multi-chain wallet supporting TON, available as a browser extension, mobile app, and hardware wallet.
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Coin98 Wallet: A multi-chain wallet that supports over 26 blockchains, including TON. It's known for its user-friendly interface and robust security features.
Using Wrapped Toncoin (TON) on MetaMask
If you still want to use MetaMask, you can add Wrapped Toncoin (TONCOIN) instead. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Get the Wrapped Toncoin Contract Address
To find the Wrapped Toncoin contract address, visit a reliable source like Etherscan or the official TON website. Copy the address for later use.
Step 2: Add Wrapped Toncoin to MetaMask
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Open MetaMask: Click on the MetaMask extension in your browser.
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Select Network: Ensure you are on the Ethereum Mainnet or another EVM-compatible network.
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Add Token: Click Import Tokens and select Custom Token.
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Paste Contract Address: Paste the Wrapped Toncoin contract address and Click Next. MetaMask will auto-fill the token symbol and decimals.
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Confirm: Click Import to finish the process.
Now, you can manage Wrapped Toncoin (TON) in your MetaMask wallet, even though it’s not the native TON token.
Will MetaMask Support TON in the Future?
MetaMask could support The Open Network (TON) through future developments like MetaMask Snaps, which aims to extend its functionality to non-EVM blockchains. This would require collaborative efforts between the TON community and developers to create a Snap specifically for TON.
Conclusion
Due to their different blockchain architectures, adding The Open Network (TON) directly to MetaMask is impossible as of May 2024. However, you can use TON-specific wallets like Tonkeeper, OpenMask, Trust Wallet, SafePal, and Coin98 to manage your TON assets and interact with the TON ecosystem. These wallets offer user-friendly interfaces and robust security, ensuring a smooth experience for TON users.
Further Reading