How to Add Base to MetaMask
To trade on Base you first add it to your wallet as a custom network. It takes under a minute, and because Base is a widely-used Coinbase L2, many wallets already list it as a preset. Below are the exact settings, a step-by-step for MetaMask, and the safer one-click alternative that adds the network for you.
The network settings you need
- Network name: Base
- New RPC URL: https://mainnet.base.org
- Chain ID: 8453 (hex 0x2105)
- Currency symbol: ETH
- Block explorer URL: https://basescan.org
Step-by-step in MetaMask
Open MetaMask and click the network selector at the top-left (it usually shows your current network, e.g. 'Ethereum Mainnet'). Newer MetaMask builds ship Base as a popular preset — search 'Base' in the network list and enable it in one tap. If you don't see it, choose 'Add a custom network' (older versions: Settings → Networks → Add a network → Add manually).
Fill in the five fields above exactly, then Save. MetaMask validates the chain ID against the RPC — if it complains, double-check the RPC URL has no trailing space and that the chain ID is 8453. Once saved, select Base from the network list and your balance and activity will switch to that chain.
Get ETH onto Base for gas
Base runs on ETH, and because it's an L2 you need only a little — gas is typically cents. You can bridge ETH from Ethereum mainnet or another L2 using the official Base bridge, or withdraw ETH directly to the Base network from Coinbase and many exchanges, which often skip the bridging step entirely. Keep a small ETH buffer beyond your trade size so you can always sign a sell.
The easier way: let the terminal add it
Typing network settings by hand is error-prone. A purpose-built terminal like DOT detects that your wallet isn't on Base and prompts your wallet to add and switch to it in one click, using the exact verified parameters. You approve the standard MetaMask 'Allow this site to add a network?' prompt — no manual typing, no typos.
This is also safer: you're approving a network-add prompt in your own wallet, not pasting an RPC from a random search result. Always confirm the chain ID reads 8453 and the currency is ETH before approving.
DOT adds and switches your wallet to Base in one click, then drops you into the live trenches feed.
Add it & start trading →Frequently asked questions
What is the RPC URL for Base?
https://mainnet.base.org is the primary public RPC for Base mainnet. Add it in MetaMask as the 'New RPC URL' when creating the custom network.
What is the Base chain ID for MetaMask?
8453, which is 0x2105 in hexadecimal. Enter 8453 in the Chain ID field.
What currency symbol should I use for Base?
ETH. Base is an EVM Layer-2 that pays gas in ether, so the native currency symbol is ETH with 18 decimals.
How do I get ETH onto Base?
Bridge ETH from Ethereum or another L2 via the official Base bridge, or withdraw ETH directly to the Base network from Coinbase or another exchange that supports Base withdrawals. You only need a little — L2 gas is pennies.
Is it safe to add Base to MetaMask?
Adding a network only tells your wallet where to send transactions — it doesn't grant access to your funds. Use the official RPC (https://mainnet.base.org) and confirm the chain ID reads 8453 and the currency is ETH before approving.