Astar Network is a layer 1 blockchain built for decentralized applications. It offers high throughput, low fees, and EVM compatibility. MetaMask is a popular crypto wallet available as a browser extension. To use Astar dApps and tokens with MetaMask, you need to add the Astar network.
Can You Add Astar to Metamask?
Yes, you can easily integrate Astar Network with your MetaMask wallet. Astar stands out by being compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) while incorporating specialized layer-2 solutions for heightened security and lightning-fast transaction speeds. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to manage Astar’s native tokens like ASTR directly within your MetaMask wallet. This seamless integration opens up exciting possibilities for both users and developers who seek to harness the power of high-performance, cost-efficient decentralized applications.
Quick Guide: Add Astar Network to Metemask
- Install the MetaMask extension
- Click “Settings” and then “Networks”
- Click “Add Network” and input the Astar details
- Select Astar from the network list
- Transfer ASTR tokens to your wallet
What is Astar Network?
Astar Network is a sharded Proof-of-Stake blockchain that runs on WebAssembly. It utilizes Roland’s sharding technique to scale throughput while maintaining security. Astar supports EVM smart contracts and aims to provide developers an ecosystem for building scalable dApps.
Some key features of Astar Network include utilizing sharding to achieve ultra-high TPS of over 10,000, near-zero fees compared to Ethereum gas fees, support for Solidity and EVM compatibility. Astar is backed by major investors like Paradigm and IDEO. Its sharding architecture allows horizontal scaling of throughput as the network grows.
By supporting WebAssembly, it enhances compatibility and the developer experience. Astar’s point sharding protocol provides higher security compared to other sharding techniques. The team includes skilled talents from companies like Microsoft and Alibaba. It also supports integration with other blockchains like Ethereum, Polkadot and Cosmos through its bridge functionality, and is compatible with wallets like MetaMask, imToken and TokenPocket.
Adding Astar to MetaMask Step By Step
Now, follow these steps to connect MetaMask to the Astar mainnet:
- Install the MetaMask browser extension from the Chrome Web Store if not already done.
- Access your MetaMask wallet and click the “Networks” option under Settings in the upper right corner.
- Click “Add Network” and input the following details:
- Network Name: Astar
- New RPC URL: https://rpc.astar.network/
- Chain ID: 592
- Currency Symbol: ASTR
- Block Explorer URL: https://astar.subscan.io
- Click “Save” and the Astar mainnet should now display in your network list.
- You can now start interacting with Astar dApps directly from MetaMask!
Astar Network Features in Depth
Through its innovative use of sharding, Astar is able to achieve throughput that outpaces other smart contract platforms. By fragmenting the network into “shards” that can process transactions in parallel, Astar scales linearly as more shards are utilized. This contrasts with blockchains like Ethereum which only scale vertically by increasing block size.
Astar’s unique implementation of Roland’s Point Sharding protocol advances sharding security. Each shard has its own stake-based PoS consensus and can operate independently. This separation prevents cross-shard vulnerabilities and allows Astar to maintain security even as it scales to over 10,000 TPS.
The network’s low transaction fees make it a cost-effective platform for dApps and decentralized services. With costs often under $0.01 per transaction, Astar removes barriers that high “gas” fees on Ethereum impose. This achieves greater accessibility and fosters more robust network effects.
For developers, Astar’s EVM and WebAssembly compatibility expands its toolkit. Solidity developers can port existing Ethereum apps with minimal friction while harnessing Astar’s improved scaling. WebAssembly also smooths integration of other languages like C++, Rust and near-native performance.
Popular Astar Applications
Some top decentralized applications currently utilizing the Astar blockchain include:
- Stargaze – A Ethereum-compatible NFT marketplace.
- Cometh – A decentralized prediction market platform.
- Doggy DAO – A meme and charity focused DAO.
- Mysten – A privacy-preserving smart contract platform.
- MultiBaas – A blockchain abstraction layer for dApp devs.
Getting Test ASTR
Since ASTR has value, you’ll need test tokens to experiment with Astar dApps without risking real funds.
Top options to get Astar testnet ASTR include:
- Astar Testnet Faucet
- Moonbeam Testnet Bridge (transfer MOVR to Astar)
- Participating in Hackathons and Bug Bounty Programs
Add Astar dApps to MetaMask
To fully interact with Astar dApps, connect MetaMask using one of these common methods:
- Connect to DApp button
- Calling eth.requestAccounts in Javascript
- Checking if window.ethereum is available
- Redirecting to MetaMask authentication popup
Best Practices for Security
Follow these tips to keep your MetaMask and Astar funds safe:
- Enable security features like password, 2FA
- Use strong, unique passwords
- Only connect to known, reputable Astar dApps
- Be wary of phishing scams and never share recovery phrases
- Keep MetaMask and OS software up to date
- Store large holdings in hardware wallets when possible
Conclusion
In conclusion, this guide has provided you with straightforward steps to seamlessly connect your MetaMask wallet to the Astar blockchain. By following these simple instructions, you’ve gained access to a robust and innovative ecosystem that Astar Network offers. With its high throughput, low fees, and EVM compatibility, Astar opens up exciting possibilities for both developers and users in the world of decentralized applications.
By connecting MetaMask to Astar, you’re taking a step into a decentralized future filled with innovation and endless possibilities. So, start exploring, building, and enjoying the benefits of this dynamic blockchain ecosystem!
