How to Add Filecoin to MetaMask

If you add Filecoin to MetaMask, it will allow users to easily access decentralized applications (DApps) across different blockchain ecosystems. This article provides a step-by-step guide on connecting Filecoin’s smart contract platform – Filecoin Virtual Machine (FVM) to MetaMask.

TL;DR

The Filecoin Virtual Machine (FVM) enables smart contract functionality and decentralized app development on Filecoin. This guide shows how to connect FVM to MetaMask with just a few clicks using Chainlist, or manually by providing the network details.

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Using Chainlist for a Quick and Secure Connection

Chainlist is a highly regarded Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) aggregator that streamlines the process of connecting MetaMask to more than 100 Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchains with unparalleled ease. Boasting a perfect 5/5 rating from Datawallet, Chainlist serves as a dependable aggregator of Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) networks. 

Users can confidently link their MetaMask wallets to specific Chains and Network IDs, ensuring a secure and accurate connection to the intended blockchain. The platform supports an extensive array of over 100 networks, including the likes of Filecoin, along with a roster of verified RPC endpoints. Developed by the proficient Defillama team, Chainlist is seamlessly compatible with the MetaMask wallet, making it a robust choice for a diverse range of users in the cryptocurrency space.

How to add Filecoin to Metamask through ChainList

1. Go to https://chainlist.org and connect your MetaMask wallet
2. In the search bar, type “Filecoin”
3. When “Filecoin – Mainnet” appears, click the blue “Add to MetaMask” button below it
4. A popup will appear, click “Approve” to authorize the network addition
5. Click “Switch” to transact on the Filecoin network

Manually Adding the Filecoin Network

To manually add Filecoin:

1. Click the avatar in the top right of MetaMask and select “Settings”
2. Click “Networks” and then “Add Network”
3. Enter “Filecoin – Mainnet” as the Network Name
4. Copy the RPC URL “https://api.node.glif.io“
5. Enter “314” as the Chain ID and “FIL” as the currency symbol
6. Click “Save” then “Add Network” to finish

Connecting MetaMask to a Ledger Hardware Wallet for Added Security

For users seeking an extra layer of security, connecting MetaMask to a Ledger hardware wallet is a highly recommended option. By storing your private keys on a physical device, you can protect your funds from potential online threats such as hacking attempts or malware.

To connect your Ledger device to MetaMask:

1. Install the Filecoin app on your Ledger device through Ledger Live

2. Open the Filecoin app on your Ledger and enable “Expert mode”

3. In MetaMask, select “Connect Hardware Wallet” from the accounts menu

4. Choose “Ledger” and select the desired Filecoin account

5. Confirm the connection on your Ledger device

By following these steps, you can securely manage your Filecoin assets using MetaMask while benefiting from the added protection provided by a Ledger hardware wallet.

Filecoin Virtual Machine (FVM)

FVM brings smart contract functionality to Filecoin, allowing developers to build various decentralized applications. It utilizes the Ethereum Virtual Machine, enabling seamless integration with EVM-compatible wallets like MetaMask.

Some key advantages of FVM include:

• Potential for open data economies and programmable value transfers
• Creation of data DAOs, storage protocols, insurance protocols and more
• Cross-chain interoperability through bridges between Filecoin and other networks
• Decentralized computation capabilities

Applications Being Built on Filecoin

With smart contracts now possible on Filecoin through FVM, many web3 projects are leveraging the network’s decentralized storage capabilities:

• Permanent.Storage – NFT storage protocol providing permanent URLs for digital art
• Web3 foundation – Building open infrastructure including IPFS integration
• Lens Protocol – NFT social media platform using Filecoin for decentralized image storage
• Storedot – Decentralized cloud storage network

Conclusion

In summary, adding Filecoin’s FVM network to MetaMask unlocks opportunities to participate in the growing Filecoin ecosystem. Through robust platforms like Chainlist, it only takes a few clicks to configure Filecoin support. This paves the way for users to access cutting-edge DApps leveraging Filecoin’s scalable decentralized storage layer.