This guide shows how to connect your MetaMask wallet to the Moonriver network in just a few steps, allowing you to access innovative DApps like Acala, UniWhales, and Parallel.
Moonriver Overview
Moonriver is an Ethereum-compatible smart contract platform built on the fast-growing Kusama network. It uses the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), meaning smart contracts written for Ethereum can easily run on Moonriver. This allows developers to deploy Ethereum decentralized applications (DApps) and DeFi protocols to Moonriver.
As a canary network for its sister blockchain Moonbeam on Polkadot, Moonriver aims to provide developers with a secure and economic environment to test new innovations before deploying them on Moonbeam. It currently supports over $500 million in total value locked (TVL).
How to Add Moonriver to Metamask
Setting up MetaMask
MetaMask is a popular crypto wallet that allows users to access Ethereum-compatible networks directly from their browser. To add Moonriver, you’ll first need to install the MetaMask extension and set up your wallet.
Here are the quick steps:
- Visit metamask.io and click “Add to Chrome.”
- Install the MetaMask extension and follow the prompts to set up your wallet.
- Ensure MetaMask is connected to your browsing session by clicking its extension icon.
Now that MetaMask is installed, let’s connect it to the Moonriver network.
Adding the Moonriver Network
To add Moonriver’s network details to MetaMask, follow these steps:
- Click on your profile picture in the top-right of MetaMask and select “Settings.”
- Click “Networks” and then “Add Network.”
- Enter the following Node Configuration details:
- Network Name: Moonriver
- New RPC URL: https://rpc.api.moonriver.moonbeam.network
- ChainID: 1285
- Currency Symbol: MOVR
- Block Explorer URL: https://moonriver.moonscan.io/
- Click “Save” and Moonriver should now display as an available network in MetaMask.
- Switch to the Moonriver Mainnet to begin interacting with apps and protocols.
You’ll now be able to access Moonriver DApps directly from MetaMask as well as view your MOVR token balances. Let’s explore some key aspects of Moonriver.
What Makes Moonriver Unique?
Some distinct features that make Moonriver stand out include:
- EVM Compatibility: Allows seamless deployment of Ethereum tools and DApps with little to no modifications.
- Scalability: Leverages Kusama’s upgraded consensus algorithm Proof-of-Stake to process thousands of transactions per second.
- Innovation: Acts as an incubator for experimental innovations to be tested before moving to Polkadot/Kusama’s mainnets.
- Interoperability: As a Kusama parachain, Moonriver enables cross-chain messaging and token transfers with other connected blockchains.
- Security: Benefits from Kusama’s extensive validator network securing the shared security of parachains.
Popular DApps on Moonriver
Now that Moonriver is added to MetaMask, users can access a variety of decentralized applications such as:
- Moonswap: A leading DEX for swapping MOVR and other tokens with low fees.
- Plasm Network: An optimistic rollup scalability solution live on Moonriver, capable of thousands of transactions per second.
- Bright ID: A self-sovereign identity platform focusing on privacy and user control.
- StablePay: A stablecoin payments platform using algorithmic stablecoin mUSD to facilitate low-cost transactions.
- MAP Protocol: A meta chain protocol layer with a focus on bridging assets across chains.
Concluding Thoughts
With its robust infrastructure and EVM compatibility, Moonriver shows strong potential to drive growth and innovation in Kusama. Now integrated seamlessly into MetaMask, it’s easier than ever for developers and users to participate fully in this innovative smart contract blockchain ecosystem. Connecting MetaMask to Moonriver unlocks access to DeFi and Web3 applications on one of crypto’s fastest-growing platforms.
I hope this guide has helped explain the process of adding Moonriver to MetaMask clearly. Feel free to reach out if you need any additional help connecting your wallet.
