While MetaMask is one of the most popular crypto wallets for interacting with Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks, it does not natively support the Polkadot blockchain. In this guide, we will discuss how to add Polkadot to Metamask to access the network’s growing ecosystem of DeFi applications, NFT markets, and more.
Can You Add Polkadot to MetaMask?
MetaMask does not support Polkadot due to infrastructure differences. However, you can easily access Polkadot by downloading the Parity Signer mobile or desktop wallet. Following a simple setup process, Parity Signer allows you to store DOT, connect to Polkadot dapps, and explore the expanding ecosystem.
Parity Signer – The Leading Polkadot Wallet
Parity Signer is a mobile and desktop wallet developed by Parity Technologies specifically for the Polkadot network. It is available as a mobile app on iOS and Android as well as a desktop browser extension.
- Rating: 4.7/5 stars on Google Play with over 50k downloads
- Description: Securely manage DOT and interact with DeFi protocols, NFT markets and more from your mobile device
- Features: Support for Polkadot, Kusama, artistic chains, hardware wallet integration and remote signing
Parity Signer offers a simple and secure way to store your Polkadot assets. With advanced functionality like hardware wallet compatibility and remote signing, it is also suitable for more advanced users.
Guide to Add Polkadot to Parity Signer
- Download the Parity Signer mobile app from the App Store or Google Play
- Create a new wallet or import an existing seed phrase
- Deposit funds: Send DOT to your Parity Signer address from an exchange or other wallet
- Connect to dapps: You can now access Polkadot Defi protocols and applications
- Explore networks: Parity Signer supports Polkadot, Kusama and custom parachains
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a Polkadot wallet to engage with the growing ecosystem. Let’s now explore some key details about Polkadot.
What is Polkadot?
Polkadot is an interoperability blockchain network founded by Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood. It uses a protocol called parachains to enable efficient cross-chain transfers between separate blockchains.
- Advantages: High throughput, scalability, and interoperability with multiple blockchains
- Security: Validators lock up DOT to secure the network through Nominated Proof-of-Stake (NPOS)
- Backing: Funded by teams like Web3 Foundation, Polychain Capital and more
- Applications: From DeFi platforms like Acala to marketplaces like Voltaire
Polkadot’s innovative architecture allows it to perform thousands of transactions per second, as compared to Ethereum’s 15 TPS currently. This scalability helps drive adoption of parachain projects.
Explore the Polkadot Ecosystem
With Parity Signer, you can begin exploring Polkadot’s growing number of Defi applications, decentralized exchanges, NFT platforms, and more:
- Acala: A decentralized stablecoin platform and lending protocol
- Moonbeam: An Ethereum-compatible smart contract parachain
- Polkastarter: An IDO launchpad for new parachain projects
- Manta Network: A permissionless inter-blockchain communication platform
- Litentry: A decentralized identity hub leveraging Polkadot security
From blue-chip projects to innovative startups, Polkadot’s unique architecture continues attracting builders and investors to its expanding ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
While MetaMask remains the dominant Ethereum wallet currently, Parity Signer provides a full-featured mobile and desktop wallet for interacting with Polkadot. By downloading Parity Signer, users can now access DOT, explore the growing number of applications, and take advantage of Polkadot’s promise of scalable interoperability between independent blockchains. With robust security features and a commitment to ecosystem growth, Parity Signer is the best way to hold, use and manage DOT.
