Switching Metamask Wallet Networks: A ReactJS Approach

With the rise of decentralized applications (dApps), managing wallet connections is becoming increasingly important. When it comes to switching between different wallet networks, such as Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Arbitrum, the options can be overwhelming. In this article, we will explore how to change your Metamask wallet in ReactJS.

Why Switch Wallet?

Switching wallets ensures that your dApp remains connected to the most up-to-date network, reducing the risk of wallet crashes or failed connections. This is especially important for Ethereum-based dApps like Blocknative that use Ethers.js as their library of choice.

Metamask Configuration

To change Metamask networks, you will need to update your metamask.json file. The basic structure remains the same:

{
"defaultChain": {
"name": "mainnet",
"chainId": 1,
"networks": [
{
"name": "ethereum",
"chainId": 0,
"url": "
},
{
"name": "binanceSmartChain",
"chainId": 42,
"url": "
}
]
},
"wallets": [
{
"name": "my_wallet",
"type": "metamask"
}
],
"key": ""
}

Change Wallet Network

To change networks, you will need to update the defaultChain configuration and provide a new network URL. Here is an example:

{
"defaultChain": {
"name": "mainnet",
"chainId": 1,
"networks": [
{
"name": "ethereum",
"chainId": 0,
"url": "
},
{
"name": "binanceSmartChain",
"chainId": 42,
"url": "
}
]
},
"wallets": [
{
"name": "my_wallet",
"type": "metamask"
}
],
"key": ""
}

Switch to a new network

To switch to a new network, update the defaultChain configuration and remove the Ethereum network:

{
"defaultChain": {
"name": "binanceSmartChain",
"chainId": 42,
"url": "
},
"wallets": [
{
"name": "my_wallet",
"type": "metamask"
}
],
"key": ""
}

Implement a network switch

For a more robust solution, you can implement a network switch using Metamask’s switchNetwork method. This allows you to switch between networks in a more centralized way.

import { Metamask } from 'metamask-react';
const metamask = new metamask({});
// Switch to Binance Smart Chain (mainnet)
metamask.switchNetwork('binance-smart-chain', 42);
// Back to Ethereum (mainnet)
metamask.switchNetwork('ethereum', 0);

Conclusion

Switching from a wallet to Metamask in ReactJS can be a simple process, especially with the introduction of the switchNetwork method. However, it is important to update the metamask.json file and provide a new network URL for each wallet change.

By following this guide, you should be able to easily switch networks between different Metamask wallets in ReactJS. Remember to always keep your Metamask key safe and follow best practices when managing wallet connections.