What is Chainlist? A Comprehensive Guide to Using the Blockchain Network Management Tool

In the increasingly expanding Web3 world with hundreds of blockchains operating in parallel, connecting an electronic wallet to the correct network plays an extremely important role. ChainList was created as a solution to simplify this process, helping Web3 users easily connect to EVM-compatible networks with just a few clicks. So specifically, what is ChainList, why is it important, and how is it used? Let's explore the details in the article below.

What is ChainList?

ChainList is an open-source Web3 platform built to list all blockchain networks compatible with EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine), while allowing users to easily add these networks to Non-Custodial wallets like MetaMask, Rabby, Coinbase Wallet,...

Each EVM blockchain (such as Ethereum, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, BNB Chain, Base, Blast,...) will have its own set of information: Chain ID, Network name, RPC URL, Currency symbol, and Block Explorer URL. Instead of manually searching, ChainList automates this process.

Why is ChainList important?

Solving the "network mismatch" problem in Web3: If you've ever encountered the "Chain ID not recognized" error when using a dApp or electronic wallet, you'll understand the frustration of configuring the wrong network. ChainList helps eliminate this risk.

Saving time and reducing errors: You no longer need to copy each network parameter. With ChainList, everything is verified by the community and automatically reviewed.

Security and transparency: Network data on ChainList is verified by the Web3 community (over 100K contributors), so the risk of encountering fake parameters is almost zero.

How does ChainList work?

ChainList operates as an EVM network data aggregator, continuously updated by the community and managed by Web3 developers.

The main steps when using are as follows:

• Users connect a Web3 wallet like MetaMask.
• Search for the network to be added (e.g., zkSync, Arbitrum, Base). Click "Add to Wallet" → Approve in wallet → Complete.
• Data such as Chain ID, RPC URL, and Explorer will be accurately added to the wallet in just a few seconds.

Detailed guide to using ChainList

Step 1: Connect wallet

• Access the website at: ChainList
• Click on the "Connect Wallet" icon in the top right corner.

Step 2: Search for network

• After connecting the wallet, enter the network name in the search bar and click "Add to MetaMask" under each option.

Step 3: Confirm connection

• A notification box will appear, click "Approve" to automatically add the network to MetaMask.

Outstanding features of ChainList

• User-friendly interface that even Web3 newcomers can master.
• Rich network database with over 1,000+ Chain IDs continuously updated, including both testnet and mainnet.
• Supports multiple wallets, not just MetaMask, but also compatible with Rabby Wallet, Coinbase Wallet, Frame, etc.
• Open-source and transparent as ChainList is built by the Web3 community and completely open-source on GitHub

Who should use ChainList?

• DeFi users: Always need to quickly connect to new chains to interact with yield farming, swapping, lending, etc.
• Web3 developers: Easily add testnet networks during dApp development.
• Traders and investors: Trade tokens on emerging chains without manually searching for RPC URLs.
• Web3 beginners: Improve user experience and avoid errors when setting up networks.

Notes when using ChainList

• Always verify the official website address is chainlist.org to avoid phishing.
• Do not paste unfamiliar RPC URLs if not verified on ChainList.
• Prioritize using Chain IDs verified by the community (will display a green tick).
• Do not share seed phrases – ChainList does not require entering recovery phrases.

Summary

In the current multi-chain Web3 ecosystem, ChainList plays the role of an indispensable network management assistant for anyone using crypto wallets. Thanks to its intuitive interface, transparent data updates, and ability to add networks with just one click, ChainList helps save time, reduce errors, and enhance the experience when using dApps across different chains.

If you frequently need to connect your wallet to interact with DeFi, Non-Fungible Token, Staking, or testnet, bookmarking ChainList will be essential. Hope this article has been helpful to Allinstation's readers!