MetaMask network switch failed. Is the chain ID filled in correctly?

To fix MetaMask's network switch failure, ensure the chain ID is correct; Ethereum Mainnet uses 1, Ropsten 3, and Binance Smart Chain 56. Always check official docs for accuracy.

May 12, 2025 at 02:21 pm

Understanding the MetaMask Network Switch Failure

When users encounter a MetaMask network switch failed error, it often leads to frustration and confusion. One of the primary reasons behind this issue could be an incorrect chain ID. The chain ID is a unique identifier for each blockchain network, and MetaMask uses it to connect to the correct network. If the chain ID is not filled in correctly, MetaMask will fail to switch to the desired network. Let's delve into the specifics of how to check and correct the chain ID to resolve this issue.

Checking the Chain ID in MetaMask

To verify whether the chain ID is filled in correctly, users need to access the network settings within MetaMask. Here's how you can do it:

• Open the MetaMask extension or mobile app.
• Click on the network dropdown menu at the top of the interface.
• Select 'Custom RPC' or the specific network you are trying to connect to.
• Look for the 'Chain ID' field. If it's empty or filled with an incorrect value, this could be the root of the problem.

The chain ID must be a numerical value that corresponds to the blockchain network you are trying to connect to. For example, Ethereum Mainnet uses the chain ID 1, while the Ropsten testnet uses the chain ID 3.

Correcting the Chain ID

If you find that the chain ID is incorrect or missing, you can correct it by following these steps:

• Navigate to the network settings as described above.
• In the 'Chain ID' field, enter the correct numerical value for the network you wish to connect to.
• Save the changes and try switching to the network again.

Make sure to double-check the chain ID against the official documentation of the network to avoid entering an incorrect value.

Common Chain IDs for Popular Networks

To help you with the process, here are some common chain IDs for popular networks:

• Ethereum Mainnet: Chain ID 1
• Ropsten Testnet: Chain ID 3
• Rinkeby Testnet: Chain ID 4
• Goerli Testnet: Chain ID 5
• Kovan Testnet: Chain ID 42
• Binance Smart Chain: Chain ID 56
• Polygon (Matic) Mainnet: Chain ID 137

Always refer to the official network documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date chain IDs.

Troubleshooting Other Potential Issues

Even if the chain ID is correct, there might be other reasons why MetaMask fails to switch networks. Here are some additional troubleshooting steps:

• Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is crucial for MetaMask to communicate with the blockchain network.
• Clear cache and cookies: Sometimes, cached data can interfere with MetaMask's functionality. Clearing your browser's cache and cookies might help.
• Update MetaMask: Ensure you are using the latest version of MetaMask, as outdated versions may have bugs that cause network switching issues.
• Check for network congestion: High network traffic can sometimes prevent MetaMask from successfully switching networks. Try again after some time if you suspect this is the issue.

Verifying Network Connection After Switching

After correcting the chain ID and successfully switching networks, it's important to verify that MetaMask is indeed connected to the correct network. Here's how you can do it:

• Check the network name in the top right corner of the MetaMask interface. It should match the network you intended to switch to.
• Try performing a simple action like sending a test transaction or checking your balance to confirm that MetaMask is interacting with the correct network.

If you encounter any further issues, revisit the chain ID and other settings to ensure everything is configured correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I manually enter a chain ID for a custom network in MetaMask?

A: Yes, you can manually enter a chain ID for a custom network. When adding a custom RPC network, you'll find a field where you can input the chain ID. Ensure you use the correct numerical value as specified by the network's documentation.

Q: What should I do if the network I want to connect to is not listed in MetaMask's default options?

A: If the network is not listed, you can add it manually by selecting 'Custom RPC' from the network dropdown menu. You'll need to provide the network name, RPC URL, chain ID, and optionally the symbol and block explorer URL.

Q: Is there a way to check the chain ID of the network I'm currently connected to in MetaMask?

A: Yes, you can check the chain ID of the current network by going to the network settings. Click on the network dropdown menu, select the current network, and the chain ID will be displayed in the settings.

Q: Can incorrect chain IDs cause issues other than network switching failures in MetaMask?

A: Yes, incorrect chain IDs can lead to other issues such as transaction failures or incorrect balance displays. It's crucial to ensure the chain ID is correct to avoid these problems.