A Leading Wallet Platform Launches A "Custom Mainnet" Feature to Simplify the Process of Adding New Mainnets

A prominent cryptocurrency wallet platform (Previously BitKeep) has introduced the "Custom Mainnet" feature, a significant advancement designed to streamline the process of adding new blockchain networks to users' wallets. Traditionally, adding custom mainnets required users to manually input multiple technical parameters including RPC addresses, chain names, and chain IDs—a tedious and error-prone process. This new feature addresses these pain points by integrating a built-in ChainList supporting over 300 EVM-compatible networks and automating much of the configuration process.

The introduction of this feature comes at a strategic moment, particularly as the Ethereum ecosystem continues to expand with various fork chains and layer-2 solutions. For users interested in accessing tokens from new chains or participating in emerging blockchain ecosystems, the simplified mainnet addition process provides significant convenience and reduces technical barriers to entry.

What is the "Custom Mainnet" used for?

The "Custom Mainnet" feature serves as a solution for wallet users seeking to access blockchain networks beyond those pre-configured in the wallet's standard settings. While most cryptocurrency wallets typically support 50-100 mainstream networks such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and major blockchain platforms, the blockchain ecosystem encompasses thousands of EVM-compatible and non-EVM networks. This feature enables users to extend their wallet's capabilities to include niche, new, or specialized networks that may not be included in the wallet's default configuration.

The wallet platform currently supports over 70 mainstream networks, addressing the needs of the majority of users. However, many users seek access to additional EVM-compatible chains for various reasons: participating in emerging DeFi protocols, accessing new layer-2 solutions, obtaining fork tokens, or interacting with specialized blockchain ecosystems. This raises the important question: can you add a chain to any wallet? The answer is that with a custom mainnet feature, users can significantly expand their wallet's network capabilities. Without this functionality, users would need to manually research and input technical parameters for each new network, a process that frequently results in errors. The custom mainnet functionality democratizes access to the broader blockchain ecosystem, allowing both novice and experienced users to seamlessly integrate new networks into their wallet without requiring extensive technical knowledge.

Highlights of the "Custom Mainnet" Feature

The implementation of the custom mainnet feature incorporates three key advantages that differentiate it from competitors:

Built-in ChainList with 300+ EVM-Compatible Networks

The wallet includes an integrated ChainList database containing over 300 EVM-compatible networks. Rather than requiring users to manually search for and verify network parameters across multiple sources, users can simply search for their desired network by name through an intuitive search interface. This approach eliminates the tedious process of scrolling through extensive lists or visiting external websites to gather network information. The comprehensive nature of this database means that most users will find their desired networks without requiring manual entry.

Automated Parameter Retrieval Function

For networks not included in the built-in ChainList or in situations where users have verified information about a specific network, the feature includes a "Retrieve" button that automates data population. Users need only input the RPC (Remote Procedure Call) address—the most critical parameter—and the system automatically retrieves and populates all remaining required data including chain ID, currency symbol, and block explorer URL. This approach virtually eliminates configuration errors caused by manual data entry mistakes, which previously represented a common failure point in the custom network addition process.

Seamless DApp Integration

The wallet supports over 15,000 decentralized applications across multiple networks. The wallet's interface intelligently detects when a user attempts to access a DApp deployed on a network not currently configured in their wallet. Rather than requiring users to navigate back to wallet settings to add the network, the system presents a convenient pop-up prompt allowing users to add the required network with a single tap. This contextual integration significantly improves user experience and reduces friction when exploring new blockchain ecosystems.

How to add a custom mainnet? (Mobile Application)

The process of adding a custom mainnet through the mobile application involves several straightforward steps, demonstrated here using the Shiden network as an example:

Step 1: Access the Mainnet Selection Interface Launch the wallet application on your mobile device. Locate the "ALL" button in the upper right corner of the interface and tap it. This action opens the mainnet selection screen where all currently configured networks are displayed along with options to add new networks.

Step 2: Navigate to Custom Mainnet Options On the mainnet selection screen, tap "Add a Mainnet." This reveals a list of options including pre-configured networks and custom network options. Select "Custom Mainnet" and scroll down until you locate "View All Custom Mainnets," then tap this option to access the full custom network management interface.

Step 3: Add the Network Manually In the upper right corner of the custom mainnets display, tap "Add manually." This opens a form where you can input network parameters. Enter the RPC address for your desired network—this is typically the only parameter you need to input manually. Once entered, tap the "Retrieve" button to automatically populate the remaining fields including chain ID, network name, currency symbol, and block explorer information. After verification, enter your wallet password to confirm the addition.

Step 4: Verification and Completion Return to the wallet's landing page. You will now see the newly added mainnet and its native token displayed in your wallet's network list, ready for immediate use.

How to add a custom mainnet? (Chrome Extension)

The process for adding custom mainnets through the Chrome Extension follows a similar workflow adapted for the browser interface:

Step 1: Access Network Configuration Open the wallet Chrome Extension. In the upper left corner of the extension interface, click on the currently selected mainnet name. This reveals a dropdown menu containing all configured networks and network management options. Select "Custom Net" to access custom network configuration tools.

Step 2: Browse and Select from Pre-configured Networks The custom net interface displays a comprehensive list of available networks that can be added to your wallet. Browse through this list and check the checkbox next to any network you wish to add. This approach allows users to add multiple networks simultaneously without requiring manual parameter entry for common chains.

Step 3: Manual Addition for Unlisted Networks If you cannot locate your desired network in the available list, click "Add manually" in the interface. Enter the RPC address for your network in the provided field. Click the "Retrieve" button to automatically populate all remaining network parameters. The system will fetch and populate the chain ID, network name, native currency symbol, and other essential configuration details.

Step 4: Confirmation and Integration Click "Confirm" to complete the network addition process. The extension will redirect you to the wallet home page where you can immediately verify that the newly added mainnet is now displayed in the network selector in the upper left corner. The network's native token will also be automatically added to your token list.

Conclusion

The "Custom Mainnet" feature represents a significant improvement in wallet usability and blockchain accessibility. By integrating a comprehensive 300+ network database, implementing automated parameter retrieval, and providing contextual network addition prompts during DApp interactions, the feature dramatically simplifies what was previously a complex and error-prone process. This addresses the important question of whether you can add a chain to any wallet—with this feature, users can now extend their wallet's capabilities far beyond pre-configured networks. This innovation is particularly valuable given the rapidly expanding blockchain ecosystem, where new networks, layer-2 solutions, and specialized chains continue to proliferate. Whether users are seeking access to emerging DeFi protocols, attempting to collect fork tokens, or exploring new blockchain ecosystems, this feature provides the technical infrastructure necessary to navigate the multi-chain future of cryptocurrency. As the blockchain space continues to evolve and diversify, features like this become increasingly essential for creating inclusive, user-friendly wallet solutions that serve both novice and experienced cryptocurrency users.

FAQ

Can I add a chain to any wallet?

Most wallets support adding chains through manual network configuration or built-in chain management features. However, compatibility varies by wallet type. Some wallets automatically detect new chains, while others require manual setup. Check your wallet's documentation for specific chain addition procedures.

What are the differences between single-chain and multi-chain wallets?

Single-chain wallets support only one cryptocurrency, while multi-chain wallets support multiple assets across different blockchains. Multi-chain wallets offer greater flexibility and accessibility, though they typically charge higher fees. Single-chain wallets are simpler and more cost-effective.

How do I switch between different chains in a multi-chain wallet?

Simply click the network selector in your wallet interface and choose your desired chain from the available options. The wallet will instantly switch to that chain, allowing you to access different blockchain networks seamlessly.