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

Introduction to the Custom Mainnet Feature

A leading decentralized wallet has introduced an innovative feature designed to revolutionize how users add custom mainnets to their wallets. Traditionally, adding a custom mainnet has been a complex and error-prone process that requires users to manually input multiple technical parameters including RPC addresses, chain names, chain IDs, and other critical information. Even when utilizing third-party tools like ChainList, the process involves numerous steps that can be particularly cumbersome on mobile devices.

This new "Custom Mainnet" feature addresses these pain points by streamlining the entire process. Unlike similar features offered by other wallets, this implementation minimizes the steps required for mainnet addition through a built-in ChainList and native support for over 300 EVM-compatible mainnets. The timing of this launch is particularly strategic, as it coincides with major blockchain events such as network forks, where users need quick access to new chains to claim fork tokens.

What Is the "Custom Mainnet" Feature Used For?

The "Custom Mainnet" feature serves a critical function in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Generally speaking, most wallet applications support only a limited number of mainnets, primarily focusing on major networks. This limitation creates challenges when users want to interact with newer or more specialized blockchains, such as Ethereum forks, layer-2 solutions, or emerging EVM-compatible chains.

While mainstream wallets typically support 70+ well-established mainnets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and BSC, which satisfies the needs of most users, there remains a significant demand for access to additional chains. The traditional approach to adding these unsupported networks involves a multi-step manual process, whether users obtain the necessary information from official mainnet websites or through third-party aggregation tools.

This feature transforms that experience by providing an easy, user-friendly alternative. Beyond simplifying the addition process, it offers additional value through intelligent automation and seamless integration with the wallet's existing DApp ecosystem. Users can now explore emerging blockchain networks without the technical barriers that previously limited their participation in new projects and opportunities.

Highlights of the Custom Mainnet Feature

Built-in ChainList with 300+ EVM-Compatible Chains

The feature includes a comprehensive built-in ChainList containing data for over 300 EVM-compatible chains, enabling users to add any supported mainnet with a single tap. This eliminates the need for users to navigate through lengthy lists or switch between multiple applications. The implementation includes an intelligent search functionality, allowing users to quickly locate specific chains by name rather than scrolling through extensive lists.

This approach significantly reduces the time and effort required to expand wallet functionality. Users can explore new blockchain ecosystems spontaneously, without the friction of manual configuration. The extensive database ensures that even newly launched or niche networks are readily accessible, supporting the wallet's goal of providing comprehensive multi-chain coverage.

Automatic Data Retrieval Function

For chains not included in the built-in ChainList, the feature offers a powerful "Retrieve" button that automates the configuration process. Users simply need to enter the RPC address of their desired mainnet and tap "Retrieve." The system then automatically fetches and populates all other required data fields, including chain ID, currency symbol, and block explorer URLs.

This automation eliminates common errors that occur during manual data entry, such as typos in chain IDs or incorrect RPC endpoints. By reducing the potential for user error, the feature ensures more reliable connections to custom networks and prevents the frustration of failed transactions due to misconfiguration.

Seamless DApp Integration

The wallet supports over 15,000 DApps, many of which are deployed across multiple blockchain networks. The custom mainnet feature integrates seamlessly with this DApp ecosystem through an intelligent detection system. When users attempt to access a DApp that requires a mainnet not currently in their wallet, they receive an immediate prompt with an "Add" button.

This just-in-time addition capability means users don't need to proactively research and add networks before exploring DApps. The wallet handles the technical requirements automatically, allowing users to focus on discovering and using applications rather than managing blockchain configurations. This streamlined approach significantly lowers the barrier to entry for users exploring new blockchain ecosystems.

How to Add a Custom Mainnet on Mobile App

The process for adding custom mainnets on the mobile application is standardized and intuitive. Here's a detailed walkthrough using Shiden network as an example:

Step 1: Access the Mainnet Selection Interface Launch the wallet application and locate the "ALL" button in the upper right corner of the home screen. Tapping this button opens the mainnet selection interface, which displays all currently added networks. From this screen, select the "Add a Mainnet" option to begin the addition process.

Step 2: Navigate to Custom Mainnet Options In the mainnet addition menu, tap "Custom Mainnet" to access the custom network configuration area. You'll see a preview of recently added custom networks. To view the complete list of available networks, tap "View All Custom Mainnets" which displays the full ChainList database.

Step 3: Configure Network Settings Tap "Add manually" in the upper right corner to access the configuration form. Enter the RPC address of your desired network in the designated field. Once entered, tap the "Retrieve" button to automatically fetch and populate the remaining network parameters. Review the auto-populated information to ensure accuracy, then enter your wallet password to confirm the addition.

Step 4: Verify Addition Return to the wallet's landing page to confirm successful addition. The newly added mainnet should now appear in your network list, along with its native token automatically added to your asset portfolio. You can now switch to this network and begin interacting with DApps deployed on it.

How to Add a Custom Mainnet on Chrome Extension

The desktop browser extension offers a similarly streamlined process for adding custom mainnets:

Step 1: Access Network Selection Open the wallet Chrome extension and click on the current mainnet name displayed in the upper left corner. This opens a dropdown menu showing all available networks. Select "Custom Net" from this menu to access the custom network configuration area.

Step 2: Select from Available Networks Browse through the list of available custom mainnets displayed in the interface. When you locate the network you wish to add, simply check the box next to its name. The network will be immediately added to your available networks list.

Step 3: Manual Addition for Unlisted Networks If your desired network isn't present in the displayed list, click the "Add manually" button. This opens a configuration form where you can enter the network's RPC address. After entering the RPC address, click "Retrieve" to automatically populate the remaining fields with the correct network parameters.

Step 4: Confirm and Verify Click "Confirm" to finalize the addition. The extension will redirect you to the wallet home page, where the newly added mainnet will appear in the upper left corner as the active network. The mainnet's native token is also automatically added to your token list, ready for use in transactions and DApp interactions.

Practical Applications and Benefits

The Custom Mainnet feature offers significant practical advantages for cryptocurrency users. Its convenience becomes particularly evident during major blockchain events such as network forks, where users need rapid access to new chains to claim fork tokens or participate in new ecosystems.

Beyond fork events, the feature enables users to explore emerging blockchain projects without technical barriers. As new layer-2 solutions, sidechains, and alternative EVM-compatible networks continue to launch, users can immediately access these ecosystems and participate in early-stage opportunities. This accessibility supports the broader goal of blockchain adoption by removing technical friction that previously limited participation to more technically sophisticated users.

The feature also enhances security by reducing the potential for configuration errors that could lead to loss of funds or failed transactions. Automated data retrieval ensures that network parameters are accurate and up-to-date, while the built-in ChainList provides verified information for supported networks. This combination of convenience and security makes multi-chain cryptocurrency management accessible to users of all experience levels.

FAQ

What is the 'Custom Mainnet' feature and what is its purpose?

The 'Custom Mainnet' feature allows users to easily add new blockchain networks to their wallet without technical complexity. It simplifies the process of integrating custom or emerging mainnets, enabling seamless interaction with diverse blockchain ecosystems and expanding wallet compatibility.

How to use the wallet's 'Custom Mainnet' feature to add new mainnets?

Open your wallet settings, select 'Custom Mainnet', then enter the mainnet's RPC URL, chain ID, and token symbol. Click 'Add' to confirm and the new mainnet will appear in your network list for immediate use.

What types of blockchain networks does the custom mainnet feature support adding?

The custom mainnet feature supports adding EVM-compatible blockchains and other blockchain networks with standard RPC endpoints, enabling seamless integration of both mainstream and emerging mainnets into your wallet.

Is it safe to add new mainnets using the 'Custom Mainnet' feature? What risks should I be aware of?

Yes, the Custom Mainnet feature is secure when used properly. Ensure you verify mainnet addresses from official sources before adding. Double-check RPC endpoints and contract addresses to avoid phishing risks. Always use trusted, verified information.

What is the difference between the custom mainnet feature and manually adding RPC nodes?

Custom mainnet feature streamlines adding networks through a user-friendly interface with preset configurations, while manual RPC node addition requires technical knowledge to input endpoints individually. Custom mainnet saves time and reduces errors for users.

Why do you need to add a custom mainnet? What are the common use cases?

Custom mainnets enable seamless integration of emerging blockchain networks without manual configuration. Common use cases include connecting to Layer 2 solutions, testing networks, private blockchains, and newly launched mainnets. This simplifies wallet management and enhances user experience across diverse blockchain ecosystems.