MetaMask is the most popular browser wallet for interacting with Ethereum-compatible blockchains. This guide walks you through setting it up for Ethereum Classic.
Installing MetaMask
MetaMask is available as a browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge.
- Visit the official MetaMask website at metamask.io
- Click “Download” and select your browser
- Install the extension from your browser's official extension store
- Click the MetaMask icon to begin setup
Important: Only download MetaMask from the official website or your browser's official extension store. Never install from third-party sources.
Creating a New Wallet
- Click “Create a new wallet”
- Accept the terms and create a strong password
- MetaMask will show your 12-word seed phrase
- Write down your seed phrase on paper (never digitally)
- Verify your seed phrase by selecting words in order
Seed Phrase Warning
Your seed phrase is the master key to your wallet. Anyone with these words can access your funds. Keep it safe:
- Write it on paper, not digitally
- Store in a secure location
- Never share with anyone
- MetaMask will never ask for it
Adding Ethereum Classic Network
MetaMask connects to Ethereum by default. To use ETC, you need to add the network manually.
Method 1: Chainlist (Easiest)
- Visit chainlist.org
- Search for “Ethereum Classic”
- Connect your MetaMask wallet
- Click “Add to MetaMask” for Ethereum Classic (Chain ID 61)
- Approve the network addition in MetaMask
Method 2: Manual Configuration
You can also add the network manually:
- Open MetaMask and click the network dropdown (top of window)
- Click “Add network”
- Click “Add a network manually”
- Enter the following details:
| Network Name | Ethereum Classic |
| New RPC URL | https://etc.rivet.link |
| Chain ID | 61 |
| Currency Symbol | ETC |
| Block Explorer URL | https://etc.blockscout.com |
- Click “Save”
Switching Networks
To switch between Ethereum and Ethereum Classic:
- Click the network dropdown at the top of MetaMask
- Select “Ethereum Classic” from your networks list
- Your ETC balance will appear
Note: Make sure you're on the correct network before sending transactions. ETC and ETH use the same address format but are separate networks.
Receiving ETC
- Ensure MetaMask is set to Ethereum Classic network
- Click your account name to copy your address
- Share this address with the sender
- Your balance will update once the transaction confirms
Your address is the same on both ETC and ETH networks, but the balances are network-specific.
Sending ETC
- Ensure you're on the Ethereum Classic network
- Click “Send”
- Enter the recipient's address
- Enter the amount to send
- Review the transaction and gas fee
- Click “Confirm”
Before Confirming
- Double-check the recipient address
- Verify you're on the ETC network (Chain ID 61)
- Review the gas fee
- For large amounts, send a small test transaction first
Connecting to dApps
MetaMask allows you to connect to decentralized applications on ETC:
- Visit an ETC dApp (like ETCswap)
- Click “Connect Wallet” on the dApp
- Select MetaMask
- Approve the connection in MetaMask
- Make sure you're on the ETC network
The dApp may prompt you to switch networks if you're connected to the wrong one.
Adding ETC Tokens
To see ERC-20 tokens in your wallet:
- Click “Import tokens” at the bottom of your assets
- Enter the token contract address
- MetaMask will auto-fill the symbol and decimals
- Click “Add custom token”
Common ETC Tokens
- WETC: Wrapped ETC for DeFi
- USC: Classic USD stablecoin
Security Tips
- Lock your wallet when not in use
- Set a auto-lock timer in settings
- Only connect to trusted dApps
- Review all transaction requests before signing
- Revoke unused dApp connections periodically
Troubleshooting
Transactions Stuck
If a transaction is pending for too long, you may need to speed it up or cancel it by sending a transaction with the same nonce and higher gas.
Wrong Network
If you sent ETC to your address but don't see it, check that MetaMask is connected to the Ethereum Classic network (Chain ID 61).
Balance Not Updating
Try refreshing or switching networks and switching back. Check the transaction on etc.blockscout.com to verify it confirmed.
Next Steps
With MetaMask configured for ETC, you can:
- Swap tokens on ETCswap
- Explore ETC dApps
- Connect to Classic OS
- Manage your DeFi positions