MetaMask is a universal wallet that works with several blockchains and protocols. It was designed to favor Ethereum and support every project affiliated with the network. Optimism is an Ethereum-affiliated blockchain and functions flawlessly with MetaMask. By the end of this article, you will know how to connect Optimism with MetaMask.

What Is Optimism?

Optimism is an Ethereum-based off-chain program developed as a second-layer solution in the Ethereum network. It is built on a series of codes known as Optimistic rollups, and these rollups simplify complex data into bits. Optimism is increasingly convenient and more popular because of its numerous utilities.

About Optimism

Optimism is primarily designed to work with and for Ethereum in handling transactions and blockchain-related activities. It is driven by the OP coin and sends every transaction record to Ethereum’s blockchain. It works like a vehicle moving through a less-crowded road and enjoying the security features of an expressway.

Optimism ranks next to Polygon as the most extensive Ethereum layer two software. It has over $312 million worth of crypto contracts.

As earlier stated, the base codes for Optimism are Optimistic rollups. They are regarded as Optimistic rollups because every activity on the blockchain is regarded as true until proven wrong. The validation process takes a while to complete because the system challenges all transactions by checking for proofs of fraud and running other processes concerning the available data.

How Optimism Works

As stated earlier, Optimism is designed to offer second-layer solutions to Ethereum. In previous times, layer 1 scaling programs on Ethereum directly influenced the network. However, compared to layer one solutions, it upscales the Ethereum ecosystem by handling some transactions off Ethereum’s chain and returns the results after work. This solution operates similarly to other side chains, such that it functions with an Ethereum Virtual Machine and aids blockchain programmers in setting up projects on Ethereum. These projects can be decentralized applications and crypto contracts.

Hence, this project adaptation feature allows high-traffic DApps to upscale to any level. End-users can also benefit from Optimism’s features because it supports low gas prices and maximizes security.

Optimism can achieve low blockchain tariffs because it combines several transactions into one and charges all of them as one body. Hence, this decentralized network software aids software engineers in repeatedly using every Ethereum tool without altering its codes.

How To Bridge To Optimism

It is important to note that you are likely to lose your funds if you are to send Ethereum or EVM-based tokens directly to Optimism. While it may not be a 2-second process, it is not complex either. It is why you need a bridge. A bridge can be considered a crypto contract– it works like a two-way system, funneling funds from one end to the other.

What you should do is add Optimism to a compatible wallet (e.g. MetaMask) and connect the wallet to the Optimism bridge. Once done, you can comfortably and safely transfer your tokens to and from EVM chains. You should be aware that some transactions may take as long to complete (as many as six days). The essence is for transaction validators to confirm their validity before adding them to the mainnet.

How To Add Optimism To MetaMask Network

For you to perform this operation, you must own a MetaMask wallet. Once owned, click it open and go to the arrow pointing towards the “Ethereum Mainnet” icon. Once clicked, you will see a list of several EVM networks for you to choose from. The next step is to select the Custom RPC option so you can add a different network (in our case, Optimism).

For you to add the Optimism network, you must input the following data:

• Network Name: Optimism
• New RPC URL: http://mainnet.optimism.io/
• Chain ID: 10
• Symbol: ETH
• Block Explorer URL: https://optimistic.ethereum.io/

Once done, ensure to save it. You can easily alternate between different EVM networks by clicking the “Network” icon. Note that the adding process for other Ethereum-compatible networks is the same. The only difference is their network data.

Wallets that Promote Optimism

Optimism is been promoted by wallets like Trust wallet, Coinbase wallet, TokenPockets, etc because it comes with an EVM.

Crypto Contracts That Work On Optimism

Understanding that Optimism functions similarly to other EVM chains, all ETH-compatible crypto contracts work on Optimism. So, blockchain developers can quickly launch programs on the platform without writing new codes. Even more, they can easily overcome the hurdle of high gas charges by moving to a sidechain or operating on the mainchain and sidechain at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Optimism Network?

The Optimism network is a second-layer decentralized network built to upscale Ethereum’s blockchain. The Optimism Network performs its functions by performing Ethereum-owned activities on its network and recording the results on Ethereum’s chain. It works with every Ethereum-compatible decentralized application and supports its scalability.

Is Optimism part of Ethereum?

While the Optimism network can be called a part of Ethereum, it is an affiliated blockchain to Ethereum. It has over $312 million worth of Smart contracts residing on it.

How To Get ETH On Optimism

You can get Ethereum on Optimism just like other ETH-compatible tokens. By following these steps:

• Launch Optimism.
• Select the “Connect” icon and choose your wallet.
• Choose the token you want to transact with (in this case, Ether).
• Input how much ETH you are withdrawing and click “Deposit.”
• Go through the disclaimer and proceed.

Is Optimism EVM Compatible?

Yes, Optimism works perfectly with the EVM. It does this through its machine called the Optimistic Virtual Machine, also known as the OVM. Hence, it can function with all Ethereum-affiliated apps.

Does Optimism Have A Coin?

Optimism has a native token called OP. At the time of writing, OP has a market price of about $0.6 with a trading volume of nearly $23.6 billion daily. You can receive OP airdrop by going to the airdrop website and submitting your wallet address.

Does MetaMask Support Optimism?

MetaMask supports Optimism because it is built and connected with Ethereum’s mainnet.

How To Add Optimism To MetaMask Mobile Wallet

You can add Optimism to MetaMask mobile in three simple steps:

• Download the application on your handheld device.
• Go to the “Settings” section and add a network.
• Input the Optimism network data and save.

How Long Does Optimism Bridge Take?

Optimism bridge can take about 9 minutes to process a transaction. You only have to be patient for the token-bridging process to be over.

Conclusion

The Optimism network is a time-saving and cost-effective layer-2 network for Ethereum. It reduces the limitations attached to Ethereum and makes it more beneficial to the entire crypto ecosystem. It is compatible with MetaMask because the wallet is designed to support Ethereum. However, cross-chain transactions with Optimism require bridging.