Navigating the vast ecosystem of blockchain networks requires a clear understanding of their unique identifiers, known as ChainIDs. These numerical values are crucial for developers, users, and services to interact accurately with different blockchains, ensuring transactions are broadcast to the intended network. This guide provides a detailed overview of various blockchain networks and their corresponding ChainIDs and native currencies.
Understanding ChainIDs and Their Importance
A ChainID is a unique identifier assigned to a specific blockchain network. It plays a vital role in preventing transaction replay attacks, where a transaction valid on one network might be maliciously rebroadcast on another. By specifying a ChainID, users and applications can unequivocally determine the destination network for their operations.
For developers building decentralized applications (dApps) or users configuring wallets like MetaMask, knowing the correct ChainID is essential for seamless interaction with various blockchains. Incorrect ChainID settings can lead to failed transactions or, worse, loss of funds.
Major Blockchain Networks and Their ChainIDs
Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) Compatible Networks
Many modern blockchains are EVM-compatible, meaning they can run applications built for Ethereum. This compatibility has led to a proliferation of networks, each with its own ChainID.
- Base: ChainID 8453, Native Currency: ETH
- Linea: ChainID 59144, Native Currency: ETH
- Scroll: ChainID 534352, Native Currency: ETH
- Blast: ChainID 81457, Native Currency: ETH
- Morph: ChainID 2818, Native Currency: ETH
- Zora: ChainID 7777777, Native Currency: ETH
- Mode: ChainID 34443, Native Currency: ETH
Specialized and Application-Specific Chains
Some networks are designed with a specific focus, such as gaming, social media, or decentralized finance (DeFi).
- Astar: ChainID 592, Native Currency: ASTR
- Canto: ChainID 7700, Native Currency: CANTO
- Evmos: ChainID 9001, Native Currency: EVMOS
- Lens Protocol: ChainID 232, Native Currency: GHO
- Saga: ChainID 5464, Native Currency: GAS
Emerging and Test Networks
The blockchain space is continuously evolving, with new networks launching frequently. These often serve as testbeds for innovation before mainnet releases.
- BOB: ChainID 60808, Native Currency: ETH
- Kroma: ChainID 255, Native Currency: ETH
- Funki: ChainID 33979, Native Currency: ETH
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How to Use ChainIDs
When adding a new network to your Web3 wallet, you will typically need the following information:
- Network Name
- RPC URL (Remote Procedure Call)
- ChainID
- Currency Symbol
- Block Explorer URL
The ChainID is a critical part of this process. Always double-check the ChainID from an official source before adding a new network to avoid connecting to a malicious chain.
The Role of Native Currencies
Each blockchain has a native currency used to pay for transaction fees (gas). For example:
- Networks like Base and Linea use ETH.
- The Kava network uses KAVA.
- The Astar network uses ASTR.
Understanding the native currency is essential for budgeting transaction costs when interacting with a dApp on a specific chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a ChainID?
A ChainID is a unique number that identifies a specific blockchain network. It is fundamental for network operations, ensuring transactions are processed on the correct chain and preventing replay attacks across different networks.
Why do I need to know a network's ChainID?
You need the correct ChainID to configure wallets, interact with smart contracts, and ensure your transactions are sent to the right blockchain. Using the wrong ID can result in lost funds or failed transactions.
Are ChainID and Network ID the same thing?
In most modern EVM contexts, they refer to the same value. However, technically, the ChainID was introduced later via EIP-155 to improve security and prevent replay attacks, superseding the original Network ID in importance.
What is the ChainID for the Ethereum Mainnet?
The Ethereum Mainnet has a ChainID of 1. This is the most well-known and widely used network for ETH transactions and smart contracts.
How can I find the ChainID for an unknown network?
The most reliable method is to consult the official documentation or website of the blockchain project. Community-run resources like chainlist.org also aggregate verified network information, but always verify with a primary source.
What happens if I use the wrong ChainID?
A transaction signed with an incorrect ChainID will be invalid on the intended network and will likely fail. In some cases, if the ChainID corresponds to a different, existing network, the transaction could be executed on that unintended chain, potentially resulting in a loss of funds.
Conclusion
The landscape of blockchain networks is expansive and growing. A solid grasp of ChainIDs is not just for developers but for any user participating in the Web3 ecosystem. This guide serves as a reference for some of the many networks available. Always remember to conduct your own research and verify network details from official sources before engaging in any transactions. 👉 Get advanced blockchain tools to enhance your navigation and interaction with these diverse networks safely and efficiently.