Modular networks are being developed to boost Ethereum’s scalability, and Hemi is no different. Hemi is a modular Layer‑2 protocol that bridges Bitcoin and Ethereum; it unifies the security and finality of Bitcoin with the programmability and flexibility of Ethereum. The Hemi Network has been built on both the Bitcoin and Ethereum blockchains, and it functions as a single blockchain serving as both a Bitcoin and Ethereum Layer‑2.
With Bitcoin programmability on the rise thanks to new Bitcoin L2s, this article will walk you through how to add Hemi Testnet to MetaMask and discuss wallet options for accessing the Bitcoin network.
Does MetaMask Support Hemi Network?
MetaMask works with every EVM-compatible blockchain; including Hemi Network, so connecting the Hemi Testnet to your wallet is quick and simple.
How to Add Hemi Testnet to MetaMask
Hemi Network serves as a bridge between Ethereum and Bitcoin, but to access its Testnet EVM via MetaMask you’ll need the Hemi Sepolia RPC details provided in the official Hemi documentation. With the correct RPC settings, you can easily add the Hemi Testnet to MetaMask using the manual method.
For your convenience, we’ve consolidated all the necessary Hemi Testnet network details into one place to streamline the process. Simply follow the steps below to add Hemi Testnet to MetaMask.
- Network name: Hemi Sepolia
- New RPC URL: https://testnet.rpc.hemi.network/rpc
- Chain ID: 743111
- Currency symbol: ETH
- Block explorer URL (Optional): https://testnet.explorer.hemi.xyz
With the correct RPC details in hand, follow these steps to add the Hemi Sepolia Testnet to MetaMask:
Step 1: Open your MetaMask extension in your browser to access your wallet.
Step 2: Expand MetaMask to a full browser tab for easier network management. Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select “Expand View”.
Step 3: In the new tab, locate the “Network” dropdown in the top left corner of MetaMask.
Step 4: Click on “Add a custom network” to manually input the Hemi Sepolia Testnet details.
Step 5: Enter the required fields with the Hemi Sepolia Testnet RPC details. Double-check the information for accuracy, then click “Save” to finish the setup and add Hemi Testnet to MetaMask.
Step 6: Now, switch to the Hemi Sepolia Testnet by selecting it from the network dropdown menu in MetaMask.
For an even faster setup, you may use the “Add Hemi Sepolia to MetaMask” shortcut if available.
How to Set Up a Bitcoin Wallet for Hemi Testnet
Since Hemi is a Layer-2 solution for both the Ethereum and Bitcoin networks, you will need a separate Bitcoin wallet to experience its key feature; connecting Bitcoin and Ethereum into a unified supernetwork. Currently, Hemi Network is only compatible with the UniSat wallet, so make sure you have it installed and have created your UniSat Bitcoin wallet.
To complete the bridge between Ethereum and Bitcoin using Hemi Network, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open your UniSat wallet by clicking on the “UniSat icon” in your Chrome extension bar.
Step 2: Click on the “Settings” icon located at the bottom right of the extension.
Step 3: In the settings menu, select the “Address Type” option.
Step 4: Ensure that “Native SegWit (P2WPKH)” is selected, then click on the “Arrow” icon at the top left to return to your UniSat wallet.
Step 5: Now, click on the “Network” drop-down menu, as you will need to switch to Bitcoin Testnet.
Step 6: From the list of network options, click on “Bitcoin Testnet” to expand it, then select “Bitcoin Testnet” again to finalize the switch.
Your UniSat wallet is now set up for the Hemi Testnet, allowing you to explore the network’s Bitcoin-Ethereum interoperability.
About Hemi Network
The Hemi Network represents a new approach to Layer‑2 scaling by uniting Bitcoin and Ethereum into a single modular supernetwork. Leveraging innovative technology—such as the Hemi Virtual Machine (hVM), which integrates a full Bitcoin node within an Ethereum Virtual Machine, and the Hemi Bitcoin Kit (hBK) for enhanced Bitcoin programmability—Hemi equips developers with robust tools for building next-generation dApps. Notably, Ethereum’s native token, ETH, is used to pay for gas on the Hemi Network, ensuring smooth transaction execution.
With its Proof-of-Proof (PoP) consensus achieving Bitcoin-level security in just a few hours and unique “Tunnels” enabling trustless cross-chain portability, Hemi’s modular, neutral design not only simplifies development but also enhances asset management, making it a pivotal infrastructure for a more connected, scalable, and efficient blockchain ecosystem.
Bottom Line
Adding Hemi Testnet to MetaMask is a straightforward process that allows users to explore its features without complexity. Since Hemi connects Bitcoin and Ethereum as a modular Layer-2, having both MetaMask and a Bitcoin wallet ensures full access to its ecosystem. Once you have completed the steps to add Hemi testnet to MetaMask and the UniSat wallet set up, you can then interact with its tools, test transactions, and understand how it integrates both networks.
FAQs
1. Can I use MetaMask for Bitcoin transactions on Hemi Network?
No, MetaMask only supports Ethereum-based assets. Since Hemi operates as both an Ethereum and Bitcoin Layer-2, you’ll need a separate Bitcoin wallet, like UniSat, to interact with the Bitcoin side of the network.
2. Do I need testnet ETH or BTC to interact with Hemi Testnet?
Yes, you’ll need testnet ETH for gas fees when interacting with the Hemi Sepolia Testnet on MetaMask. If you’re testing Bitcoin transactions, you’ll also need testnet BTC in your UniSat wallet.
3. How does Hemi achieve cross-chain interoperability between Ethereum and Bitcoin?
Hemi uses its Hemi Virtual Machine (hVM) to integrate a full Bitcoin node within the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). This allows developers to build cross-chain dApps that can seamlessly interact with both networks.
4. When is the Hemi mainnet launching?
The Hemi mainnet is scheduled to launch on March 12, 2025, uniting Bitcoin and Ethereum into a single supernetwork.
5. What is the purpose of Hemi Tunnels?
Hemi Tunnels provide a secure, trust-minimized method for transferring assets between Bitcoin and Ethereum, enhancing cross-chain interoperability.
