Linea is a L2 Ethereum blockchain, based on the zero-knowledge (ZK) technologies, developed by Consensys. To test their applications, its Linea Goerli testnet was developed, where tokens have no value and, thus, can be used for testing purposes without expenses. Now, it’s depreciated and the new version, Sepolia, is used, similar to many other L2 blockchains.
So, let’s explore how to add a testnet Linea network to the MetaMask wallet and where to get test ETH in the network.
What is Linea Sepolia?
Linea attracts attention due to its scalability and safety, so its testnet can be very beneficial for developers who want to ensure everything works as intended without losing real assets. Its test ETH has no value, while it can be used to interact with dApps without gaining or losing anything. Therefore, it’s perfect for testing purposes. In order to start using the testnet, Web3 developers should first add Linea to MetaMask, a mainstream Ethereum’s wallet.
Here, let's see how you can add Linea testnet Sepolia and obtain Linea faucet ETH for free.
Adding Linea Testnet to MetaMask: The Prerequisites
Two things should be adjusted before moving forward. First, ensure you have a MetaMask account and its browser extension is installed. Second, create a Linea testnet endpoint, which is your connection point to the blockchain, and add it to the wallet. Then, you’ll need a Linea faucet to obtain test ETH, but first, we’ll focus on two prerequisites.
So, let’s start.
- Register at GetBlock, using your MetaMask address.
- In the dashboard, choose Linea protocol in the My endpoints menu.
- Choose Sepolia network and JSON-RPC API/add-on.
- Click Get and have your personal free Linea endpoint.
With the endpoint, you can make 40,000 blockchain requests per day at a speed of 60 requests per second (RPS) which are used when you use Linea testnet faucet or conduct other operations.
How to Add Linea Sepolia to MetaMask: The Process
This endpoint link is what enables you to operate within the Sepolia network, and as you have 40,000 free blockchain requests daily, it’ll be more than enough for personal usage.
Step 1: Set Up the Wallet
Go to the MetaMask extension, open and unlock it, and start setting up the network. That’s where you’ll get test ETH from the Linea faucet in testnet.
- Open the three-dots icon on the top right, and click Settings;
- Scroll down and select the Network item;
- On the next tab below, click on the blue button labeled Add network.
- Proceed to the new browser tab, scroll down, and click Add a network manually.
To add the network, you need to specify its parameters. Let’s see them.
Step 2: Add Linea Testnet Parameters
The unique chain ID is what tells the wallet which blockchain will be used. Along with that, the RPC URL is necessary to establish a connection with it and send requests. See the Linea Sepolia parameters below, which are necessary before connecting to the faucet of Linea.
| Network | Linea Sepolia |
|---|---|
| RPC URL | https://go.getblock.io/<Your_Access_Token> |
| Chain ID | 59141 |
| Currency | ETH |
| Block Explorer | https://sepolia.lineascan.build/ |
While some people still use Linea Goerli faucets for their test purposes, we suggest you to use the newer version, Sepolia.
Don’t forget to add the unique RPC URL obtained from GetBlock. After filling the form, click Save, and you’ll see the new Linea network in MetaMask.
Step 3: Change Active Network
Now, the network can be selected in the upper left list for network choosing. You’ll see the testnet address will appear in the upper center. Also, notice that you cannot swap or buy tokens in this network, as testnets don’t allow it.
So, where do you get them? That’s why we need the Linea ETH faucet.
Getting Linea Test ETH on MetaMask: The Result
That’s where you can obtain test ETH for free, despite in limited amounts. Additionally, most faucets, including ours, require you to have a very small amount of real ETH on the corresponding mainnet to prevent spam.
While it has no real-world value, limitations are imposed to prevent network overload and quick faucet depletion.
So, let’s see how to use the GetBlock faucets for ETH gathering.
- In the GetBlock faucet list, select the Linea Sepolia and click Try Now.
- As you’re authorized, enter your testnet address and click Claim Token.
- You’ll see the captcha you need to complete and obtain test ETH after that.
Remember, these tokens have no monetary value, and no Linea testnet bridge to mainnet can be possible. As test funds arrive, try to swap them between testnet accounts, use them for your own dApps, or communicate with other developers about testing.
Note that the Linea Goerli faucet can also be found, but the network was depreciated in May 2024, so it’s better to focus on Sepolia now.
Conclusion
The free-to-use and secure testing environment is a robust place for Linea developers to try their apps in action. It requires no cost, while all app functionalities can be carefully explored before launching it on a mainnet network, avoiding losses and failures.
While Linea Goerli testnet faucets are still available, it’s better to use Sepolia, as it’s more secure and provides more opportunities for exploring the network.
