Arbitrum, one of Ethereum's leading Layer 2 scaling solutions, enables faster and cheaper transactions. This guide walks you through bridging assets between Ethereum Mainnet (L1) and Arbitrum One (L2) using the official Arbitrum Bridge.
Prerequisites
- A Web3 wallet (e.g., MetaMask) with ETH or tokens on Ethereum Mainnet
- Basic understanding of blockchain transactions
👉 Ready to explore Arbitrum? Start bridging assets now
Step 1: Connect to Arbitrum One Network
Network Configuration
- Network Name: Arbitrum One
- RPC URL:
https://arb1.arbitrum.io/rpc - Chain ID: 42161
- Currency Symbol: ETH
- Block Explorer: Arbiscan
Quick Connection Method
- Visit the Arbitrum Bridge
- Click "Add/Switch to Arbitrum Network" to auto-configure your wallet
Manual Setup (MetaMask)
- Open MetaMask → Select "Ethereum Mainnet"
- Click "Add Network" → Enter the above configuration
- Save and switch networks
Step 2: Bridge Assets from L1 to L2
Transfer Process
- Verify Connection: Ensure your wallet is on Ethereum Mainnet
- Select Token: Choose the token to bridge from the dropdown
- Enter Amount: Input the desired transfer amount under "L1"
- Confirm Deposit: Approve the transaction via MetaMask (gas fees apply)
Processing Time: 10 minutes to 1 hour (varies by network congestion)
👉 Need ETH for gas? Get started here
Step 3: Explore Arbitrum Ecosystem
Discover decentralized applications on Arbitrum One:
- DeFi platforms
- NFT marketplaces
- Gaming protocols
Visit the Arbitrum Portal for curated projects.
Step 4: Withdraw Assets from L2 to L1
Important Notes
- 7-Day Challenge Period: Mandatory waiting time for withdrawals
- No Instant Withdrawals: Plan transactions accordingly
Withdrawal Steps
- Switch Network: Ensure MetaMask is on Arbitrum One
- Select Token: Choose the token to withdraw
- Initiate Transfer: Enter amount under "L2" → Click "Withdraw"
- Complete After 7 Days: Click "Claim" post-challenge period
Risk Considerations
| Risk Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Smart Contract | Potential vulnerabilities in bridge contracts |
| Price Volatility | Asset value may fluctuate during transfer |
| Network Delays | Congestion may affect processing times |
FAQs
Q: Is Arbitrum Bridge safe?
A: While audited, all smart contracts carry inherent risks. Only transfer what you can afford to lose.
Q: Why the 7-day withdrawal period?
A: This security feature allows for fraud proofs in Optimistic Rollups.
Q: Can I cancel a bridge transaction?
A: No, once confirmed on-chain, transactions are irreversible.
Q: What tokens are supported?
A: ETH and major ERC-20 tokens. Check the bridge interface for updates.
Q: How much does bridging cost?
A: Fees vary based on:
- Ethereum gas prices
- Token type
- Network demand
Key Takeaways
- Arbitrum significantly reduces Ethereum transaction costs
- Bridge operations require careful network switching
- Withdrawals involve a mandatory 7-day wait
- Always verify contract addresses before interacting
For the latest updates, monitor Arbitrum's official channels.