Get your environment ready to build and deploy smart contracts on Shardeum — an EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain.
Make sure you have the following installed:
Option A — Add automatically via the docs (easiest):
Go to https://docs.shardeum.org/docs/overview/endpoints and click "Add to Wallet" next to the testnet.
Option B — Add manually in MetaMask:
- Open MetaMask → click the network dropdown → "Add a custom network"
- Fill in the details below and click Save
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Network Name | Shardeum EVM Testnet |
| New RPC URL | https://api-mezame.shardeum.org |
| Chain ID | 8119 |
| Currency Symbol | SHM |
| Block Explorer URL | https://explorer-mezame.shardeum.org |
You need testnet SHM to pay for gas fees.
- Join the Shardeum Discord: https://discord.com/invite/shardeum
- Verify your account by clicking the Shardeum emoji logo in the server
- Go to the
#evm-faucetchannel: https://discord.com/channels/933959587462254612/1423751569454661632 - Type the following command (a black box with your address will appear after you type
/faucet):
/faucet [address: YOUR_METAMASK_WALLET_ADDRESS]
SHM will be sent to your wallet shortly after.
# Install dependencies
npm install
# Copy the environment file
cp .env.example .envOpen .env and add your wallet private key:
PRIVATE_KEY=your_private_key_here
How to export your private key from MetaMask: MetaMask → Account Details → "Show private key" → enter your password → copy the key
Never share your private key with anyone.
# Compile the contracts
npm run compile
# Deploy to Shardeum testnet
npm run deployIf successful, you'll see your contract addresses and links to the block explorer printed in the terminal.
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Shardeum Docs | https://docs.shardeum.org |
| Testnet Explorer | https://explorer-mezame.shardeum.org |
| Faucet (Discord) | https://discord.com/channels/933959587462254612/1423751569454661632 |
| Shardeum Discord | https://discord.com/invite/shardeum |
| Hardhat Docs | https://hardhat.org/docs |