When depositing or withdrawing cryptocurrencies, you may encounter multiple network options for a single asset. Selecting the correct blockchain network is crucial—sending funds via the wrong network can result in irreversible loss. The simplest and most effective rule is to always use the native network of the cryptocurrency.
For example:
- Always send ETH or ERC-20 tokens through the Ethereum network to your Ethereum address.
- Always send OKT or KIP-20 tokens via the OKC network to your OKC-compatible wallet.
- Always transfer BNB or BEP-20 tokens using the BSC (Binance Smart Chain) network.
Following this principle minimizes risks and ensures fast, successful transactions.
👉 Discover how to securely manage multi-chain crypto transfers with confidence.
Why Network Selection Matters in Crypto Transactions
Every blockchain operates as an independent system. Tokens like USDT or USDC exist across multiple networks—Ethereum, BSC, Solana, Polygon, etc.—but each version is only valid on its respective chain. If you send USDT on the Ethereum network to a wallet expecting it on BSC, the transaction will not be recognized. Even though it may appear as "completed" on-chain, your funds won't show up in the destination wallet—and recovery is often impossible.
This is why understanding network compatibility between sender and receiver is essential. It’s not enough to have the right wallet address; you must also ensure that both parties are using the same underlying blockchain.
Common native pairings include:
- Ethereum (ETH) – For ETH and ERC-20 tokens
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC) – For BNB and BEP-20 tokens
- OKC (OKX Chain) – For OKT and KIP-20 tokens
- Tron (TRON) – For TRX and TRC-20 tokens
- Solana (SOL) – For SOL-based SPL tokens
- Polygon (MATIC) – For MATIC and ERC-20 compatible tokens on Polygon
- Optimism & Arbitrum – Layer 2 Ethereum networks using ETH for gas fees
- Fantom (FTM) – For FTM and FRC-20 tokens
Always verify which network your receiving platform supports before initiating any transfer.
Two Reliable Methods to Select the Correct Blockchain Network
Method 1: Search by Coin Name to Identify Supported Networks
Most major exchanges and Web3 wallets allow you to receive assets by searching for the coin name. Here's how it works:
- Open your wallet or exchange account.
- Click on Receive.
- Search for the cryptocurrency you want to deposit (e.g., USDT).
- If the token exists on multiple chains, you'll be prompted to select a network.
At this point, choose the appropriate blockchain—such as Ethereum, BSC, or OKC—based on where the funds are coming from or where you plan to use them. Only after selecting the correct network will you see the deposit address.
This method reduces human error by guiding users through network selection directly within the interface.
Method 2: Add Custom Tokens by Manually Specifying Network and Contract Address
Sometimes, a token may not appear in your wallet’s default list—especially if it’s newly launched or less popular. In such cases, you can manually add it:
- Go to your wallet settings and select Token Management > Add Custom Token.
- Visit a trusted data source like CoinGecko or CoinMarketCap.
Search for the token and locate its:
- Contract address
- Deployed blockchain network (e.g., Ethereum, BSC, OKC)
If the token is available on multiple chains, copy the contract address corresponding to your desired network.
- Return to your Web3 wallet (like OKX Wallet), choose the correct network, paste the contract address, and confirm.
Once added, the token will display in your wallet balance when there are funds.
👉 Learn how to safely add and manage custom tokens across multiple blockchains.
Critical Tips for Safe Crypto Transfers
To avoid losing funds during transfers, keep these best practices in mind:
- ✅ Always double-check the network before confirming a transaction.
- ✅ Ensure your wallet supports the token standard (ERC-20, BEP-20, TRC-20, etc.).
✅ Keep a small balance of the native gas token in your wallet:
- ETH for Ethereum, Optimism, Arbitrum
- BNB for BSC
- OKT for OKC
- MATIC for Polygon
- SOL for Solana
- FTM for Fantom
Without sufficient gas fees, transactions will fail.
- ❌ Never assume all addresses work across chains—even if they look similar.
- ❌ Avoid copying addresses from untrusted sources; always verify through official channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What happens if I send crypto using the wrong network?
A: Funds sent via an incorrect network may not arrive at the destination wallet. Recovery depends on whether the receiving platform supports cross-chain reconciliation. In many cases, especially with decentralized wallets, recovery is not possible.
Q: Can I receive ETH on a BSC address?
A: No. While both networks use similar address formats, they are incompatible. Sending ETH to a BSC-only address without Ethereum network support will result in permanent loss.
Q: How do I know which network a token uses?
A: Check reputable sites like CoinGecko or CoinMarketCap. Look under “Contracts” to find supported blockchains and their respective contract addresses.
Q: Is it safe to use custom token imports?
A: Yes—if done correctly. Only import tokens using verified contract addresses from official sources. Fake contracts can mimic real tokens but lead to fund theft.
Q: Why do some tokens have lower fees on certain networks?
A: Each blockchain has different congestion levels and fee structures. For example, BSC typically has lower fees than Ethereum, making it more cost-effective for small transfers.
Q: Do I need OKT to send tokens on OKC?
A: Yes. Just like ETH powers transactions on Ethereum, OKT is required as gas for sending tokens or interacting with dApps on the OKX Chain.
Choosing the correct network when depositing or withdrawing crypto isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your assets. By following native chain rules and verifying details carefully, you can prevent costly mistakes.
Whether you're managing stablecoins, utility tokens, or participating in DeFi protocols, accurate network selection ensures smooth, secure transactions across ecosystems.
👉 Start managing your multi-chain portfolio with precision and peace of mind today.