As we previously noted, the Ethereum (ETH) blockchain can sometimes get quite congested. If you are doing a large order of +$1000 USD you may want to use the high gas setting, or even a higher custom gas setting to avoid getting “front run” by bots.
On Uniswap there are “front run” bots that are pre programmed to prey on users and that use low gas settings with a large order size, so that they may place their order before yours. This will increase the price of the asset before your order is confirmed, and then the bot will immediately sell the same asset for a small profit after your order is confirmed. When this happens, you will start off in an underwater position immediately.
Until “layer 2” solutions are released, we are stuck dealing with this issue. Luckily you came to the right place. We’re going to show you just how to avoid this situation.
How to use custom gas settings
- Select your desired trade in Uniswap. In this example we are going to be trading ETH for FUD.
- Select the “Swap” button.
- Press “Confirm Swap.”
- Select the small blue “Edit” text next to “Network fee.”
- Press the “Fast” option or select the “Advanced” tab just above it.
- If you selected the “Advanced” network fee you need to visit Eth Gas Station and choose a number at least 10 to 25 points above the “trader” setting and enter it into the “Gas Price: (GWEI)” field and then press “Save.”
- Press “Confirm” to complete your swap.
Congratulations, you just learned how to use higher gas settings so you can avoid getting front run on Uniswap. Keep in mind that if you’re sending assets to a different wallet that you can save money on fees by using a lower gas setting if you don’t mind waiting a while longer!