Coinbase Wallet Extension® — Getting Started | Coinbase®

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— 2 min read

The Coinbase Extension is your ultimate bridge to the decentralized web. By bringing the power of self-custody directly to your Chrome or Brave browser, it removes the friction of managing digital assets on a desktop.

Just a few easy clicks and you'll be signed up in minutes! No more scanning QR codes every time you want to connect to a new application. The Coinbase Extension offers a seamless, high-performance interface that syncs effortlessly with your mobile wallet, ensuring your portfolio is always at your fingertips.

Why Choose the Coinbase Extension?

While many wallets exist, the Coinbase Extension stands out by balancing professional-grade security with an intuitive user experience. Here is why thousands of traders are making the switch:

  • Universal Compatibility: Access thousands of tokens across Ethereum, Solana, and all EVM-compatible networks like Polygon, Avalanche, and Base.
  • Self-Custody Control: You own your private keys. Your assets are stored locally on your device, not on a centralized server, giving you 100% control over your funds.
  • Ledger Support: For those seeking maximum security, the extension pairs seamlessly with Ledger hardware wallets, allowing you to sign transactions with "cold" storage.
  • dApp Safety Features: Benefit from built-in security alerts that warn you about malicious websites and "spam" tokens before you interact with them.

How to Set Up Your Wallet in Minutes

Setting up your Coinbase Extension is designed to be a "plug-and-play" experience. Follow these simple steps to get started:

  1. Download & Install: Visit the Chrome Web Store and search for "Coinbase Wallet." Click Add to Chrome to install the extension.
  2. Create or Import: Open the extension from your browser’s toolbar. You can either select Create New Wallet or choose I already have a wallet to import an existing 12-word recovery phrase.
  3. Secure Your Account: Choose a strong password to lock your extension locally. If you are creating a new wallet, write down your 12-word Recovery Phrase and store it in a safe, offline location.
  4. Connect and Trade: You’re ready! You can now link your main Coinbase exchange account to fund your wallet or start interacting with dApps like Uniswap and OpenSea immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Coinbase Extension the same as my Coinbase account? No. Your Coinbase exchange account is custodial (Coinbase manages the keys). The Coinbase Extension is a self-custody wallet, meaning you are the only one with access to your private keys and recovery phrase.

Which browsers support the extension? Currently, the extension is fully optimized for Google Chrome and Brave. It can also work on other Chromium-based browsers like Microsoft Edge.

What happens if I lose my recovery phrase? Because this is a self-custody wallet, Coinbase cannot reset your recovery phrase or access your funds. It is vital to keep your 12-word phrase backed up in a secure place.

Are there any fees for using the extension? Downloading and using the extension is free. However, you will still pay standard network "gas" fees (paid to the blockchain) for transactions like sending crypto or swapping tokens.

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