Coinbase Extension® — Getting Started

Coinbase Wallet® Browser Extension Guide

Overview

The Coinbase Wallet browser extension allows you to securely access Web3 directly from your desktop browser. It is a self-custody wallet, meaning you control your private keys, crypto assets, and NFTs without relying on a centralized service.

The extension enables seamless interaction with decentralized applications (dApps), including DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, and blockchain games.

Key Features at a Glance

  • 🔐 Self-custody crypto and NFT storage
  • 🌐 Direct connection to Web3 applications
  • 🖥️ Desktop browser integration
  • 🔄 Support for Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks
  • 🛡️ Secure transaction approval and signing

Before You Begin

Make sure you have:

  • A desktop or laptop computer
  • A supported Chromium-based browser (Chrome, Brave, Edge)
  • A stable internet connection

Note: Mobile users should use the Coinbase Wallet mobile app instead of the browser extension.

Installing the Coinbase Wallet Extension

Step 1: Access the Official Extension

Open your browser’s extension marketplace and search for Coinbase Wallet. Always confirm the publisher is Coinbase to avoid counterfeit extensions.

Step 2: Install the Extension

Select Add to Browser and approve the installation request.

Step 3: Pin for Quick Access

Pin the extension to your browser toolbar for easy access.

Wallet Setup Options

When launching the extension for the first time, choose one of the following:

Create a New Wallet

Recommended for new users.

  1. Select Create New Wallet
  2. Create a strong local password
  3. Save your recovery phrase securely

Important: Your recovery phrase is the only way to restore your wallet. Coinbase cannot recover it for you.

Import an Existing Wallet

Use this option if you already have a wallet.

  • Enter your existing recovery phrase
  • Set a new local password

Your assets will appear once the wallet syncs with the blockchain.

Navigating the Wallet Interface

The extension dashboard is divided into key sections:

SectionPurpose
PortfolioView crypto and NFT balances
Send / ReceiveTransfer assets
ActivityTrack recent transactions
NetworksSwitch blockchain networks
SettingsSecurity and app permissions

Connecting to Web3 Applications (dApps)

How Connections Work

When visiting a Web3-enabled site, click Connect Wallet and select Coinbase Wallet.

You will be asked to:

  • Approve or reject the connection
  • Confirm which wallet address is shared

dApps can request transaction approvals, but cannot move funds without your consent.

Sending and Receiving Crypto

Receive Crypto

  1. Open the extension
  2. Copy your wallet address
  3. Share the address with the sender

Ensure the sender uses the correct network.

Send Crypto

  1. Select Send
  2. Enter the recipient’s address
  3. Choose the asset and amount
  4. Review fees
  5. Confirm the transaction

Transaction speed depends on network conditions.

NFT Management

The Coinbase Wallet extension supports NFT storage and interaction.

You can:

  • View NFTs in your portfolio
  • Connect to NFT marketplaces
  • Approve NFT transfers

NFTs are displayed visually for easy management.

Security & Safety Tips

To protect your wallet:

  • Never share your recovery phrase
  • Verify website URLs before connecting
  • Avoid suspicious pop-ups or messages
  • Lock your wallet when not in use
  • Consider a hardware wallet for large balances

Common Use Cases

  • Decentralized finance (DeFi) participation
  • NFT trading and collecting
  • Blockchain gaming
  • Web3 social platforms
  • Managing multiple wallet addresses

Troubleshooting Basics

Wallet not connecting to a dApp?

  • Refresh the page
  • Ensure the correct network is selected
  • Check site permissions in Settings

Transaction stuck?

  • Network congestion may delay confirmations
  • Fees may need adjustment

Summary

The Coinbase Extension® (Coinbase Wallet® browser extension) provides a secure and user-friendly gateway to Web3. By combining self-custody control with seamless browser integration, it enables users to explore decentralized applications with confidence.

Proper setup, safe recovery phrase storage, and cautious dApp connections are essential to a secure experience.