Coinbase Extension — Getting Started | Coinbase Wallet®

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— 2 min read

The Coinbase Wallet extension is a browser extension (primarily for Chrome, with compatibility for browsers like Brave) that provides secure, self-custody access to your cryptocurrency. It allows users to manage digital assets, interact with decentralized applications (dApps), trade on decentralized exchanges (DEXes), collect and manage NFTs, explore DeFi opportunities, and more—directly from your desktop browser without relying on mobile confirmations for standalone use.

This non-custodial wallet puts you in full control of your private keys (via a 12-word recovery phrase that you must securely back up). It supports thousands of cryptocurrencies across Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks (like Polygon, Avalanche, BNB Chain, Optimism, Arbitrum), plus sending/receiving Solana and SPL tokens.

Key features include:

  • Seamless connection to dApps (e.g., Uniswap, OpenSea).
  • Built-in swapping and trading on DEXes.
  • NFT viewing, sending, and collecting.
  • DeFi participation (earn yield, stake, lend/borrow).
  • Multi-chain asset management.
  • Secure password/PIN protection and warnings for risky transactions.

To get started, install it from the official Chrome Web Store and either create a new wallet (with a username for easy sends) or import an existing one using your recovery phrase (compatible with MetaMask, Trust Wallet, etc.).

Official Links:

Note: Coinbase Wallet (including the extension) has evolved with integrations like Base (an Ethereum L2), but the extension remains a key tool for desktop Web3 access. Always use official sources to avoid scams.

6 Common FAQs

  1. How do I install the Coinbase Wallet extension? Visit the official Chrome Web Store link above, click "Add to Chrome," confirm permissions, then create a new wallet or import one using your 12-word recovery phrase.
  2. Is the Coinbase Wallet extension the same as the Coinbase exchange account? No—it's a separate self-custody (non-custodial) wallet where you control your keys. The exchange is custodial (Coinbase holds keys). You can link them for easy transfers, but they're distinct.
  3. What should I do with my 12-word recovery phrase? Write it down or store it securely offline (e.g., in a password manager or safe). Never share it or store it digitally in an insecure way—it's the only way to recover your wallet if you lose access. Coinbase cannot recover it for you.
  4. Does the extension support NFTs and DeFi? Yes—it lets you view, send/receive, and collect NFTs, plus interact with DeFi protocols to trade, earn yield, stake, or provide liquidity on supported networks.
  5. Can I import my wallet from MetaMask or another provider? Yes—select "Import a wallet" during setup and enter your existing recovery phrase. It works with most Ethereum-based wallets, and your assets/transactions will sync across devices.
  6. Is the extension secure, and what if I encounter issues? It uses local key storage, password protection, and transaction warnings. For help with setup, connections, or troubleshooting, check the official Coinbase Help Center or contact their support—avoid unofficial sites or unsolicited messages.

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