Coinbase Extension® — Getting Started | Coinbase Wallet®
The Coinbase Extension® is a powerful browser-based companion to Coinbase Wallet®, designed to make managing digital assets, connecting to decentralized applications, and protecting your crypto identity simple and secure. Whether you are brand new to Web3 or already comfortable using blockchain tools, this complete getting started guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start using the Coinbase Extension with confidence.
What Is the Coinbase Extension®?
The Coinbase Extension® is a browser extension available for Chrome-based browsers and Firefox. It functions as a non-custodial wallet interface, meaning you control your private keys directly instead of trusting them to a centralized service. Through the extension, you can store tokens, send and receive crypto, interact with decentralized finance platforms, trade NFTs, and securely connect to Web3 applications.
Unlike logging into a normal website, the extension works as your digital identity across the decentralized internet. When a website asks to connect to your wallet, the Coinbase Extension lets you approve or reject that request instantly, giving you full control over every interaction.
How Coinbase Wallet® Works With the Extension
Coinbase Wallet® is a standalone wallet product separate from the Coinbase exchange. The Coinbase Extension® is simply the browser version of that wallet, synchronized with your mobile Coinbase Wallet app if you choose to connect them.
This pairing gives you flexibility:
- Use your phone when on the go.
- Use your browser extension when trading NFTs, interacting with dApps, or managing tokens on desktop.
- Maintain full ownership of your private keys at all times.
Installing the Coinbase Extension®
Getting started takes just a few minutes.
- Visit the official browser extension store for your browser.
- Search for “Coinbase Wallet Extension.”
- Confirm the publisher is Coinbase to avoid fake versions.
- Click Add to Browser and wait for the installation to complete.
After installation, you will see the Coinbase Wallet icon appear in your browser toolbar.
Creating a New Wallet
When opening the Coinbase Extension® for the first time, you will be asked whether you want to create a new wallet or import an existing one.
To create a new wallet:
- Choose Create New Wallet.
- Accept the terms of service.
- Set a strong password for local access.
- Write down your recovery phrase (also called the seed phrase) and store it offline.
This recovery phrase is the most important part of your wallet. Anyone who has it can access your funds. Never store it in cloud storage, screenshots, or emails.
Importing an Existing Wallet
If you already use Coinbase Wallet® on your phone or another device, you can import it into the extension.
- Select Import Existing Wallet.
- Enter your 12-word recovery phrase.
- Set a password for the extension.
Once imported, your balances and transaction history will appear instantly.
Understanding the Dashboard
The main dashboard of the Coinbase Extension® shows:
- Your wallet address.
- Total asset balance.
- Individual token holdings.
- Recent transactions.
From here, you can:
- Send or receive crypto.
- View NFT collections.
- Swap tokens.
- Connect to decentralized applications.
Sending and Receiving Crypto
To receive crypto:
- Click Receive.
- Copy your wallet address or scan the QR code.
- Share this address with the sender.
To send crypto:
- Click Send.
- Paste the recipient’s address.
- Enter the amount.
- Confirm the network and transaction fee.
- Approve the transaction.
Always double-check addresses before sending, as blockchain transactions are irreversible.
Connecting to Web3 Apps
One of the biggest advantages of the Coinbase Extension® is its ability to connect directly to decentralized applications.
When a Web3 site requests wallet access, a popup appears asking you to approve or deny the connection. If approved, the app can view your public wallet address and request transaction signatures, but it cannot move your funds without your permission.
This makes the extension your digital passport to DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, blockchain games, and DAO dashboards.
Managing Multiple Networks
Coinbase Wallet® supports many blockchains including Ethereum, Polygon, Base, BNB Chain, Avalanche, and others.
From the extension menu you can:
- Switch between networks.
- Add custom RPC networks.
- View balances across different chains.
This multi-chain support allows you to manage diverse assets without juggling multiple wallets.
NFT Support
The Coinbase Extension® lets you view, store, and transfer NFTs. Your NFT gallery shows artwork, collectibles, and in-game items held by your wallet. You can send NFTs just like tokens, making it easy to trade or gift digital collectibles.
Security Best Practices
To stay safe while using the Coinbase Extension:
- Never share your recovery phrase.
- Use a strong unique password.
- Lock the extension when not in use.
- Only connect to trusted Web3 sites.
- Verify transaction details before approving.
Keeping your browser and operating system updated adds another layer of protection.
Syncing With Mobile Coinbase Wallet®
You can pair the browser extension with your mobile Coinbase Wallet app by scanning a QR code. This lets you manage the same wallet on both devices without exposing your recovery phrase again.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the extension is not showing balances, make sure the correct network is selected. If a transaction appears stuck, check the network fee or view the transaction on a blockchain explorer. Reinstalling the extension will not delete your wallet as long as you still have your recovery phrase.
Final Thoughts
The Coinbase Extension® is a complete gateway to the decentralized web, giving you direct control over your assets while remaining simple enough for beginners. Paired with Coinbase Wallet®, it delivers a seamless experience across desktop and mobile, allowing you to explore crypto, DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 applications with confidence and security.