Coinbase Extension® — Getting Started | Coinbase Wallet®

Coinbase Extension – Secure Access to Your Crypto from Your Browser

The Coinbase Extension is a browser-based wallet that allows users to safely manage cryptocurrencies and interact with decentralized applications (dApps) directly from their web browser. Compatible with Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave, it provides a convenient and secure way to send, receive, and store digital assets while keeping private keys encrypted and stored locally.

With Coinbase Extension, you gain full control over your crypto, bridging the gap between traditional exchanges and the decentralized web.

What Is Coinbase Extension?

Coinbase Extension is a browser wallet that enables users to:

• Access and manage cryptocurrencies directly from the browser
• Connect securely to decentralized applications (DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, blockchain games)
• Sign transactions safely without exposing private keys
• Create and manage multiple accounts
• Track portfolio balances, send and receive crypto, and manage tokens

Unlike custodial wallets, Coinbase Extension keeps private keys encrypted on your device, so only you have access to your funds.

Key Features of Coinbase Extension

1. Secure Wallet Management

• Store cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and other supported tokens
• Private keys are encrypted and never leave your device
• Multiple wallet accounts can be managed from a single extension

2. Easy Transactions

• Send and receive crypto directly in your browser
• Approve and confirm transactions securely within the extension
• Set custom fees to control transaction speed and cost

3. Web3 and dApp Integration

• Connect to decentralized applications for DeFi, NFTs, and blockchain gaming
• Transactions must be approved, ensuring security and control
• Compatible with Ethereum and Ethereum-compatible networks

4. Multi-Account and Network Support

• Manage multiple accounts seamlessly
• Switch between accounts with ease
• Add custom Ethereum-compatible networks (Polygon, Binance Smart Chain, Avalanche)

5. Portfolio Tracking

• Monitor balances, transaction history, and token allocations
• Add custom tokens to track all digital assets
• Get real-time updates on portfolio performance

How to Install Coinbase Extension

Step 1: Visit the Official Coinbase Website

• Go to https://www.coinbase.com/wallet
• Click Download Wallet and select your browser

Step 2: Add to Browser

• Click Add to Chrome/Firefox/Edge/Brave
• Confirm by clicking Add Extension

Step 3: Set Up Your Wallet

• Create a new wallet or import an existing wallet using your recovery phrase
• Set a strong password for browser access
• Securely store your recovery phrase offline

Step 4: Start Using Coinbase Extension

• Send, receive, and swap supported cryptocurrencies
• Connect securely to decentralized apps
• Monitor balances and portfolio activity in real-time

Security Features of Coinbase Extension

• Local Private Key Storage – Keys are encrypted and stored on your device
• Password and Recovery Phrase – Protects wallet access and allows recovery
• Transaction Confirmation – All transactions must be approved by the user
• Phishing Protection – Alerts for suspicious websites
• Hardware Wallet Support – Can integrate with Ledger devices for added security

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Coinbase Extension supports:

• Bitcoin (BTC)
• Ethereum (ETH) and ERC-20 tokens
• Ethereum-compatible network tokens (Polygon, Avalanche, Binance Smart Chain)
• NFTs on supported networks

Coinbase Extension vs Coinbase Mobile App

Common Issues and Solutions

• Extension Not Loading: Refresh your browser or reinstall the extension
• Forgot Password: Restore wallet using your recovery phrase
• Transaction Stuck: Adjust network fees or retry
• Connecting to dApps Fails: Clear browser cache or reconnect network
• Phishing Alerts: Always verify website URLs before approving transactions

Best Practices

• Download Coinbase Extension only from official Coinbase sources (https://www.coinbase.com/wallet)
• Keep your recovery phrase offline and secure
• Use a strong, unique password
• Enable hardware wallet integration for additional security
• Regularly update the extension for security and performance improvements

Final Thoughts

The Coinbase Extension is a secure and convenient browser-based wallet for managing cryptocurrencies and interacting with decentralized applications. By keeping private keys locally and requiring user approval for transactions, it provides maximum security while offering easy access to Web3 platforms.

Whether sending crypto, swapping tokens, or connecting to DeFi and NFT platforms, Coinbase Extension gives you full control over your digital assets directly from your browser.