Coinbase Extension  |  Secure Crypto Wallet & Trading Platform

A user-friendly guide to installing and using the Coinbase browser extension for secure wallet access, trading, dApp interaction, and essential security practices.

Overview

The Coinbase browser extension provides a clean, secure interface to manage on‑chain wallets, connect to decentralized applications, and perform simple trading actions. It is designed to complement Coinbase's web platform while keeping private keys under user control when using the extension's local wallet features.

Note: Understand whether you are using the extension as a local, non‑custodial wallet or as a bridge to your custodial Coinbase account — each mode has different security and recovery characteristics.

Install the Coinbase Extension

  1. Open your browser's official extension store (Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add‑ons, or Edge Add‑ons).
  2. Search for the official Coinbase extension and verify the publisher before installing.
  3. Pin the extension to your toolbar for quick access after installation.
Avoid third‑party sites offering the extension as downloads. Always use the official browser store and verify the extension's publisher and reviews.

Create or Restore a Wallet

  1. Create: Choose "Create New Wallet" to generate a new seed phrase — write it down on paper and store it securely offline.
  2. Restore: Choose "Import Wallet" and enter your seed phrase (12 or 24 words) to recover an existing wallet.
  3. Custodial Linking: If you link to a custodial Coinbase account for trading, understand that the exchange manages custody for those funds; follow Coinbase's account security steps for custodial balances.
If you expose your seed phrase, anyone can access your funds. Coinbase support cannot retrieve private keys for non‑custodial wallets.

Key Wallet & Trading Features

  • Account Management: Manage multiple addresses across supported chains from the extension UI.
  • Token Swaps: Perform on‑chain swaps directly in the extension using integrated liquidity sources. Review slippage and fees before confirming.
  • Buy & Sell: Where available, link with your Coinbase account to buy or sell crypto using bank transfers or card payments (custodial actions follow Coinbase's KYC and fee structure).
  • Portfolio Overview: View balances across networks and token holdings in a consolidated dashboard within the extension.
  • Network Support: Switch networks (Ethereum, Layer‑2s, etc.) and add custom RPCs when required.

Connecting to dApps & Managing Permissions

The extension allows you to connect to decentralized applications and sign transactions. Treat each connection and permission request as potentially sensitive.

  1. Review connections: When a dApp requests connection, check which accounts it will access and grant the minimum necessary permissions.
  2. Inspect transactions: Confirm recipient addresses, amounts, and contract calls in the confirmation dialog before approving.
  3. Revoke access: Periodically review connected sites and revoke access to dApps you no longer use.
Tip: Use separate accounts for active dApp usage and for long‑term holdings to minimize exposure from approvals and signed messages.

Security Best Practices

  • Store your seed phrase offline in at least two secure, geographically separated locations.
  • Prefer hardware wallets for large holdings and connect them to the extension for signing when supported.
  • Keep browser and extension up to date to receive security patches and compatibility fixes.
  • Be vigilant for phishing: always verify domain names and never enter your seed phrase on a website or in a chat.
  • Use strong device security (OS passcode, full‑disk encryption) and a reputable password manager for custodial account credentials.

Important Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Coinbase, Coinbase Wallet, and related trademarks are the property of their respective owners. When using the Coinbase extension you may use it in either a custodial mode (linked to Coinbase accounts) or a non‑custodial mode (local seed phrase). Understand the difference: custodial funds are managed under Coinbase's terms, while non‑custodial wallets give you sole control of private keys. Always verify official Coinbase sources for downloads, updates, and support. The author of this guide is not affiliated with Coinbase and cannot recover lost private keys or seed phrases.