Coinbase Wallet (Extension) — Quick Guide

A concise overview of the browser extension: install, secure, connect to dApps, and best practices for safe web3 use.

What the Wallet Extension Does

The Coinbase Wallet browser extension gives you a private, client-side wallet inside your browser. It stores your keys locally, lets you sign transactions, and connects securely to decentralized applications (dApps) without exposing secret keys to websites. This document explains typical features and practical steps to get started.

Core features

  • Key Management: Create, import, and manage a seed phrase and individual account addresses.
  • dApp Connections: Approve website requests to view addresses and request transaction signatures.
  • Multi-Chain Support: View balances across Ethereum and compatible networks, switch networks as needed.
  • Secure Signing: All signing happens locally — private keys never leave your device.
  • Token & NFT Management: Track ERC-20 tokens and ERC-721 / ERC-1155 NFTs in a single place.

Installation & Setup

Install the extension from your browser’s official store. After installation, you will be prompted to either create a new wallet or import an existing one. Creating a new wallet generates a seed phrase — write it down offline and store it safely. Avoid copying the seed phrase into files or cloud storage that could be accessed by malware.

Step-by-step

  1. Install the extension from the Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, or your browser’s trusted store.
  2. Open the extension and choose “Create a new wallet” or “Import wallet” if you already have a seed phrase.
  3. Set a strong local password used to unlock the extension on your device.
  4. Securely store the recovery phrase offline (paper/metal backups are recommended).
  5. Optional: enable extra protections such as hardware wallet integration (Ledger/Trezor) when available.

Using the Extension with dApps

When you visit a web3 site that supports wallet connections, the site will request a connection. You will see a popup listing requested permissions — usually just your public address and a request to ask you to sign a transaction. Read each permission and transaction detail carefully before approving.

Common actions

  • Connect: Approve the dApp’s request to view your address.
  • Sign: Confirm messages or transactions; signatures are a normal part of interacting with smart contracts.
  • Switch Network: Some dApps require a specific network (e.g., Ethereum Mainnet, Polygon); you can switch networks inside the extension.

Security Best Practices

Security is paramount. Always verify the URL of the website you connect to. Use hardware wallets for large balances. Never share your seed phrase, and be cautious of unexpected connection requests or signing prompts — malicious dApps sometimes attempt to trick users into signing harmful transactions.

Quick safety checklist

  • Keep software and OS updated.
  • Use a dedicated browser profile for crypto activity.
  • Confirm transaction details (recipient, amount, gas) before approving.
  • Consider a hardware wallet for significant funds.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

If the extension does not appear or dApps cannot connect, try restarting your browser, confirming the extension is enabled, and that the site is using HTTPS. If you lost your password but still have your seed phrase, you can recover the wallet by importing the phrase in a fresh extension install. If the seed phrase is lost and the wallet is locked, recovery is not possible — seed phrases are the sole backup.

Common questions

  • Can I use multiple accounts? Yes — most extensions allow creating multiple addresses under a single seed phrase.
  • Are funds stored on Coinbase servers? No — funds are controlled by keys on your device.
  • What if I see a suspicious signature request? Reject it and investigate; contact official support channels of the dApp you were using.