Coinbase Wallet Extension® — Getting Started | Coinbase Wallet®

jamie carson

16 Feb 2026 — 4 min read

Coinbase Wallet Extension – Secure Access to Crypto and Web3

As cryptocurrencies and decentralized applications (dApps) become an integral part of the financial and digital landscape, having a secure, reliable, and user-friendly wallet is essential. The Coinbase Wallet Extension is designed to give users full control over their digital assets while providing seamless access to Web3 applications directly from their web browser.

Developed by Coinbase, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency platforms, the Coinbase Wallet Extension combines security, convenience, and versatility. It empowers both beginners and experienced users to manage cryptocurrencies, interact with dApps, store NFTs, and explore the decentralized internet without compromising safety.

What Is Coinbase Wallet Extension?

The Coinbase Wallet Extension is a browser-based cryptocurrency wallet that allows users to manage their digital assets and interact with Web3 applications directly from Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Brave browsers. Unlike custodial wallets provided by exchanges, Coinbase Wallet is non-custodial, meaning the user maintains full control of their private keys and funds.

With the extension, users can:

Store and manage multiple cryptocurrencies securely.
Access decentralized applications (dApps) such as DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, and blockchain games.
Swap tokens within the wallet interface.
Explore and interact with the Web3 ecosystem safely from the browser.

Key Features of Coinbase Wallet Extension

1. Full Self-Custody of Funds

Coinbase Wallet is non-custodial, meaning you control your private keys. Unlike exchange wallets, Coinbase Wallet ensures that only you can access your assets. Private keys are stored locally on your device, encrypted for security.

Security highlights include:

Locally stored, encrypted private keys.
Backup with a 12- or 24-word recovery phrase.
Optional password protection for wallet access.

2. Multi-Asset and Multi-Chain Support

The Coinbase Wallet Extension supports Ethereum and Ethereum-compatible networks, along with other major blockchains. Users can manage:

Ethereum (ETH) and ERC-20 tokens
Bitcoin (BTC) via supported networks
Polygon (MATIC), Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Avalanche, and more

This multi-chain support allows users to interact with a wide range of decentralized applications without switching wallets.

3. Seamless dApp Integration

The wallet extension allows users to connect to decentralized applications (dApps) directly from their browser. Supported applications include:

Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) for swapping tokens
Lending and borrowing platforms for DeFi
NFT marketplaces to buy, sell, and store digital collectibles
Blockchain games and other Web3-enabled platforms

All transactions must be approved on the wallet, ensuring security while interacting with smart contracts.

4. Token Management

Coinbase Wallet Extension provides an easy-to-use interface for managing cryptocurrencies:

Send and receive tokens with a few clicks.
Add custom ERC-20 or BEP-20 tokens.
Monitor transaction history and portfolio balances.

This centralized interface allows users to manage multiple assets securely and efficiently.

5. Built-In Token Swaps

The extension offers an integrated swap feature, enabling users to trade tokens directly within the wallet. The swaps are routed through decentralized liquidity sources, offering competitive rates while keeping private keys secure.

Swap between Ethereum-based tokens and other supported assets.
No need to rely on external exchanges for trading.

6. NFT Support

Coinbase Wallet supports non-fungible tokens (NFTs), providing a visual gallery for digital collectibles. Users can:

Store, send, and receive NFTs securely.
View metadata and ownership information.
Connect to NFT marketplaces for trading and collection management.

7. User-Friendly Interface

The wallet extension is designed with ease of use in mind. Beginners can navigate the wallet without difficulty, while experienced users can take advantage of advanced features like multi-chain support and DeFi integration.

8. Cross-Device Compatibility

Coinbase Wallet Extension integrates with the Coinbase Wallet mobile app, allowing users to manage assets across devices. Transactions initiated on the browser can be confirmed on mobile for additional security, providing flexibility and convenience.

How to Install and Set Up Coinbase Wallet Extension

Step 1: Install from Official Sources

Visit the official Coinbase Wallet website or the Chrome Web Store.
Click “Add to Chrome” (or the equivalent for your browser) to install the extension.

Security Tip: Only install the wallet from official sources to prevent phishing attacks or malicious clones.

Step 2: Create or Import a Wallet

Select “Create New Wallet” to generate a new wallet and recovery phrase.
Alternatively, import an existing wallet using your seed phrase.

Step 3: Secure Your Wallet

Set a strong password for browser access.
Back up the recovery phrase offline in a secure location.
Optionally enable additional security measures through the mobile app.

Step 4: Connect to Networks and dApps

Add supported networks like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, or Polygon.
Connect to dApps by approving the wallet connection within the browser.

Step 5: Manage Assets and Transactions

Send, receive, and swap tokens securely.
Interact with DeFi protocols, NFTs, and Web3 platforms.

Security Features of Coinbase Wallet Extension

The Coinbase Wallet Extension prioritizes security to protect user funds:

Non-custodial control: You retain complete ownership of private keys.
Local encryption: Private keys are stored securely on the device.
Transaction approvals: All transactions require manual confirmation.
Recovery phrase: 12- or 24-word seed phrase ensures wallet restoration.
Official audits: Coinbase Wallet undergoes regular security assessments to maintain integrity.

Advantages of Using Coinbase Wallet Extension

Full ownership of assets: You control private keys and funds.
Web3 access: Seamlessly connect to dApps and blockchain services.
Multi-chain support: Manage assets across multiple networks.
NFT management: Store and trade digital collectibles within the wallet.
Integrated swaps: Trade tokens without leaving the wallet interface.
Cross-platform functionality: Use with mobile app for added convenience.

Use Cases for Coinbase Wallet Extension

Daily cryptocurrency management: Send, receive, and track token balances directly in your browser.
Decentralized finance (DeFi): Stake, lend, or borrow assets while retaining full control.
NFT collection: Store and manage NFTs securely and trade on compatible marketplaces.
dApp interaction: Play blockchain games, participate in DeFi platforms, or use other Web3 applications.
Cross-chain operations: Manage Ethereum-compatible assets across multiple blockchains.

Best Practices for Coinbase Wallet Extension

Keep your recovery phrase offline and never share it.
Use strong, unique passwords for wallet access.
Verify all dApp and website URLs before connecting.
Regularly update the extension to the latest version.
For large holdings, consider integrating with a hardware wallet for maximum security.

Conclusion

The Coinbase Wallet Extension is a powerful tool that bridges the gap between traditional web browsers and the decentralized blockchain ecosystem. Developed by Coinbase, it provides non-custodial security, multi-chain support, NFT and token management, integrated swaps, and seamless dApp connectivity.

Whether you are a beginner exploring cryptocurrencies and DeFi for the first time or an experienced user managing complex Web3 assets, Coinbase Wallet Extension offers a secure, intuitive, and versatile platform. By keeping private keys under your control, it empowers you to explore the decentralized world confidently while maintaining ownership, security, and flexibility.