Coinbase Wallet Extension® — Getting Started

The Coinbase Wallet Extension® gives you a convenient way to interact with decentralized applications (dApps), manage supported digital assets, and explore Web3 directly from your desktop browser. Unlike a traditional exchange account, a self-custody wallet puts you in control of your wallet credentials and transaction approvals.

This guide explains the basic steps for getting started, securing your wallet, connecting to Web3 applications, and making your first transaction.

What Is Coinbase Wallet Extension?

A wallet extension is a browser-based interface that lets you access your self-custody wallet while using a computer. It can help you view supported assets, manage accounts, connect with compatible dApps, and approve blockchain transactions without leaving your browser.

Because the wallet is self-custodial, you are responsible for protecting the recovery information associated with it. Coinbase Wallet and Coinbase exchange accounts are separate products, so it is important to understand which service you are using before transferring funds.

Before You Begin

Before installing or setting up a wallet extension, make sure you are using a supported browser and obtaining the extension from an official source. Avoid downloading wallet software from advertisements, unofficial websites, browser pop-ups, or links sent through unsolicited messages.

You should also have a secure place ready for storing your recovery phrase if the setup process provides one. Never save a recovery phrase in a public document, send it through email or messaging apps, or share it with another person.

Installing the Wallet Extension

To begin, obtain the wallet extension through the official Coinbase Wallet website or the appropriate official browser extension marketplace.

After installation:

1. Open the extension from your browser toolbar.
2. Select the option to create a new wallet or access an existing wallet.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Create a strong password when prompted.
5. Carefully review the wallet's recovery information and security instructions.

The exact screens and options may change as the product is updated. Always rely on the instructions displayed by the official wallet application rather than third-party setup guides.

Protecting Your Recovery Phrase

Your recovery phrase is one of the most important pieces of information associated with a self-custody wallet. It may be used to restore access to your wallet if you lose access to your device or browser.

Treat the phrase like a master key.

Write it down carefully and store it somewhere secure and private. Consider protecting it from theft, loss, fire, and unauthorized access. Do not photograph it, upload it to cloud storage, or enter it into websites claiming to provide wallet support.

No legitimate support representative should ask you to reveal your recovery phrase or private keys.

If someone obtains your recovery phrase, they may be able to control the assets in the wallet. Blockchain transactions are generally irreversible, so protecting this information is essential.

Understanding Your Wallet

Once your extension is set up, take some time to familiarize yourself with its interface. Depending on the supported network and current product features, you may see information such as:

• Wallet addresses
• Digital asset balances
• Network selections
• Transaction history
• Account settings
• dApp connections
• Send and receive functions

Your wallet address is different from your recovery phrase. An address can generally be shared when someone needs to send you an asset, while your recovery phrase and private keys must remain confidential.

Receiving Digital Assets

To receive an asset, select the appropriate receive option and review the wallet address shown for the selected network.

Always verify the network and address before sending funds. Some assets may exist on multiple blockchain networks, and sending an asset through an unsupported or incompatible network can result in a loss of funds.

For larger transfers, consider sending a small test transaction first. After confirming that the funds arrived correctly, you can proceed with the remaining amount.

Sending Digital Assets

When sending assets, enter or paste the recipient's address and select the appropriate network and asset.

Before confirming, carefully check:

• Recipient address
• Asset type
• Network
• Amount
• Estimated network fee
• Final transaction details

A wallet extension may display a transaction confirmation window before submitting the transaction to the blockchain. Review every detail before approving it.

Never approve a transaction simply because a website tells you that it is required to unlock rewards, fix an account, or verify your wallet.

Connecting to dApps

One of the main benefits of a browser wallet is the ability to connect with compatible decentralized applications.

When visiting a dApp, you may see a Connect Wallet button. Select the wallet option supported by the application and review the connection request in your extension.

A connection does not automatically mean that the application can freely spend your assets. However, dApps can request specific permissions or ask you to sign messages and transactions. Read each request carefully before approving it.

Only connect your wallet to websites you trust.

Avoiding Common Scams

Web3 users frequently encounter phishing attempts and fraudulent websites. Be particularly cautious of messages claiming that your wallet has been suspended, compromised, or selected for a reward.

Common warning signs include:

• Requests for your recovery phrase
• Fake customer-support accounts
• Urgent requests to transfer funds
• Unfamiliar wallet-connection requests
• Promises of guaranteed cryptocurrency returns
• Websites with suspicious or misspelled domain names
• Requests to sign transactions you do not understand

When in doubt, stop the transaction and independently verify the website and request through official sources.

Keeping Your Wallet Secure

Good wallet security starts with protecting your browser, computer, and recovery information.

Keep your operating system and browser updated, use a strong unique password, and avoid installing unknown browser extensions. Consider using additional security measures available on your device and regularly review connected applications.

If you no longer recognize a dApp connection or authorization, review your wallet's available security and connection-management options.

Getting Started With Confidence

The Coinbase Wallet Extension can provide a straightforward way to access self-custody Web3 features from your desktop browser. The most important principle is that control comes with responsibility: you should understand what you are approving and protect the credentials that control your wallet.

Start with small transactions while learning how networks, fees, addresses, and dApp permissions work. Verify every website and transaction, keep your recovery phrase private, and use official product resources whenever you need assistance.

With these practices in place, you can approach your Web3 experience with greater confidence while maintaining control over your self-custody wallet.