01 / YOUR ASSETS
A wallet you control
Your wallet is managed with private keys. You’re responsible for safeguarding your recovery phrase and approving every transaction.
YOUR WEB3 STARTING POINT
Meet your wallet
for the open internet.
A clear, no-nonsense guide to the Coinbase Wallet browser extension—what it does, how to get started, and the simple habits that help keep your crypto safer.
Self-custody means you control your recovery phrase.
One wallet, many possibilitiesExplore dapps on your terms
AN INDEPENDENT EDUCATIONAL GUIDELearn • Connect • Protect
THE ESSENTIALS
What is the Coinbase Wallet Extension?
It’s a self-custody browser wallet that helps you interact with decentralized apps. Think of it as a bridge between your browser and Web3—not a bank account or a Coinbase exchange account.
02 / YOUR BROWSER
Connect to dapps
Connect to supported decentralized applications, such as marketplaces and DeFi tools, and review requests before you approve them.
03 / YOUR CHOICE
Use Web3 with care
Explore tokens, NFTs, and blockchain networks. Availability, fees, and features vary by network and application.
Wallet vs. exchange: A self-custody wallet is different from a Coinbase account. A wallet gives you control of the keys—and with that control comes responsibility.
Learn from CoinbaseA SIMPLE FIRST SESSION
Getting started,
step by step.
Always download wallet software from the official source. Never follow an unsolicited link or share your recovery phrase with anyone.
Go to Coinbase WalletFind the official extension
Use Coinbase’s official Wallet page to find current installation instructions and supported browsers. Verify the publisher before installing.
Create or import a wallet
Follow the in-wallet prompts. If creating a wallet, carefully back up the recovery phrase offline in a private, secure place.
Secure your access
Set a strong password or device lock where available. Never store your recovery phrase in chat, email, screenshots, or cloud notes.
Connect only when ready
Visit a dapp using its verified address. Review permissions and transaction details before confirming anything in your wallet.
SECURITY, ALWAYS
Your keys. Your responsibility.
Blockchain transactions are generally irreversible. Slow down, verify what you’re signing, and treat unexpected prompts as a reason to pause.
Keep your phrase private
Coinbase support will never ask for your recovery phrase. Anyone who gets it may be able to access your wallet.
Check every approval
Confirm the site, network, recipient, and requested permissions. Reject transactions you don’t understand.
Verify sites and links
Watch for lookalike domains, sponsored search results, fake support accounts, and unsolicited messages.
!
Remember: No wallet can guarantee protection from scams, malicious software, or user error. Consider using a small amount when testing an unfamiliar app.
GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions about wallet extensions and getting started.
Is Coinbase Wallet the same as Coinbase? +
No. Coinbase Wallet is a self-custody wallet product. A Coinbase exchange account is a separate service. Account features and availability may differ by region.
Does the wallet extension cost anything? +
Installing a wallet may be free, but blockchain network fees can apply when sending assets or interacting with applications. Fees vary and are not set by this guide.
Can Coinbase recover my wallet phrase? +
With a self-custody wallet, you’re responsible for your recovery phrase. If it is lost, recovery may not be possible. Keep a secure offline backup and never share it.
How do I know a dapp is safe? +
No single check guarantees a dapp is safe. Verify its official URL independently, research the project, inspect wallet prompts carefully, and avoid connecting if anything seems unusual.
READY TO EXPLORE?
Take your first Web3 step
with confidence.
Start with official resources, protect your recovery phrase, and make every connection intentional.
Visit the official Coinbase Wallet page Opens coinbase.com in a new tab.