What is the Coinbase Wallet extension?
The Coinbase Wallet extension is a browser-based wallet that runs locally in your browser. It allows you to manage your self-custody crypto assets, interact with decentralized applications (dApps), and sign transactions from your own device. Because the wallet stores keys locally, you remain in control of your private keys and recovery phrase.
Before you begin
- Choose a secure computer and avoid public or shared devices.
- Have a safe method to record and store a recovery phrase—preferably offline (paper or metal backup).
- Understand that the recovery phrase is the master key to your wallet—anyone with it can access your funds.
Step-by-step: Adding the extension
Below are the general steps you will follow inside your browser. These steps are intentionally generic and do not include links or requests for credentials.
- Open your browser's extension / add-on manager.
- Search for the official Coinbase Wallet extension by name (verify the publisher before installing).
- Install the extension. Once installed, pin it to the toolbar for quick access.
- Open the extension and choose whether to create a new wallet or restore an existing one using a recovery phrase you already own.
Creating a new wallet
If you create a new wallet, the extension will generate a recovery phrase for you. Treat this phrase as your most important secret.
Security note: Never share your recovery phrase. Do not type it into websites, store it in cloud services, or photograph it. Keep it offline and in multiple secure copies if possible.
Restoring an existing wallet
To restore, you will enter your recovery phrase into the extension when prompted. Only do this on devices you trust. The extension will recreate your wallet and addresses locally.
Basic settings and safety tips
- Enable any available extension-level passcode or biometric lock if your browser/device supports it.
- Use a hardware wallet for large balances—linking a hardware device to the extension increases security.
- Be cautious with dApps: read the permission requests and avoid giving blanket approvals.
- Regularly review connected sites and clear permissions you don’t recognize.
How transactions work
When you initiate a transaction or a dApp request, the extension will show a confirmation screen summarizing gas fees, recipient address, and the action you’re approving. Carefully review these details before confirming. If something looks wrong, cancel the action and investigate.
Common troubleshooting
- If the extension is not responding, try disabling and re-enabling it in the browser extensions page.
- Clear your browser cache or restart the browser if pages fail to connect to the extension.
- If you cannot access your wallet, restoring from your recovery phrase on a trusted device is the standard recovery method.
Privacy considerations
Your wallet activity—addresses, on-chain transactions, and dApp interactions—are visible on the public blockchain. Use fresh addresses for privacy-sensitive activity and avoid reusing addresses when practical.
Quick checklist before you finish
- Recovery phrase securely recorded and stored offline.
- Browser and OS updated to the latest stable versions.
- Two-factor authentication enabled on your exchange or other custodial accounts (separate from the wallet extension).
- Small test transaction before sending significant amounts.
Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or security advice. Always verify extension publishers and exercise caution when managing private keys and recovery phrases. You are solely responsible for the security of your wallet and private keys.