Coinbase Extension® — Getting Started | Coinbase Start

Welcome to the official guide to the Coinbase Extension® — your browser‑based gateway to decentralized finance, crypto asset management, and seamless interaction with Web3 applications right from your browser. The Coinbase Extension brings the power of self‑custody and decentralized access directly to Chrome, Brave, Edge, and other Chromium‑based browsers, enabling secure crypto management while you browse the internet. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Whether you’re new to cryptocurrencies or an experienced blockchain user, the Coinbase Extension provides a feature‑rich yet easy‑to‑navigate interface for everything from managing tokens and NFTs to interacting with decentralized applications (dApps). This guide will walk you through what it is, how to install it, why it’s important, and best practices to get started safely. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Official Coinbase Links You Should Bookmark

Always use official sources for downloads, help, and documentation:

• https://www.coinbase.com/ — Coinbase Official Homepage
• https://www.coinbase.com/wallet — Coinbase Wallet Overview
• https://www.coinbase.com/en/learn — Coinbase Learn Center
• https://help.coinbase.com/ — Official Coinbase Help Center
• https://www.coinbase.com/start — Coinbase Getting Started Guide

What Is the Coinbase Extension?

The Coinbase Extension is a browser‑based cryptocurrency wallet and Web3 portal that lets you interact with decentralized applications (dApps), manage digital assets like tokens and NFTs, and control your private keys — all without leaving your web browser. As a non‑custodial wallet, it ensures that you hold your own private keys securely within the extension’s encrypted environment. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Unlike centralized exchange wallets, where assets are held on behalf of the user, the Coinbase Extension gives you full control and ownership of your assets. This means you can send, receive, and sign transactions with complete autonomy. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Why Use the Coinbase Extension?

• Self‑Custody Control: You retain full ownership of your private keys — Coinbase cannot access them. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Seamless dApp Connectivity: Connect instantly to decentralized exchanges, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi platforms. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Multi‑Chain Compatibility: Support for multiple networks including Ethereum and EVM‑compatible chains. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• In‑Browser Experience: Manage assets directly from your browser without extra software or mobile devices. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Integrated Token & NFT Management: View, send, receive, and organize tokens and NFTs. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

How to Install Coinbase Extension

Installing the Coinbase Extension is simple and free. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Open your favorite Chromium‑based browser such as Google Chrome, Brave, or Microsoft Edge. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
2. Visit the official Coinbase Wallet page and click the link to download the extension from the Web Store. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
3. Click “Add to Chrome” (or equivalent), then confirm to install the extension. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
4. Once installed, pin the extension icon to your browser toolbar for easy access. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
5. Open the extension to begin setup — you can either create a new wallet or import an existing one. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

Setting Up Your Wallet

After installation, Coinbase Extension will offer you two setup choices: Create a new wallet or import an existing wallet from another provider (like MetaMask). In both cases, backing up your recovery phrase safely is critical — Coinbase cannot recover it for you if lost. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Create a New Wallet

• Click “Create New Wallet” in the extension interface. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Write down and safely store your 12‑word recovery phrase offline. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Create a secure password to protect your wallet within the extension. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Claim your unique username (optional) to help others find you. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

Import an Existing Wallet

• Select “Import Wallet” upon first opening the extension. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Enter the 12‑word recovery phrase from your previous wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Set a new password for extension access. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
• Your wallet will now be accessible via the Coinbase Extension with full transaction and balance history. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

Security Best Practices

Since the Coinbase Extension handles your private keys and access to decentralized finance, following security best practices is essential:

• Always download the extension from official Coinbase links only. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
• Never enter your recovery phrase into unknown sites or extensions. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
• Use strong, unique passwords and enable hardware wallets for large balances when possible. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
• Beware of phishing sites and check URLs carefully before approving transactions. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}