What is Coinbase Wallet Extension?
The Coinbase Wallet browser extension is a lightweight, self-custodial wallet that integrates with popular browsers and decentralized applications (dApps).
Unlike custodial wallets (where an exchange holds your keys), a browser wallet stores your private keys locally — giving you direct control over assets, NFTs,
and interactions with Web3 protocols. The extension typically supports network switching, dApp connections via window.ethereum-style APIs, and transaction signing.
Why use a browser wallet extension?
Browser wallet extensions balance convenience with control. They are ideal for:
- Quickly connecting to dApps, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi interfaces.
- Managing multiple accounts without re-entering seed phrases every time.
- Signing transactions locally and reviewing gas fees before confirmation.
Security model — what you need to know
Self-custody means full responsibility. Key points to keep in mind:
- Seed phrase safety: The recovery phrase is the ultimate backup — store it offline in a secure place and never share it.
- Phishing awareness: Only connect to trusted dApps and check domain names. Scammers may mimic popular sites to trick wallet popups.
- Hardware wallets: For high-value holdings, consider pairing the extension with a hardware wallet to keep private keys offline.
Getting started — setup checklist
A short, practical checklist to install and set up the extension securely:
- Install the official extension from your browser's web store (verify publisher and reviews).
- Create a new wallet or import using an existing seed phrase (never import to untrusted devices).
- Write down the recovery phrase on paper (or use a hardware backup) and store it safely.
- Enable a strong password for local unlocking and consider biometric unlocking if available.
- Review connected sites and revoke access to unknown dApps regularly.
Features you’ll commonly use
The extension usually offers: multiple network support (mainnet & testnets), token management, NFT viewing, transaction history, custom RPC endpoints, and built-in fiat onramp options. Many extensions include a simple interface to swap tokens, add custom tokens by contract address, and connect to hardware wallets.
Privacy considerations
Browser wallets can expose on-chain addresses to websites you connect to. Use separate accounts (addresses) for different purposes when privacy matters, and consider using privacy-enhancing tools or networks for sensitive transactions.
Best practices for everyday use
- Keep small balances in the extension for daily use; store long-term holdings in hardware wallets.
- Lock the extension when not in use and clear connected sites periodically.
- Verify transaction metadata in the popup before approving (recipient address, amount, gas).
- Keep your browser and extensions up to date to benefit from security patches.
Developer notes (for dApp integrators)
dApps should detect provider availability gracefully and request the minimum permissions needed. Use standard wallets APIs for account requests and handle rejection flows clearly.
A note on UX: clear, non-technical transaction prompts help users avoid errors — show human-readable summaries and link to on-chain explorers for transparency.