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True self-custody
Your 12-word recovery phrase stays yours. Coinbase can’t access your funds or restore a phrase you lose.
A FIELD GUIDE TO SELF-CUSTODY
Your gateway to Web3.
Your keys, your call.
Meet the Coinbase Wallet browser extension: a non-custodial companion for exploring DeFi, NFTs, and dApps without handing over control of your private keys.
✓ Self-custody means you’re responsible for your recovery phrase.
C Self-custody
TOTAL BALANCE •••
$12,840.62
◇EthereumETH · Ethereum2.48 ETH
◎SolanaSOL · Solana18.2 SOL
⬡BaseUSDC · Base840 USDC
SendReceiveSwap
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Your keys stay yoursStored securely on your device
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One walletAcross supported networks
01 SELF-CUSTODY, SIMPLIFIED
EXPLORE ACROSS WEB3EthereumSolanaBasePolygonOptimismAnd more
THE BASICS 01 / 04
What exactly is
the Wallet Extension?
It’s a self-custody crypto wallet that runs in your browser. Unlike a custodial exchange account, your private keys are stored locally on your device — so you control the assets and authorize what happens to them.
Think of it as a bridge between your browser and the decentralized web. Connect to decentralized exchanges, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi protocols while keeping custody in your hands. The extension is available for Chrome and Brave.
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Wallet ≠ exchange account
A wallet gives you control. That also means only you can protect your recovery phrase and restore access.
BUILT FOR THE WAY WEB3 WORKS 02 / 04
More reach.
More control.
One interface for everyday access and advanced tools — designed to make self-custody feel less complicated.
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One wallet, many networks
Explore Ethereum, Solana, Base, Polygon, BNB Chain, Avalanche, Optimism, and more from one place.
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Protection before you sign
Threat detection, token warnings, and transaction previews help you make more informed decisions.
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Ledger-compatible
Connect a Ledger hardware wallet and keep private keys on your device while interacting with dApps.
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Convenience when you need it. Coinbase Pay and transfers from Coinbase.com can help fund a wallet. Availability and supported payment methods vary by region.
SECURITY, BY DESIGN 03 / 04
Pause. Preview.
Then proceed.
Wallet safety is a set of habits and safeguards, not a magic switch. Here are the layers worth understanding before connecting to a dApp.
Explore Coinbase security ↗Keys encrypted on your device
Your wallet’s keys are intended to remain in local browser storage, not transmitted to Coinbase. Protect access to the device and extension.
Transaction previews
On supported networks, previews can help you understand expected balance changes before approving a transaction.
Approval and connection controls
Review token permissions and connected dApps. Revoke access you no longer need, and scrutinize unexpected requests.
Optional hardware-wallet layer
Pair a Ledger device for supported activity while keeping its private keys on the hardware device.
!
Slow down before signing. Never share your recovery phrase — not with support, a website, or anyone who messages you first. Verify the site and request before approving.
YOUR FIRST FEW MINUTES 04 / 04
Set up with
care, not rush.
The extension setup is straightforward. The recovery phrase step deserves your full attention.
Go to Coinbase Wallet ↗Install the extension
Get Coinbase Wallet from the Chrome Web Store and pin it to your browser toolbar.
Create or import
Start a new self-custody wallet, or import an existing wallet using its recovery phrase.
Secure your recovery phrase
Write down your phrase and store it offline. Never share it or save it in a screenshot or cloud note.
Set a device password
Choose a strong password to unlock the extension on this device. It is not your recovery phrase.
Fund and explore
Transfer crypto, use Coinbase Pay where available, or send funds from another wallet. Keep gas tokens handy.
BRING YOUR WALLET WITH YOU ALSO WORTH KNOWING
Already have a wallet?
You can bring it along.
Importing an existing wallet lets you access its addresses and assets from the extension. Wallets such as MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Phantom, and Solflare may be imported where compatible.
Import or connect hardware
Choose “Import an existing wallet” in the extension and follow its official instructions. For a Ledger, connect the device directly where supported — never enter its recovery phrase into a browser extension.
! Only enter a recovery phrase in the official wallet app or extension you intentionally opened. Coinbase support will never ask for it.
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THE BOTTOM LINE
Web3 on your terms.
The Coinbase Wallet extension brings self-custody, multi-chain access, and dApp connections into a familiar browser experience. It can be a helpful starting point for exploring Web3 — provided you understand that control and responsibility go hand in hand.
Self-custody reminder
You are solely responsible for your Secret Recovery Phrase. Coinbase cannot recover it if it’s lost. Always verify you’re using the official Chrome Web Store listing or coinbase.com/wallet.