Set Up Your Coinbase Wallet Extension
Learn how to install, configure, and start using the Coinbase Wallet browser extension. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process safely and securely.
Download the Extension
Get the Coinbase Wallet extension from the Chrome Web Store
First, open your Chrome browser and navigate to the Chrome Web Store. Search for "Coinbase Wallet" or use the direct link. Look for the official extension published by Coinbase - it should have thousands of users and good reviews. Click "Add to Chrome" and confirm the installation when prompted. The extension icon will appear in your browser toolbar.
💡 Pro Tips
- Only download from the official Chrome Web Store
- Verify the publisher is "Coinbase"
- Check that it has good ratings and reviews
Create Your Wallet
Set up a new wallet or import an existing one
Click on the Coinbase Wallet extension icon in your browser toolbar. You'll see two options: "Create a new wallet" or "Import an existing wallet". If you're new to crypto, select "Create a new wallet". If you already have a wallet, choose "Import an existing wallet" and have your recovery phrase ready. For new wallets, you'll be guided through the setup process step by step.
💡 Pro Tips
- Choose a strong, unique password
- Never share your recovery phrase with anyone
- Consider creating a new wallet for security
Secure Your Recovery Phrase
Write down and safely store your 12-word recovery phrase
Your recovery phrase is the most important part of wallet security. It's a series of 12 random words that can restore access to your wallet. Write these words down on paper in the exact order shown. Never store them digitally or take screenshots. Store the written phrase in a safe, secure location - preferably multiple copies in different safe places.
💡 Pro Tips
- Write on paper, never store digitally
- Double-check the word order and spelling
- Store in multiple secure locations
- Never share with anyone, including Coinbase support
Verify Your Recovery Phrase
Confirm you wrote down your recovery phrase correctly
The wallet will ask you to verify your recovery phrase by selecting words in the correct order. This ensures you wrote it down correctly. Use your written copy to complete this verification step. If you make a mistake, go back and double-check your written phrase against what's shown on screen.
💡 Pro Tips
- Use your written copy, not memory
- Take your time to ensure accuracy
- If you make errors, rewrite your phrase
Fund Your Wallet
Add cryptocurrency to your new wallet
Your wallet is now ready to receive cryptocurrency. You can fund it in several ways: transfer from another wallet, buy directly through the wallet using a debit card or bank account, or receive crypto from someone else. To receive funds, click "Receive" and copy your wallet address. Always double-check addresses before sending funds.
💡 Pro Tips
- Start with small amounts to test
- Always verify wallet addresses
- Keep transaction records for taxes
Explore DeFi and dApps
Connect to decentralized applications safely
Your Coinbase Wallet can connect to thousands of decentralized applications (dApps). Look for the "Browser" tab in your wallet. Popular categories include DeFi (decentralized finance), NFT marketplaces, and games. Always research platforms before connecting your wallet. You can disconnect from dApps at any time through your wallet settings.
💡 Pro Tips
- Research dApps before connecting
- Start with well-known platforms
- Review permissions before connecting
- Disconnect from unused dApps regularly
Important Security Reminders
- • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, including Coinbase support
- • Always verify website URLs before entering sensitive information
- • Use strong, unique passwords for your wallet
- • Enable two-factor authentication when available
- • Start with small amounts when testing new features