Coinbase Wallet Extension: Your Browser-Based Crypto Gateway

The Coinbase Wallet Extension is a non‑custodial browser plugin that lets you interact directly with decentralized applications (dApps) on Ethereum and EVM‑compatible chains—right from Chrome or other Chromium‑based browsers. Unlike the main Coinbase.com exchange, this extension gives you full control of your private keys locally, enabling seamless Web3 access while keeping custody in your hands.

🛠️ Installation & Setup

1. Download from Official Source
   • Visit https://wallet.coinbase.com/extension and click “Add to Chrome” (or Edge/Brave).
2. Create or Import a Wallet
   • New Wallet: Follow the prompts to generate a new account and set a strong password.
   • Import Wallet: Use your 12‑ or 24‑word recovery phrase from an existing wallet.
3. Secure Your Recovery Phrase
   • Write it down on paper and store it offline. Coinbase Wallet never sends it to servers.

🔑 Key Features

• Non‑Custodial Control: Your private keys and recovery phrase are encrypted in your browser’s local storage—only you have access.
• Multi‑Chain Support: Built‑in networks include Ethereum, Polygon, Binance Smart Chain, Avalanche, Fantom, and more. Easily switch between them.
• dApp Browser API: Injects a window.ethereum provider that dApps detect automatically, enabling “Connect Wallet” flows.
• Send & Receive Crypto: Built‑in interface for transfers, with QR‑code support and address book functionality.
• Token Management: View ERC‑20/ERC‑721 tokens, add custom tokens by contract address, and track balances.
• Swap Feature: On‑chain token swaps with aggregated liquidity sources for competitive rates (powered by 0x API).
• DeFi & NFT Integrations: Supports WalletConnect for even broader dApp compatibility, plus NFT viewing for supported chains.

🔒 Security Best Practices

• Never share your recovery phrase—anyone with it controls your funds.
• Use a strong, unique password to encrypt your extension data.
• Lock the Extension when not in use (click the account icon → Lock).
• Verify dApp URLs and only connect to trusted sites to avoid phishing.

With the Coinbase Wallet Extension, you get the convenience of a browser‑based wallet plus the security of non‑custodial key management—empowering you to explore DeFi, NFTs, and beyond without surrendering control of your assets.