Coinbase Wallet Extension® — Starting Up Your Device | Trezor

The Coinbase Wallet Extension® is a powerful tool for securely managing your crypto assets directly from your browser. Designed for both beginners and experienced users, this browser extension allows you to interact with decentralized applications (dApps), send and receive cryptocurrencies, and manage your assets safely. When paired with a Trezor hardware wallet, your digital funds gain an extra layer of security, ensuring that your private keys never leave the device. In this guide, we’ll walk you through setting up your Coinbase Wallet Extension® and integrating it with your Trezor device, so you can start managing your crypto seamlessly.

Why Use Coinbase Wallet Extension®?

Unlike standard crypto wallets, the Coinbase Wallet Extension® operates as a secure browser plugin, enabling direct interaction with web-based blockchain applications. This makes it ideal for users who frequently access decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, NFT marketplaces, or other Web3 services.

Some of the key benefits include:

  • Private Key Security: Your keys remain encrypted and under your control.
  • Easy Integration: Connect effortlessly to platforms like Uniswap, OpenSea, and Compound.
  • Cross-Device Sync: Manage your wallet across your desktop and mobile devices.
  • Trezor Compatibility: Enhance security by pairing with a hardware wallet.

For users interested in maximizing security, pairing the Coinbase Wallet Extension® with Trezor hardware wallets ensures that all transactions require physical approval, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Step 1: Install the Coinbase Wallet Extension®

  1. Open your preferred browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Brave).
  2. Visit the official Coinbase Wallet Extension page to download the plugin.
  3. Click “Add to Browser” and follow the on-screen installation instructions.
  4. Once installed, a small wallet icon will appear in your browser toolbar.

Pro Tip: Always verify that you are downloading from the official Coinbase website to avoid phishing scams.

Step 2: Create or Import Your Wallet

After installing the extension, you have the option to create a new wallet or import an existing one:

  • Create a New Wallet:
    1. Click on the Coinbase Wallet icon in your browser.
    2. Choose “Create New Wallet.”
    3. Set a strong password and backup your 12-word recovery phrase securely offline.
  • Import an Existing Wallet:
    1. Click “Import Wallet.”
    2. Enter your 12 or 24-word recovery phrase.
    3. Set a new password for the extension.
Important: Never store your recovery phrase digitally or share it online. It’s the key to your funds.

Step 3: Connect Coinbase Wallet Extension® to Trezor

Integrating Trezor hardware wallet with your Coinbase Wallet Extension® provides an additional layer of protection. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Coinbase Wallet Extension® and go to “Settings.”
  2. Select “Connect Hardware Wallet” and choose Trezor.
  3. Connect your Trezor device via USB or supported connection.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to approve the connection on your Trezor device.
  5. Once connected, all wallet transactions will require confirmation directly on your hardware device.

This integration ensures your private keys remain offline while allowing seamless interaction with Web3 platforms.

Step 4: Fund and Manage Your Wallet

Once your wallet is set up and linked to Trezor, you can start managing your assets:

  • Receive Crypto: Copy your wallet address or use the QR code to receive funds.
  • Send Crypto: Enter the recipient’s address, specify the amount, and approve the transaction on your Trezor device.
  • Interact with dApps: Access DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and staking platforms directly through the browser extension.
Tip: Regularly update both your Coinbase Wallet Extension® and Trezor firmware to maintain the highest security standards.