How to add custom networks to Coinbase Wallet?

Understanding Custom Networks in Coinbase Wallet

Adding custom networks to Coinbase Wallet allows users to interact with blockchain networks beyond the default ones supported by the wallet. This feature is particularly useful for developers, DeFi users, or anyone engaging with non-mainstream blockchains such as testnets, sidechains, or EVM-compatible chains like Polygon, Binance Smart Chain, or Avalanche. The ability to manually configure a network enables access to dApps, tokens, and smart contracts deployed on those chains. It's essential to understand that Coinbase Wallet supports EVM-compatible networks, meaning any blockchain using Ethereum’s Virtual Machine structure can be added if the correct parameters are provided.

Prerequisites Before Adding a Custom Network

Before attempting to add a custom network, ensure your Coinbase Wallet app is updated to the latest version from the App Store or Google Play. Older versions may not support the custom network feature. You must also have a wallet already created or imported into the app. Internet connectivity is required, and you should never perform this process on public Wi-Fi for security reasons. Most importantly, gather the correct network parameters for the blockchain you intend to add. These include:

• Network Name
• New RPC URL (Remote Procedure Call endpoint)
• Chain ID
• Currency Symbol
• Block Explorer URL

These details are typically available on the official website of the blockchain or through community documentation. Entering incorrect data may result in failed transactions or loss of funds.

Accessing the Network Settings in Coinbase Wallet

To begin the process, open the Coinbase Wallet app on your mobile device. Tap on your profile icon located in the top-left corner of the home screen. This will open the Settings menu. From there, scroll down and select 'Connected sites & networks'. Then tap on 'Networks'. You’ll see a list of default networks such as Ethereum Mainnet, Optimism, Arbitrum, and Polygon. At the bottom of the list, tap the 'Add a network' option. This will bring up a form where you can input the required details for your custom blockchain.

Entering Custom Network Details

Once you tap 'Add a network', you’ll be presented with a form that requires specific inputs. Fill in each field carefully:

• Network Name: Enter a recognizable name, such as 'Fantom Opera' or 'BNB Smart Chain'
• New RPC URL: Input the HTTPS endpoint provided by the blockchain’s node provider (e.g., https://rpc.ankr.com/fantom)
• Chain ID: This is a unique number identifying the blockchain (e.g., 250 for Fantom)
• Currency Symbol: The native token symbol (e.g., FTM, BNB, AVAX)
• Block Explorer URL: The base URL for transaction lookup (e.g., https://ftmscan.com)

After entering all fields, tap 'Save'. The wallet will attempt to validate the connection. If successful, the network will appear in your network list. If validation fails, double-check each parameter, especially the RPC URL and Chain ID, as even a single incorrect character can prevent connection.

Switching and Using the Custom Network

Once the network is saved, you can switch to it by returning to the Networks menu and selecting your newly added network. The active network will be highlighted. After switching, your wallet address remains the same, but the token balances and transaction history will reflect activity on the new chain. To send tokens on this network, ensure you have the native currency (e.g., FTM on Fantom) to pay for gas fees. You can receive tokens by sharing your wallet address. When interacting with dApps via the in-app browser, the wallet will automatically detect and prompt you to switch networks if needed.

To add tokens from the custom network, tap the '+' icon on the assets screen and enter the token contract address. Confirm the symbol and decimals. The token will then appear in your portfolio if the contract is valid and has a balance.

Security Considerations and Best Practices

Only add networks from trusted sources. Malicious RPC URLs can potentially expose transaction data or lead to phishing attacks. Always verify the RPC endpoints and Chain IDs from official blockchain documentation or reputable providers like Ankr, Chainstack, or the network’s official website. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, and avoid entering it on any website. When using dApps on custom networks, review transaction details carefully before signing. Enable biometric authentication in the wallet settings to add an extra layer of protection. Regularly check that the network is functioning correctly by viewing recent blocks on the block explorer.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the network fails to connect, check the following:

• Ensure the RPC URL uses HTTPS and is accessible in a browser
• Confirm the Chain ID matches the network’s specification
• Verify that the Block Explorer URL is correct and functional
• Restart the app and retry the process

If transactions are stuck, the issue may be with the gas fee or node congestion. Adjust the gas settings when sending if the option is available. In some cases, clearing the app cache may resolve connectivity problems, though this does not affect your funds or keys.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add non-EVM blockchains like Solana or Bitcoin to Coinbase Wallet as a custom network?No, Coinbase Wallet only supports EVM-compatible networks for custom configuration. Blockchains like Solana, Bitcoin, or Cardano use different architectures and cannot be added through the custom network feature. You must use wallets specifically designed for those ecosystems.

What should I do if my custom network disappears after updating the app?Custom networks are stored locally on your device. If they vanish after an update, it may be due to a cache reset or app malfunction. Simply re-add the network using the same parameters. Ensure you have the correct details saved externally in a secure location.

Is it safe to use public RPC endpoints like Ankr or Infura for custom networks?Yes, public RPC providers such as Ankr, Infura, or Cloudflare are generally safe for reading blockchain data. However, they may log IP addresses or experience downtime. For higher privacy or reliability, consider running your own node or using a private RPC service.

Why can’t I see my tokens after switching to the custom network?Tokens are network-specific. If you don’t see a token balance, it may not be deployed on that chain or you haven’t added it manually. Tap the '+' icon on the assets screen, enter the token contract address, and verify it matches the official source for that network.