How to change the default network on Coinbase Wallet?

Understanding Network Selection in Coinbase Wallet

1. Coinbase Wallet supports multiple blockchain networks, allowing users to interact with various decentralized applications and tokens. Each network operates independently, hosting its own set of assets and smart contracts.

2. The default network is typically set to Ethereum Mainnet upon initial setup. This is because Ethereum hosts the largest number of ERC-20 tokens and widely used dApps.

3. Users may need to switch networks when dealing with tokens from other ecosystems such as Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, or Arbitrum. Transactions cannot be executed on the wrong network, so accurate selection is critical.

4. Switching networks does not affect private keys or wallet address. The same wallet can interact across chains, though asset balances are specific to each network.

5. Gas fees vary significantly between networks. Ethereum often has higher fees compared to Layer 2 solutions like Optimism or sidechains like Polygon, making network choice both a functional and economic decision.

Steps to Change the Default Network

1. Open the Coinbase Wallet app and navigate to the home screen where your asset list appears. Tap on the network indicator located at the top of the screen, usually showing 'Ethereum' or another active chain.

2. A dropdown menu will appear listing available networks. These include Ethereum, Polygon, BNB Smart Chain, Arbitrum, Optimism, and others supported by the wallet.

3. Scroll through the list and tap on the desired network. Once selected, the interface will refresh to display assets and dApps relevant to that chain.

4. After switching, confirm the change by checking the network name at the top and attempting a small transaction or balance check on a dApp within the new network.

5. To avoid errors, always verify the network before sending funds. Sending assets to the correct address on the wrong chain can result in permanent loss.

Managing Custom Networks and Security Considerations

1. Advanced users can add custom RPC networks manually. This option allows connection to less common blockchains not listed by default in the wallet’s network selector.

2. When adding a custom network, input the correct RPC URL, chain ID, currency symbol, and block explorer URL. Incorrect details may lead to failed transactions or exposure to phishing sites.

3. Coinbase Wallet does not support cross-chain swaps natively. Users must use trusted bridges or centralized exchanges to move assets between networks, always verifying contract addresses beforehand.

4. Some dApps automatically prompt network changes when accessed through the built-in browser. Granting permission for this action is safe only if the website is verified and legitimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which network a token belongs to?Check the token contract on a blockchain explorer like Etherscan or Polygonscan. The domain of the explorer indicates the network—etherscan.io for Ethereum, polygonscan.com for Polygon, etc.

Can I lose funds by selecting the wrong network?Yes. If you send tokens to a valid address but on the wrong network, the transaction may succeed on that chain but the recipient won’t receive the intended asset. Recovery requires manual intervention and is not guaranteed.

Why doesn’t my token appear after switching networks?Tokens are network-specific. Ensure you’re on the correct chain where the token exists. You may need to manually add the token contract if it’s not auto-detected by the wallet.

Does changing networks cost gas?No. Simply switching the network view in the wallet interface does not incur any fees. Fees apply only when broadcasting transactions on a blockchain.