What is Base? Coinbase’s Ethereum Layer 2 network
Base is an Ethereum Layer 2 network from Coinbase, not a cryptocurrency. It launched in August 2023 with no separate token and uses ETH for fees.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20262 min readFact-checked
On this page
When a Coinbase app shows Base as a network, it is pointing to a faster lane on Ethereum. Base keeps its own record of activity and posts transaction data and state roots back to Ethereum for final settlement.
How does Base work and differ?
Base rolls up many transactions into one batch and posts that batch to Ethereum, which keeps the final record. Fees are paid in ETH, and Base was built without a native token of its own. One sequencer that Coinbase runs orders transactions.
What is Base used for?
People use Base for onchain activities that would be too costly on Ethereum mainnet.
- DeFi apps for trading, lending, and borrowing
- NFT marketplaces and mints
- Social apps and onchain games
- Coinbase Wallet features, such as sending assets and using apps
Who created Base?
Coinbase created Base and launched it in August 2023. The launch came without a token sale, and the network was not paired with its own cryptocurrency. Coinbase runs the network's core infrastructure.
What are the risks and legal issues?
Base depends on Coinbase to run its core infrastructure, which creates centralization risk. The network has had past outages that stopped activity. In June 2023 the SEC sued Coinbase, adding regulatory attention to the company's crypto products.
Frequently asked questions
Many wallets that support Ethereum and other EVM networks let you add Base manually. Some do not support custom networks, so check first. Coinbase Wallet has Base built in.
Yes. You need a compatible self custody wallet, and a Coinbase exchange account is not required.
Use the official Base Bridge or withdraw from an exchange that supports Base. Check the address and network before you send.
Usually. Base shows a confirmation quickly because it batches transactions, while final settlement on Ethereum can take longer.
