Coinbase Pro
Access Guide • Advanced Trading Steps & Security

Accessing advanced features

Create or use your existing Coinbase account to reach the advanced trading interface. Make sure your account has completed any required identity checks and funding methods are set up. Verifying your account early prevents delays when you want to place an order.

Security first

Protect your account by enabling two-factor authentication and using hardware keys when available. Regularly review your active sessions and revoke any devices you don’t recognize. Keep strong, unique passphrases and consider a reputable password manager to reduce risk.

Understanding the interface

The advanced dashboard presents an order book, candlestick charts, and an order entry panel. Familiarize yourself with market, limit, and stop orders — each serves a different purpose. Market orders execute quickly at the best available price. Limit orders let you specify the price at which you’re willing to buy or sell. Stop orders help you manage downside risk.

Placing your first trade

Start with a small amount to learn how execution works. Choose the trading pair, pick the order type that matches your plan, and set amount and price fields as needed. Review the fee estimate and confirm the trade. Most platforms show a preview before finalizing — use that to verify details.

Managing risk and fees

Advanced trading offers fee tiers and maker/taker distinctions. Track your trading volume over the fee calculation window to understand which tier applies to you. Use position sizing rules and stop levels to limit downside exposure. Avoid overleveraging and treat each trade as part of a broader plan.

Order history & automation

Use the order history and trade reports to audit performance. Many platforms provide downloadable statements for tax reporting or reconciliation. For algorithmic traders, API keys provide programmatic access — create restricted keys, never expose secret keys publicly, and test strategies on small amounts before scaling.

Troubleshooting & final tips

If you encounter errors, check system status pages and support articles for known incidents. Try a different browser or the mobile app if problems persist. Start slow, document decisions, and continuously learn. Use educational resources to deepen technical analysis skills, keep security practices current, and stay patient, review market conditions regularly, and adjust strategies as market structure evolves. Stay adaptable.