How to Buy on Chainfiles
A simple guide for buyers to purchase digital files securely using a crypto wallet and USDC.
How to Buy on Chainfiles
Buying a file on Chainfiles is fast and secure. There are no accounts, no checkout forms, and no middlemen — just a one-click purchase using your crypto wallet.
You pay in USDC, a digital dollar always equal in value to USD. Your file unlocks instantly once the payment is complete.
1. Set Up a Wallet (or Use Yours)
You’ll need a crypto wallet to make a purchase. Coinbase Wallet is the easiest option for most people, but any Base-compatible wallet works — including MetaMask, Rainbow, and others.
- Learn more: Getting Started with Coinbase Wallet (Mobile)
When you install Coinbase Wallet:
- Open the app and follow the prompts to create or import a wallet.
- Make sure the Base network is selected.
- You’re ready to make your first purchase on Chainfiles.
💡 Already have a wallet? Just make sure it supports the Base network and has some USDC for your purchase.
2. Add USDC to Your Wallet
USDC is the digital version of the US dollar (1 USDC = 1 USD). You’ll use it to buy files on Chainfiles.
Options:
- From Coinbase Exchange: Buy USDC and send it to your wallet.
- From a friend or another wallet: Receive USDC directly to your address.
- Bridge to Base: If you already have USDC on another network, you can bridge it to Base using Base Bridge.
💡 Once you have USDC in your wallet, you can use it for any Chainfiles purchase — no sign-ups or payment cards needed.
3. Buy a File
-
Open a seller’s Chainfiles page. You’ll see a simple checkout screen showing the product title, description, price, and the seller’s wallet address for transparency.
-
Click “Purchase & Download.” A secure payment window will appear.
-
Connect your wallet. If you’re not already connected, choose your wallet (Coinbase Wallet, MetaMask, or any Base-compatible wallet) and approve the connection.
-
Click “Pay Now.” Your wallet will show a signature request — this simply authorizes the transfer of USDC for the purchase. Confirm the request.
-
Wait a few seconds for payment to confirm. Once complete, you’ll automatically see a Payment Successful page.
4. After Payment
When your payment is confirmed:
- The file unlocks instantly for download.
- Click the download button or Download [filename] link to save it.
- The download link remains active for 24 hours — you can download multiple times within that window.
- If you want to return later, click “Bookmark this page” and then bookmark in your browser to save your access link.
- The seller receives your payment instantly in USDC.
5. Stay Safe
To keep your purchases safe and secure:
- Only buy from creators you trust.
- Always double-check the link — it should be on the
chainfiles.appdomain. - Never share your wallet recovery phrase with anyone.
- If using Coinbase Wallet, read How to stay safe with your wallet.
✨ You’re all set. Open a Chainfiles link, pay in USDC with your wallet, and your download is ready within seconds.