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| KEY TAKEAWAYS |
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— ENS simplifies Web3 interactions by replacing complex blockchain addresses with human-readable .eth domains. |
| — Built on Ethereum, ENS domains are secure, private, and resistant to censorship. |
| — Domains can link to crypto wallets, IPFS data, or function as tradable NFTs. |
— This guide covers ENS basics, fun facts, and steps to register your own .eth domain. |
Looking to claim your .eth domain? Here’s everything you need to know!
From DNS to ENS: The Evolution of Naming Services
Imagine typing 104.18.24.74 instead of ledger.com to visit a website. Early internet users faced this hassle until Domain Name Service (DNS) emerged, bridging human-friendly names with machine-readable IP addresses.
But DNS, designed for Web2, relies on centralized control—a mismatch for Web3’s decentralized ethos. Enter Ethereum Name Service (ENS), a blockchain-powered alternative.
How ENS Works
ENS transforms unwieldy Web3 identifiers (e.g., 0x3bsfjbk234basf8iwerb…) into simple domains like batman.eth. Key features:
- Decentralized Architecture: Runs on Ethereum, governed by smart contracts—no central authority.
Multi-Purpose Use: Link domains to:
- Crypto wallets for simplified payments.
- IPFS-hosted files (e.g., decentralized websites).
- Subdomains (e.g.,
blog.batman.eth).
- NFT Compatibility:
.ethdomains are ERC-721 tokens, tradable on platforms like OpenSea.
👉 Secure your ENS domain with a Ledger wallet
Why Choose ENS? Fun Facts About .eth Domains
- Censorship-Resistant: Governments can’t block
.ethdomains. - Human-Friendly Payments: Share
yourname.ethinstead of a 42-character wallet address. - Web3 Identity: Use domains for logins, donations, or content hosting.
- Investment Potential: Rare domains (e.g.,
token.eth) appreciate like premium DNS names.
How to Register a .eth Domain in 5 Steps
- Connect Your Wallet: Visit app.ens.domains and link a crypto wallet (e.g., MetaMask).
- Search a Domain: Enter your desired name (e.g.,
cryptoqueen.eth). - Check Availability: If greenlit, proceed to registration.
- Choose Duration: Pay in ETH—fees vary by name length and lease period.
- Confirm Transaction: Approve via your wallet. Voilà—you’re a Web3 domain owner!
👉 Explore ENS domain marketplaces
ENS FAQs
Q: Can I transfer my ENS domain?
A: Yes! Treat it like any NFT—sell or gift it via marketplaces.
Q: How much does registration cost?
A: Prices depend on demand. Short names (3+ characters) start at ~$5/year.
Q: Is ENS only for Ethereum?
A: Primarily, but cross-chain support is expanding.
The Future of Web3 Domains
With 300,000+ ENS domains registered and adoption growing, .eth could become the .com of Web3. As blockchain interoperability improves, expect ENS to anchor decentralized identities across ecosystems.
Knowledge is power.
Dive deeper into Web3 with our School of Block series!
— Authored by Mohammad Musharraf, Web3 content strategist.