Web3 domains represent a revolutionary approach to internet naming systems, built on blockchain technology. Unlike traditional Web2 domains (like .com or .org) that rely on centralized Domain Name System (DNS) servers, Web3 domains operate on decentralized blockchain networks.
Web3 domains are implemented as smart contracts on blockchain networks (primarily Polygon and Base for Unstoppable Domains). This means:
Domain ownership is recorded on the blockchain as an NFT (Non-Fungible Token)
Ownership is verifiable and transferable using blockchain transactions
No renewal fees are required. Once you own the domain, it's yours forever
Domain data is stored immutably on the blockchain
Web3 domains often use the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) for website hosting:
IPFS is a peer-to-peer network for storing and sharing data
Content is addressed by its cryptographic hash rather than location
Websites remain accessible as long as one node hosts the content
Content cannot be modified without changing its address, ensuring integrity
True ownership: Domains are NFTs that you fully own, unlike Web2 domains which you effectively rent
No renewal fees: One-time purchase for permanent ownership
Self-custody: You control your domain through your crypto wallet
Direct transfer: Can be sold or transferred without intermediaries
Simplified crypto payments: Use human-readable names instead of long crypto addresses
Cross-chain compatibility: One domain works across multiple blockchain networks
Enhanced security: Blockchain-based verification prevents domain hijacking
Smart contract integration: Domains can interact with blockchain applications
Reverse resolution: Link crypto addresses back to domain names
Decentralized websites: Host content through IPFS
Multi-purpose utility: Use as username, payment address, and website domain
Built-in integration with Web3 wallets and applications
Simplified crypto payments: Use "yourname.crypto" instead of "0x123..."
Universal address: One domain can hold multiple cryptocurrency addresses
Standardized format: Reduces errors in sending crypto payments
Web3 username: Use your domain across decentralized applications
Profile management: Store and manage profile information
Authentication: Login to Web3 services using your domain
Decentralized hosting: Upload website content to IPFS
Content persistence: Website remains accessible through IPFS network
No traditional hosting costs: Pay once for domain and IPFS pinning (for sites under 20mb)
Native support in Brave Browser
Browser extensions available for Chrome and Firefox
Resolution through UDR.app on all browsers
20mb limit when uploading a site through Unstoppable Domains. Larger sites require a paid pinnng service
IPFS cannot process server-side languages like PHP or talk to a database like MySQL
Web3 domains represent a significant evolution in how we think about digital identity and ownership on the internet. Through blockchain technology and IPFS, they offer enhanced security, permanent ownership, and innovative features that go beyond traditional domain names. As the Web3 ecosystem continues to grow, these domains will play an increasingly important role in our digital interactions.