The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) has taken a major step towards bridging the gap between the traditional web (Web2) and the decentralized web (Web3) with the integration of “.box” domains. Announced on April 24, 2024, this new feature allows users to create human-readable names that function similarly to conventional internet addresses.
Introducing Browser-Friendly Domain Names
Previously, ENS primarily focused on “.eth” names, offering a simpler alternative to long Ethereum wallet addresses. While “.eth” names are widely used within the Web3 community, they haven’t been directly accessible on traditional web browsers.
“.box” domains, on the other hand, are ICANN-approved top-level domains that can be registered through the ENS manager app. Unlike “.eth” names, “.box” domains integrate seamlessly with popular web browsers like Chrome and Safari. This allows users to access websites and potentially even use web2 services like email with their “.box” domain names.
NFT-Based Ownership and Web3 Integration
Upon registration, “.box” domains are tokenized as NFTs on the Ethereum Layer 2 OP Mainnet. This not only signifies ownership of the domain but also paves the way for future functionalities within the Web3 ecosystem.
A Streamlined Entry Point to Web3
“‘.box’ offers a streamlined entrance into Web3 through its on-chain TLD,” said Nick Johnson, lead developer and founder of ENS. “ENS welcomes this integration and the user experience it brings as an additional, hassle-free option to register your digital identity.”
Looking Ahead: A Unified Digital Identity
The ability to use both “.box” and “.eth” names concurrently opens doors for a more unified digital identity. Additionally, ENS’s recent collaboration with domain registrar GoDaddy further highlights the push to connect Web2 domains with ENS names.
“ENS stands as the preeminent naming protocol in the web3 ecosystem,” said Josh Brandley, founder of .box domains. “Looking ahead, we believe the appetite for web3 usernames will vastly surpass the current demand for traditional web domains.”
(Source: The Block)