Web3 Domain Identity FAQ

faq / web3-domain-identity

Web3 Domain Identity FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Web3 domain identity systems, ENS, Unstoppable Domains, and decentralized naming.

Web3 Domain Identity FAQ

This FAQ addresses common questions about Web3 domain identity systems. For comprehensive coverage, see the Web3 Domain Identity research.

ENS and Decentralized Naming

What is ENS?

The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) is a distributed naming system on the Ethereum blockchain that maps human-readable names (e.g., example.eth) to machine-readable identifiers such as Ethereum addresses, content hashes, and other metadata.

How does ENS differ from traditional DNS?

ENS operates entirely on-chain through Ethereum smart contracts, while DNS relies on a hierarchical server infrastructure governed by ICANN. ENS domains are NFTs that can be traded, while DNS domains are licensed through registrars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Web3 domains part of the traditional DNS?

No. ENS domains (.eth) and Unstoppable Domains (.crypto, .nft, etc.) operate on separate blockchain-based systems. They do not resolve through the traditional DNS hierarchy and are not governed by ICANN.

Can I use a Web3 domain for a traditional website?

Web3 domains require compatible resolvers or browser extensions to resolve. They do not work natively with standard DNS infrastructure. Some services offer DNS gateway bridges for limited compatibility.

Web3 Domain Institute Editorial Team

The editorial team maintains pages through a research-content workflow, checking definitions, risk boundaries, internal link structure, source references, and update timestamps. Reviewer: Domain Infrastructure Research Desk.