Web3 and Blockchain Domains 101: A Beginner's Guide

The internet is evolving, and Web3 technology is at the forefront of this transformation. Unlike traditional Web2, where large corporations control user data and online identities, Web3 is built on decentralized networks like blockchain. This shift empowers users with greater ownership over their data, digital assets, and online presence.

A key component of this new digital landscape is the rise of onchain domains, also known as Web3 domains, blockchain domains, and NFT domains. These domains function differently from traditional DNS-based domains, offering new capabilities tailored for the Web3 ecosystem.

Before diving into Web3 domains, it's essential to understand what Web3 is and how it differs from previous versions of the internet.

• Web1 (1990s – Early 2000s) – The static, read-only web, where websites were basic and interactive features were minimal.
• Web2 (Mid-2000s – Present) – The era of user-generated content and social media, but heavily controlled by corporations like Google, Facebook, and Twitter.
• Web3 (Now & Future) – A decentralized internet where users control their own data, identities, and assets through blockchain technology.

Unlike Web2, which relies on centralized servers, Web3 uses blockchain networks to enable peer-to-peer transactions, decentralized applications (dApps), and enhanced security. This is where Web3 domains come into play, providing a human-readable way to navigate the decentralized web.

A Web3 domain is a blockchain-based domain name that serves as a human-readable identifier for digital wallets, websites, and decentralized applications. Unlike traditional domains, which rely on centralized registrars, Web3 domains are stored onchain, meaning users have full control over them without renewal fees.

• True Ownership – Once purchased, Web3 domains belong to the user forever, with no renewal costs.
• Crypto Payments – Domains can replace long wallet addresses, simplifying transactions with over 300 cryptocurrencies.
• Web3 Login – Use your domain to log in to dApps and Web3 platforms without relying on third parties.
• Decentralized Websites – Host content on decentralized storage networks like IPFS or Arweave.
• Messaging & Identity – Domains can be used for encrypted messaging and serve as a unique onchain identity.

Web3 domains are more than just website addresses; they act as a versatile digital identity in the blockchain space. Here are the most common use cases:

• Cryptocurrency Transactions – Send and receive crypto using a simple name instead of a complex wallet address.
• Web3 Profiles & Identity – Connect your domain to a UD.me profile, showcasing NFTs, social links, and achievements.
• Login Credentials – Use Web3 domains to sign in to hundreds of onchain apps and decentralized platforms.
• Decentralized Websites – Build censorship-resistant sites hosted on IPFS.
• Unstoppable Messaging & Group Chat – Secure, end-to-end encrypted communication using your domain.

One of the most common questions is, what’s the difference between a Web3 domain and a DNS domain? While both serve as website addresses, they function in fundamentally different ways:

Both Web3 and DNS domains on Unstoppable have full onchain functionality once tokenized, but DNS domains also retain traditional web usability for standard website hosting and email.

There are many top Web3 domain TLDs to choose from, each catering to different use cases. Some of the most popular include:

• .crypto – One of the most recognized Web3 domain extensions.
• .x – A highly versatile and premium TLD for Web3 users.
• .nft – Perfect for NFT collectors and Web3 creators.
• .polygon – Designed for users in the Polygon ecosystem.
• .pudgy – Tailored for members of the Pudgy Penguins community.
• .rad – Created for Web3 media and streaming platforms.
• .secret – A privacy-focused TLD for blockchain users.
• .ltc – Built for the Litecoin community.
• .austin – A city-based Web3 domain TLD for Austin, Texas.

Choosing the right TLD depends on your personal brand, community, or intended use case within the Web3 ecosystem.

If you’re ready to secure your own Web3 domain, here’s how to get started:

1. Search for a Domain – Visit Unstoppable Domains and find an available name under your preferred TLD.
2. Register Your Domain – Complete the purchase with a one-time payment (no renewal fees for Web3-native domains).
3. Mint It Onchain – Your domain is stored on Polygon or Base, ensuring full Web3 functionality.
4. Customize Your Domain – Link it to a crypto wallet, UD.me profile, or decentralized website.
5. Use It Across Web3 – Log in to dApps, send crypto, and explore the full potential of your onchain identity.

Web3 domains are revolutionizing online identity, payments, and ownership in the blockchain space. Whether you’re looking for cryptocurrency domains, decentralized website hosting, or a secure Web3 login, these domains offer powerful tools for the future of the internet.

With a growing selection of onchain domains and tokenized DNS domains, Unstoppable Domains makes it easy to own your name, control your data, and build your presence in Web3. Ready to get started? Search for your Web3 domain today!