Master blockchain domains, NFT ownership, decentralized identity, cryptocurrency wallets, and the future of digital presence in the metaverse era
Blockchain Basics
Crypto Wallets
NFT Domains
Metaverse
Digital Identity
AR Integration
Future Trends
Security
Everything you need to know about Web3 domains, organized for easy navigation
What they are, how they work, and why they matter
Complete guide to TLDs and choosing the right one
Step-by-step guide to registration and setup
Your identity in the decentralized future
Domains in virtual worlds and AR experiences
Trends, predictions, and what's coming next
Start your journey with a premium blockchain TLD today
Web3 domains represent a fundamental shift in how we think about digital identity, ownership, and online presence. Unlike traditional domains, they're stored on blockchain networks, giving you true ownership and control.
Web3 domains are blockchain-based domain names that function as your decentralized identity across the internet. Instead of being controlled by centralized registrars like traditional .com domains, Web3 domains are stored as NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) on blockchain networks such as Ethereum, Polygon, or Binance Smart Chain.
When you purchase a Web3 domain, you receive a unique digital asset that you truly own—no renewal fees, no risk of seizure, and complete control over how it's used. These domains serve multiple purposes: they can simplify cryptocurrency transactions, host decentralized websites, represent your digital identity, and even function as your username across Web3 applications.
You own the domain as an NFT in your wallet. No intermediary can take it away or censor it.
Pay once, own forever. Unlike traditional domains that require annual renewal payments.
Replace long wallet addresses with readable names like "alice.pulse" or "shop.liveshop" for receiving payments.
Host censorship-resistant websites on IPFS or other decentralized storage networks.
Web3 domains leverage smart contracts—self-executing code on blockchain networks—to manage registration, ownership, and resolution. When you register a domain like "creator.pulse", a smart contract mints an NFT that represents ownership and stores the domain data on the blockchain.
Check if your desired domain name is available on Freename's platform - our trusted partner for premium Web3 TLDs
Link your cryptocurrency wallet (MetaMask, Coinbase Wallet, etc.) to interact with the registration platform
Pay the registration fee (plus gas fees) and the smart contract mints your domain NFT to your wallet address
Your domain is now stored in your wallet as an NFT. You can configure it, sell it, or transfer it as you wish
The blockchain acts as a decentralized registry, replacing traditional DNS servers. When someone wants to resolve your Web3 domain (e.g., send crypto to creator.pulse), their wallet or browser queries the blockchain smart contract, which returns the associated wallet address or IPFS content hash.
| Feature | Web3 Domains | Traditional Domains |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Model | True ownership (NFT) | Leased from registrar |
| Renewal Fees | One-time payment | Annual renewal required |
| Censorship Resistance | Cannot be seized | Can be seized/suspended |
| Payment Integration | Native crypto payments | Requires payment gateway |
| Privacy | No personal info required | WHOIS data (or paid privacy) |
| Browser Support | Growing (requires extension) | Universal support |
| Transferability | Instant peer-to-peer | Complex transfer process |
Replace complex wallet addresses with memorable names. Send and receive crypto payments using yourname.pulse instead of 0x742d35Cc6...
One domain serves as your username across hundreds of Web3 apps, NFT marketplaces, DAOs, and metaverse platforms.
Host content on IPFS that can't be taken down by governments or corporations. True freedom of expression.
Premium Web3 domains have sold for millions. Early adopters in 2026 may see significant returns as adoption grows.
No risk of domain hijacking or social engineering attacks. Your private key is the only way to access and control your domain.
Position yourself at the forefront of Web3 adoption. Major brands and institutions are already embracing this technology.
Continue reading to learn about popular Web3 domain extensions and how to choose the perfect one for your needs.
Next: Popular Web3 ExtensionsNot all Web3 domains are created equal. Each extension has unique features, blockchain infrastructure, and use cases. Here's everything you need to know to choose the right one.
Premium blockchain TLDs with true ownership - Pay once, own forever
Official Partnership: GotTLDs is proud to partner with Freename to bring you premium Web3 domain extensions
Perfect for live commerce, streaming sales, and real-time transactions
Ideal for digital identity, payments, secure storage, and vaults
Live auctions, NFT drops, racing culture, and speed enthusiasts
Adventure sports, off-road culture, and community living spaces
One-time payment with lifetime ownership. No annual renewals. True NFT ownership with complete control.
Visit GotTLDs.com to mint your domain on these exclusive extensions - backed by Freename's enterprise blockchain infrastructure.
Explore our full portfolio of blockchain domain extensions powered by Freename
Browse All TLDsAlternative option - Requires annual renewals
Perfect for receiving payments across multiple cryptocurrencies
Essential for interacting with DeFi protocols and DAOs
Extensive documentation and developer tools available
3-character: $640/year • 4-character: $160/year • 5+ characters: $5/year
Note: Gas fees apply (typically $10-50 depending on network congestion)
Decentralized root zone alternative to ICANN. Create your own TLD.
BNB Chain's native naming service for the Binance ecosystem.
Energy-efficient naming service on the Tezos blockchain.
High-speed domains on the Solana blockchain with minimal fees.
Naming service for the Polkadot and Kusama ecosystems.
GotTLDs powered by Freename offers the best value with one-time payment, lifetime ownership, and zero renewal fees. Perfect for individuals and businesses who want true ownership without recurring costs. Industry-specific TLDs like .pulse, .liveshop, and .bidlive provide instant credibility in your niche.
Next, learn the step-by-step process for buying and registering your Web3 domain.
Next: Buying Your First DomainReady to claim your Web3 identity? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of purchasing your first blockchain domain, from wallet setup to successful registration.
MetaMask, Coinbase Wallet, or similar Web3 wallet
ETH, MATIC, or other crypto depending on platform
Secure password and backup recovery phrase
List of desired names (have backups ready)
Follow these steps to successfully register your Web3 domain
Your crypto wallet is your gateway to Web3. It stores your domain NFTs and allows you to interact with blockchain applications. Here's how to get started:
Popular options for 2026:
Follow the wallet's setup wizard. You'll receive a 12-24 word recovery phrase. Write this down on paper and store it securely offline. Never share it with anyone—it's the only way to recover your wallet if you lose access.
Purchase crypto through the wallet's built-in buy feature, or transfer from an exchange like Coinbase or Binance. For .eth domains, you'll need ETH. For Freename/GotTLDs domains, you'll need MATIC (Polygon) or other supported cryptocurrencies.
Never share your recovery phrase or private key. Legitimate services will NEVER ask for this. Phishing scams are common—always verify URLs carefully.
Navigate to your chosen Web3 domain platform and search for available names:
app.ens.domains
For .eth domains
freename.io
For .pulse, .cardhub, .liveshop, .bidlive, and more
Once you've found an available domain, you'll need to connect your wallet to proceed with the purchase:
Always verify the website URL before connecting your wallet. Bookmark the official sites to avoid phishing scams. ENS uses app.ens.domains, not .com or other variations.
Now comes the exciting part—actually purchasing your domain! The process varies slightly by platform:
Click "Request to Register" and confirm the transaction in your wallet. This prevents front-running attacks. Cost: ~$10-30 in gas fees.
The platform will display a timer. This delay is a security measure to prevent domain sniping.
Click "Register" when the timer ends. Pay the registration fee ($5/year for 5+ characters) plus gas fees. Choose your registration period (1-10 years recommended).
Simpler process—just one transaction:
Click "Add to Cart" → "Checkout" → Confirm the transaction in your wallet. The domain is minted directly to your wallet address. One-time payment, no renewals required.
Typical cost: $10-40 for the domain + minimal gas fees on Polygon (~$0.01-0.10)
Note: Gas fees vary based on network congestion. Register during off-peak hours for lower fees.
Congratulations! Once the blockchain transaction is confirmed, you officially own your Web3 domain NFT. Here's what happens next:
The domain NFT is now stored in your wallet. You can view it in your wallet's NFT section or on OpenSea/other NFT marketplaces.
Set your primary address, add cryptocurrency addresses, link social profiles, and configure other records.
Share your domain for crypto payments, use it as your Web3 identity across dApps, or host a decentralized website.
Add your Web3 domain to your social media profiles, email signatures, and anywhere you share your crypto address.
Learn how to configure your domain, add wallet addresses, and start using it across the Web3 ecosystem.
Next: Technical Setup & IntegrationYour domain is registered—now it's time to unlock its full potential. Learn how to configure wallet addresses, create subdomains, host decentralized websites, and integrate your domain across the Web3 ecosystem.
Essential settings to make your domain functional
The most common use case for Web3 domains is simplifying crypto payments. Instead of sharing long wallet addresses, people can send crypto to yourname.pulse. Here's how to set it up:
Go to your registrar's website (ENS app, Freename dashboard) and connect your wallet. Navigate to your domain's settings page.
Find the "Records" or "Addresses" section. Click "Add Record" and select the cryptocurrency type (ETH, BTC, DOGE, etc.). Paste your wallet address for that crypto.
Choose your main Ethereum address as the "primary" record. This is the address that receives payments by default.
Click "Save" and approve the blockchain transaction in your wallet. Changes take effect within minutes.
Add your Bitcoin wallet address to receive BTC payments to your domain.
Your primary address—used for ETH and ERC-20 tokens like USDC, DAI.
Support 100+ cryptocurrencies: LTC, DOGE, SOL, ADA, DOT, and more.
Make your domain a comprehensive digital identity by linking your social profiles, website, email, and more:
Connect your Twitter, GitHub, Discord, Telegram, and other profiles.
Link to your traditional website, blog, or portfolio.
Set a profile picture and cover image for your domain.
Reverse resolution makes your domain appear in apps and wallets instead of your wallet address. When you send transactions or interact with dApps, people see "alice.pulse" instead of "0x742d35..."
How to enable:
Subdomains extend your main domain's functionality. Create payments.shop.liveshop for business transactions, nft.creator.pulse for your NFT collection, or give subdomains to team members or community.
payments.company.pulse, invoices.company.pulse, sales.company.pulse
john.company.pulse, sarah.company.pulse, dev.company.pulse
nft.yourname.pulse, dao.yourname.pulse, store.yourname.liveshop
Give subdomains to supporters, family members, or community contributors
Navigate to your domain's "Subdomains" section in the dashboard
Enter the subdomain name (e.g., "payments" for payments.shop.liveshop)
Assign to your address or transfer to someone else's wallet
Add crypto addresses, content hashes, or other records to the subdomain
ENS Pro Tip: Subdomains are free to create (just pay gas fees). You can create unlimited subdomains under your main domain.
Point your domain to IPFS for censorship-resistant hosting
One of Web3 domains' most powerful features is hosting websites on IPFS (InterPlanetary File System)—a decentralized storage network. Your content can't be taken down or censored because it's distributed across thousands of nodes worldwide.
Upload your HTML, CSS, JavaScript files to your chosen
IPFS service. You'll receive an IPFS hash (CID) like:
Qm...abc123
In your domain settings, find "Content Hash" record.
Paste your IPFS hash with the
ipfs://
prefix
Visit your site using a Web3 browser (Brave, Opera) or
IPFS gateway:
yourname.pulse.limo
or
yourname.pulse.link
Native Web3 domain resolution is supported in:
Share yourname.pulse instead of wallet addresses. Works in:
Use as your username/login across Web3:
Add to professional communications:
Display in social profiles:
Discover creative and practical ways to use your Web3 domain across different industries and applications.
Next: Use Cases & ApplicationsFrom personal branding to enterprise adoption, Web3 domains are being used in innovative ways across every industry. Explore how individuals, businesses, and organizations are leveraging blockchain domains in 2026.
How individuals are using Web3 domains for identity and payments
Replace multiple usernames across platforms with one unified Web3 identity. Use yourname.pulse as your handle on Twitter, Discord, Farcaster, Lens Protocol, and hundreds of other Web3 apps.
Real Example:
@vitalik.pulse - Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin uses his ENS domain across all platforms, making him instantly recognizable in the Web3 community.
Accept crypto payments without sharing complex wallet addresses. Perfect for freelancers, content creators, and anyone receiving cryptocurrency payments regularly.
Use Case:
Content creators add "Tip me: creator.pulse" to YouTube descriptions, Twitter bios, and Twitch streams for easy crypto tips in ETH, USDC, or other tokens.
Keep your wallet addresses private while still accepting payments. Update addresses without notifying everyone who has your domain.
Security Benefit:
If your wallet is compromised, update your ENS records to point to a new address instantly, without changing your public identity.
Showcase your NFT collection with a branded domain. Create subdomains for different collections or use your domain as your gallery identity.
Example Setup:
collector.pulse (main identity)
• art.collector.pulse → Fine art NFTs
•
pfp.collector.pulse → Profile picture collection
•
music.collector.pulse → Music NFTs
Host your portfolio, blog, or personal site on IPFS using your Web3 domain. Censorship-resistant and truly yours.
Perfect For:
Developers, designers, writers, and creatives who want a decentralized portfolio that can't be taken down or censored.
Register family name domains and give subdomains to family members. Perfect for gifting and creating a family Web3 identity.
Family Example:
smithfamily.pulse with subdomains:
• john.smithfamily.pulse
• sarah.smithfamily.pulse
•
kids.smithfamily.pulse
How companies are integrating Web3 domains into operations
Major brands are securing their Web3 presence by registering .pulse, .liveshop, and .cardhub versions of their names. This prevents domain squatting and positions them for Web3 expansion.
Banks and fintech companies using Web3 domains for crypto payment acceptance and blockchain research initiatives.
Retailers accepting crypto payments via brandname.liveshop, making checkout simpler and protecting brand identity.
Businesses use Web3 domains to simplify B2B crypto payments, invoicing, and treasury management. No more copying/pasting long addresses.
Implementation Example:
• invoices.company.pulse → Accounts receivable wallet
• payroll.company.pulse → Employee payment wallet
• treasury.company.cardhub → Main treasury multisig
• suppliers.company.pulse → Vendor payments
Give employees professional Web3 identities with subdomains. Enhances company culture and makes crypto operations seamless.
Team Structure:
• alice.company.pulse → CEO's professional identity
• dev.company.pulse → Development team wallet
• marketing.company.pulse → Marketing department
• support.company.pulse → Customer support team
Each subdomain can receive payments independently and represent their function
Companies building Web3 products use domains as access points, login systems, and payment gateways for their dApps and services.
Gaming
Player IDs and in-game assets
Education
Student credentials on blockchain
Healthcare
Secure medical record access
Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) are using Web3 domains for governance, treasury management, and community identity:
DAOs use domains for voting systems and proposals. Members can verify official DAO communications.
Example: governance.community.pulse for official proposals
Transparent treasury wallets with readable addresses. Community members know exactly where to send funds.
Example: treasury.community.cardhub linked to multisig wallet
Issue subdomains to active contributors and core team members as verifiable credentials.
Example: alice.community.liveshop for verified DAO members
Example DAO: "BuilderCommunity.pulse" - A developer community DAO
• buildercommunity.pulse → Main DAO identity and treasury
• grants.buildercommunity.pulse → Grant program funding wallet
• events.buildercommunity.pulse → Event sponsorship payments
• members.buildercommunity.pulse → Member directory and credentials
• vote.buildercommunity.pulse → Snapshot governance space
Platforms like Lens Protocol and Farcaster use Web3 domains as portable social identities. Your followers and content travel with you.
Benefit: No platform can ban or delete your account. You own your social graph.
Musicians host albums on IPFS with artist.pulse domains. Fans access music directly without intermediaries or platform fees.
Revenue: 100% to artist. Accept crypto tips at artist.pulse.
Property tokens and fractional ownership represented by Web3 domains. 123mainstreet.coliving could represent an actual building, or invest.cardhub for fractional ownership platforms.
Future: Transfer property ownership via domain transfer using .coliving or .cardhub TLDs.
Law firms and legal professionals use Web3 domains for smart contract execution and verifiable document signing.
Use: Sign documents with lawfirm.eth for authenticity.
Universities issue verifiable diplomas and certificates as NFTs linked to student.university.eth domains.
Verification: Employers verify credentials on blockchain instantly.
Use the same domain across Decentraland, The Sandbox, VRChat, and other virtual worlds as your universal metaverse identity.
Integration: One identity across all virtual worlds.
Apps & Wallets Supporting ENS
Registered .pulse Domains
Fortune 500 Companies with Web3 Domains
Total Secondary Market Sales Volume
Web3 domain adoption is growing 150% year-over-year as mainstream adoption accelerates
Discover the future outlook, investment opportunities, and predictions for Web3 domains from 2026 to 2031.
Next: Future Outlook 2026-2031Where is the Web3 domain space heading? Explore predictions, emerging trends, investment considerations, and how blockchain domains will reshape digital identity over the next five years.
Mainstream Awareness: Web3 domains are no longer niche. Major media coverage and celebrity adoption have brought awareness to millions.
Wallet Integration: Nearly every major crypto wallet (MetaMask, Coinbase, Trust, etc.) natively supports ENS and Freename domains.
Browser Support: Brave and Opera offer native resolution. Chrome/Firefox support via extensions or gateways.
Enterprise Adoption: 500+ Fortune 500 companies have registered defensive Web3 domains to protect their brands.
Universal Resolution: Traditional browsers still require plugins or gateways for most Web3 domains.
Gas Fees: Ethereum mainnet transactions can be expensive during network congestion.
User Experience: Still too complex for non-technical users. Wallet setup and key management remain barriers.
Regulatory Uncertainty: Governments are still determining how to regulate blockchain-based naming systems.
Major shifts expected in the next 2 years
Chrome, Safari, and Firefox begin native support for .eth and other Web3 domains. No extensions needed.
Impact: 10x increase in usage as mainstream users can access Web3 sites directly
Most Web3 domain transactions move to Layer 2 solutions (Optimism, Arbitrum), reducing costs by 95%.
Impact: Registration costs drop to $1-5 total, making domains accessible to everyone
Fortune 1000 companies routinely issue Web3 domains to employees. "alice.cardhub" becomes standard business practice for payments and identity.
Impact: Web3 domains become as common as corporate email addresses. Companies use .cardhub for payments, .pulse for real-time communications.
iOS and Android add native Web3 identity to operating systems. Your .pulse or .cardhub domain becomes part of your phone's identity layer.
Impact: Seamless Web3 login on mobile apps, no more passwords or complex wallet addresses needed
The fully realized Web3 identity ecosystem
Web3 domains become the de facto standard for online identity. Your .pulse domain is recognized by governments, banks, social platforms, and every online service. Traditional login systems are considered legacy technology.
Government
Digital ID verification via Web3 domains
Banking
Open accounts with yourname.pulse
Healthcare
Medical records tied to domains
One domain works seamlessly across all blockchains. Your alice.pulse or shop.liveshop resolves to your Ethereum, Bitcoin, Solana, Polkadot, and any other blockchain address automatically. True multi-chain identity.
Example with GotTLDs:
All work natively without manual configuration—powered by Freename's multi-chain infrastructure
AI assistants manage your Web3 domain automatically. They optimize records, update addresses, suggest subdomains, and even handle domain portfolios. Smart contracts autonomously manage domain expiry and renewals.
Your Web3 domain is your avatar name, property deed, and social identity across thousands of virtual worlds. Digital real estate, virtual goods, and metaverse assets are all tied to your domain NFT.
This section is educational only and not financial advice. Web3 domains are speculative assets with significant risk. Only invest what you can afford to lose. Do your own research.
Short, memorable domains (3-4 characters) are extremely limited. Only 10,000 3-character .eth domains exist.
As more apps integrate Web3 domains, existing domains become more valuable. Early adopters benefit most.
Premium domains (dictionary words, common names) could appreciate similar to traditional .com domains over decades.
More use cases = more demand. Domains that enable payments, identity, and Web3 access become more valuable.
Multiple naming systems exist. If one becomes dominant, others may lose value. ENS currently leads but competition remains.
Governments could regulate or restrict blockchain domains, impacting value and utility.
New technology could make current Web3 domains obsolete. Innovation moves fast in crypto.
Current prices may be inflated by speculation. Value could decrease if hype fades before real utility materializes.
paradigm.eth
$1.5M
2021
000.eth
$300K
2022
nike.crypto
$100K
2021
beer.eth
$38K
2022
Note: Past sales don't guarantee future value. Market conditions change rapidly.
AI assistants that autonomously manage, trade, and optimize domain portfolios based on market trends and utility predictions.
Your Web3 domain stores your entire social network on-chain. Take your followers anywhere—no platform can lock you in.
Universities and certifiers issue verifiable credentials as NFTs tied to your domain. One-click employment verification.
Use domains as collateral for loans. Fractionalize valuable domains. Trade domain futures and derivatives.
Your domain becomes your gamer tag across all Web3 games. Achievements, items, and reputation all tied to one identity.
Email, messaging, and video calls routed through Web3 domains. No more centralized communication platforms.
Web3 domains represent more than just blockchain addresses—they're the foundation of a new internet where you truly own your digital identity, data, and online presence.
The best domain names are being claimed now. 2026 is still early in Web3 adoption.
Millions are joining the Web3 revolution. Be part of reshaping the internet's future.
No corporation or government can take away what you truly own on the blockchain.
Ready to Secure Your Web3 Identity?
The domains you register today could become your most valuable digital assets tomorrow.
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