Bitcoin Name Service (BNS) offers a decentralized solution on the Bitcoin blockchain, providing Web3 users with human-readable .btc domain names linked to their wallets, enhancing usability and accessibility in the Bitcoin Web3 ecosystem.
Understanding Bitcoin Name Service (BNS)
Bitcoin Name Service functions as a decentralized naming database secured on the Bitcoin blockchain. It operates similarly to the traditional Domain Name System (DNS) of Web2, but with a decentralized, peer-to-peer architecture that ensures security and censorship resistance.
BNS names are:
- Universally Unique: Each name is distinct and registered on the Bitcoin blockchain.
- Human-Meaningful: Users can easily identify and remember .btc domain names.
- Strongly Owned: Ownership is securely documented on the Bitcoin blockchain using Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs).
How .BTC Domains Work
.BTC domains are a type of blockchain name registered on the Bitcoin network as non-fungible tokens (NFTs). These domains utilize the Bitcoin network’s security features and are managed through smart contracts on the Stacks blockchain using the Clarity smart contracting language.
Domains on BNS are organized into a hierarchical structure:
- Namespaces: Similar to DNS top-level domains, namespaces are created by anyone but not owned.
- BNS Names: These are directly recorded on the blockchain and require an existing namespace.
- BNS Subdomains: Owned by separate private keys and stored off-chain.
Purchasing a .BTC Domain
To acquire a .btc domain:
- Prepare Your Wallet: Use a wallet compatible with .btc domains, such as Hiro Wallet or Xverse, and ensure it has STX (Stacks tokens).
- Visit BNS Website: Navigate to https://btc.us/ and search for your desired .btc domain name to check availability and pricing in STX.
- Create an Account: Connect your Stacks-compatible wallet to the site to create an account and proceed with the purchase.
- Complete Purchase: Once logged in, follow prompts to confirm and purchase the domain. Transfer 2 STX to complete the transaction, which includes a small gas fee. Your ownership of the .btc domain will be recorded on the blockchain.
Secondary Market Options
Alternatively, you can explore secondary marketplaces to purchase pre-owned Bitcoin domains.
FAQ
What is Bitcoin Name Service (BNS)? Bitcoin Name Service is a decentralized naming system on the Bitcoin blockchain, providing .btc domains for Web3 users to link human-readable names to their wallets.
How can I buy a .btc domain? To buy a .btc domain, visit the BNS website, check availability, connect your Stacks-compatible wallet, and complete the purchase with 2 STX.
Why use .btc domains? .BTC domains simplify transactions by replacing complex wallet addresses with easy-to-remember names, enhancing user experience in the Bitcoin Web3 ecosystem.
FAQ:
What is Bitcoin Name Service (BNS)? Bitcoin Name Service (BNS) is a decentralized naming database on the Bitcoin blockchain, providing .btc domains for Web3 users.
How do I buy a .btc domain? To purchase a .btc domain, visit the BNS website, check availability, connect your Stacks-compatible wallet, and complete the purchase with 2 STX.
Why use .btc domains? .BTC domains offer human-readable names for wallets, simplifying transactions and enhancing user experience in the Bitcoin Web3 ecosystem.
