What is the Ethereum Name Service (ENS)?

ENS also called as Ethereum Name Service are domains that replace lengthy and clunky crypto public addresses. They aim to simplify and improve the accuracy of transactions within the Ethereum ecosystem.

These domains operate similarly to the internet’s Domain Name System (DNS) but are built on the Ethereum blockchain. 

For example, instead of entering a cumbersome string of characters to send funds, you could use a name like “Alice.eth,” making transactions more straightforward and less prone to errors.

How Does ENS Work?

The ENS works like the internet’s Domain Name System (DNS) by mapping easy-to-read names to complex Ethereum addresses. 

ENS uses a hierarchical domain structure, where the owner of a domain controls the top-level domain and any subdomains. Every ENS domain has an owner who can transfer ownership at their discretion. 

The registration process is handled by the ENS registry, a core component of the system.

Here’s how an ENS works 

Registration: Users register a name (e.g., “john.eth”) via the ENS registry, paying with Ether.

Resolution: ENS resolves human-readable names to Ethereum addresses, enabling users to send funds to “john.eth” instead of a long address.

Ownership Control: Owners manage their domains, including creating subdomains or transferring ownership, all recorded on the blockchain.

ENS as NFTs

Every ENS domain is represented as an ERC-721 token on Ethereum. This means ENS names share the same standards as NFTs, giving them unique, verifiable ownership on-chain. Like NFTs, ENS domains can be transferred, traded, or sold, which adds flexibility and utility beyond just sending or receiving funds.

The ENS Token

In addition to domains, ENS also has its own governance token, $ENS, launched in 2021. Holders of this token can participate in shaping the protocol by voting on important proposals such as community initiatives, protocol upgrades and much more.

The $ENS token is also actively traded and is listed on major exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, and Uniswap, providing both governance utility and liquidity in the wider crypto market. While ENS domains simplify transactions, the ENS token gives the community a voice in the project’s long-term growth and decentralization.

Do I Need an ENS Domain?

Whether you need an ENS domain depends on your engagement with the Ethereum ecosystem. If you frequently send or receive cryptocurrencies, an ENS domain can streamline transactions and improve accuracy.

Additionally, owning an ENS domain signals active participation in the Ethereum community, similar to owning a .com domain on the internet, helping establish your presence within the ecosystem.

How to Get an ENS Domain?

To acquire an ENS domain, you register a name through the ENS registry, which requires a transaction using Ethereum’s native cryptocurrency, Ether.

To buy your own ENS domain you need to install a non custodial wallet such as  Metamask or Trust wallet if you don’t have one yet. 

Next, you need to fund your wallet with ETH. Once done, you must visit the official website of ENS.

Next, click on Launch app 

Now, you must find a username of your choice.

Now, choose the username and connect your wallet. Make sure your wallet is funded enough. 

Once you have chosen your username simply pay for it with ETH. You are free to select the number of years you want to keep the name for. The longer the cheaper.

Once registered, you gain full control over the domain, enabling you to use it for receiving funds and other purposes within the Ethereum ecosystem.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the Ethereum Name Service (ENS) offers a user-friendly solution for navigating the Ethereum ecosystem by replacing complex cryptocurrency addresses with simple, memorable names like “Alice.eth.

By functioning similarly to the internet’s DNS, ENS streamlines transactions, enhances accuracy, and establishes a stronger presence within the Ethereum community. 

Acquiring an ENS domain is straightforward through the ENS registry, requiring only a MetaMask wallet, some Ether, and a few steps to register your chosen name. 

Whether you’re an active participant in the Ethereum network or simply looking to simplify your crypto interactions, an ENS domain is a valuable tool for seamless and secure engagement in the blockchain world.