We know getting started in this new world of Web3 might be intimidating with long, confusing wallet addresses. Emily Tran highlights how the Ethereum Name Service (ENS) offers a solution: a username for the decentralized web. ENS makes these interactions seamless, putting users in control of their digital identity while maintaining ease of use.

What is ENS?

ENS, or Ethereum Name Service, is essentially a blockchain-based, decentralized naming system running on the Ethereum blockchain. Consider it the Web3 counterpart to the internet’s Domain Name System (DNS). So rather than entering a long string of numbers—the IP address—when trying to reach a website, you simply would enter the more user-friendly domain name like “google.com.” Like that, ENS has Humans are weird with their names. Launched in May of 2017, it quickly became the most popular and extensively integrated blockchain-based naming system.

Through ENS, users can register a domain name, like “alice.eth,” and connect it to their Ethereum address. Rather than sending Bob a complex 42-character hexadecimal address, Alice can make it easier. Now she can simply instruct people to send ETH to “alice.eth.” The ENS system operates as a smart contract under the hood, allowing users to interact with it easily through a web3 object found in libraries such as web3.js. That’s why it’s become much simpler to send and receive cryptocurrencies, directly interact with smart contracts, and explore the decentralized web.

Why Use ENS?

ENS provides a number of significant benefits, which has made it an essential utility for anyone active in the Web3 ecosystem. As Emily Tran puts it, ENS is fast becoming an essential ingredient for anyone who’s serious about being part of the decentralized web.

  • Replaces complex Ethereum addresses: ENS domains, like "myname.eth," are much easier to remember and use than long, complex Ethereum addresses. This simplifies transactions and reduces the risk of errors.
  • Easy to remember and share: Sharing a simple ENS domain is far more convenient than sharing a 42-character hexadecimal address. This makes it easier to receive cryptocurrency and interact with others.
  • Reduces errors: By using a shorter and more readable address, the likelihood of errors when sending or receiving cryptocurrency is significantly reduced. This can save users from costly mistakes.
  • More user-friendly experience: ENS enables a more user-friendly experience for interacting with the decentralized web. It makes the process of sending and receiving cryptocurrency much more intuitive.

How to Get Your ENS Domain

Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Ensure you have an Ethereum crypto wallet and some ETH for fees: You'll need a wallet like MetaMask or Trust Wallet and enough ETH to cover the registration fee and gas costs.
  2. Go to the ENS app: Navigate to the official ENS app website.
  3. Connect your wallet: Choose “Browser Wallet”, then select “Connect”.
  4. Search for a name you want: Enter your desired domain name in the search bar and check its availability.
  5. Register your domain: If the name is available, you’ll need the equivalent of $5 per year in ether plus enough for gas. Follow the prompts to complete the registration process.

Note that gas fees should be considered, which change based on the level of congestion on the network.

ENS as a Universal Web3 Profile

The potential of ENS goes beyond just making transactions easier. ENS for Emily Tran ENS can be the universal profile that enables us to embrace all of Web3’s possibilities, says Emily Tran.

ENS enables users to craft a customizable on chain profile to be used between different Web3 applications. That visual profile is made up of a profile photo, customizable cover image, name, bio, website and Twitter handle. By connecting this data to their ENS domain, users can create a unified online identity that persists beyond individual social media platforms.

This seamless integration with decentralized platforms such as Farcaster, Rainbow and Dentity transforms ENS into a powerful tool for users to control their online identity. It provides one unique verified identity. With this wallet identity, you can buy or mint NFTs, trade or provide liquidity with DeFi applications, vote on governance proposals, and more. This powerful capability makes ENS an essential building block in crafting a more intuitive and connected Web3 experience.