Have you recently won a .eth short domain auction? Held a domain since ENS launched in 2017? Used the new instant registration feature in our official Manager? Or perhaps claimed a free subdomain via wallets, MEW, or ENS Now?
If so, you're likely wondering: What can I actually do with this domain?
Creating and selling domains isn't hard (hence the need for responsible practices), but building genuinely useful functionality and achieving ecosystem adoption is another matter. Among decentralized naming services, ENS stands as the clear leader.
This article details practical ENS use cases—not aspirational goals, but features you can leverage today.
One Domain for All Cryptocurrencies
ENS originally served as a naming system for Ethereum addresses. Over two years, it has been integrated into numerous wallets and dApps.
With multiple cryptocurrencies coexisting, ENS launched multi-coin support on mainnet, expanding address compatibility. Users can store any crypto address in their ENS records. Simply put: One ENS name can receive any cryptocurrency.
D’CENT Wallet pioneered this integration, and more wallets are following suit.
👉 Add crypto addresses to your ENS records via our Manager.
This feature cements ENS as the most widely adopted decentralized naming service for crypto wallets. For blockchain-based domains with broad ecosystem support, we recommend registering an ENS name.
Host Decentralized Websites
ENS partners with Protocol Labs (creators of IPFS, a decentralized file storage protocol). ENS provides naming, while IPFS handles storage—together forming a decentralized web.
Opera natively supports this combo (Brave is reportedly developing similar features). For other browsers, the MetaMask plugin enables access. Try entering "almonit.eth/" in your URL bar with MetaMask enabled.
For non-Ethereum browsers, append ".LINK" to the domain (e.g., almonit.eth.link).
Want to build your own decentralized site? Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Tor .onion Site Integration
Tor communities face a persistent challenge: obtaining human-readable .onion addresses without compromising security. ENS solves this via decentralized naming, bridging usability, security, and decentralization (detailed explanation).
Add Tor .onion addresses to ENS records (tutorial). With MetaMask-enabled Tor Browser, enter .ETH domains to resolve to .onion sites.
We’ve configured ten ENS domains pointing to popular .onion sites. Security considerations are discussed here.
Text Records
Our text record feature lets users voluntarily add personal data to ENS records.
Currently, we support eight record types:
- Website URL
- Avatar
- Description
- Notifications
- Keywords
- Twitter/Github usernames
Future updates will expand support, but we’re keen to see how these eight types are utilized.
Conclusion
These are just today’s capabilities. ENS continuously evolves—expect more use cases soon.
👉 ENS is a public good managed by a nonprofit. We welcome community feedback via our forum, Gitter, or GitHub.
Ready to start? Register an ENS domain today!
Disclaimer: This content aims to inform the Ethereum community. Always verify original sources and comply with terms of use.
FAQs
Q: How much does an ENS domain cost?
A: Pricing varies by length and demand. Short domains often auction for higher amounts.
Q: Can ENS replace DNS?
A: ENS complements DNS by offering blockchain-based naming with added decentralization benefits.
Q: Are ENS domains permanent?
A: Yes, unless you intentionally release ownership after registration.
Q: Which wallets support ENS?
A: Major wallets like MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and Argent integrate ENS. Check our list for updates.
Q: Can I transfer my ENS domain?
A: Yes—domains are ERC-721 NFTs, transferable like other digital assets.