Ethereum Name Service
The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) is a blockchain protocol that permits users to use human-readable names in place of cryptocurrency wallet addresses.[1]
Parallels with and connections to DNS
ENS operates similarly to the DNS, and is ICP-3 compatible. As with second-level domains, users may choose a name under the ENS default domain (.eth), or they may connect an existing domain in the DNS to their wallet using ENS as the validator.[2] Connecting an existing web domain to the ENS requires the user to activate DNSSEC for the domain and add an _ens record to the DNS records for the domain through their registrar.[3]
Blockchain and DNS Domains
As noted above, any existing domain may be connected to the ENS by modifying its DNS record to include an _ens entry linked to an Ethereum wallet. In addition, there are additional options for those wishing to utilize the ENS, either as a stand-alone protocol or in conjunction with a TLD.
.eth
The ENS allows users to register a name under the .eth zone extension for creating wallet addresses. Registration fees vary based on the length of the second-level string being registered.[4] .eth is not a TLD in the Domain Name System.[5]
.luxe
In 2018, ENS and Minds + Machines announced an agreement to utilize .luxe as a top level domain dedicated to ENS addresses.[6] The .luxe TLD is marketed as a means of connecting a web domain with cryptocurrency transactions and other blockchain applications.[7]