Web3 domains are based on blockchain technology and allow for decentralized administration. They’re saved as NFTs in blockchains like Ethereum, making them censorship-resistant and fully owned by the user. They link cryptocurrency wallets, decentralized websites and other Web3 applications, which makes them a central part of the new, user-centered internet.

What is a Web3 domain name?

Web3 domains are unique digital identities that are stored on a blockchain and registered and run as a non-fungible token (NFT). They are integrated as smart contracts in blockchains like Ethereum, Polygon and Solana and enable decentralized, unchangeable and secure name allocation. They serve as addresses that can be read by humans, for example for cryptocurrency wallets or decentralized applications (also known as DApps).

Because they are stored on a blockchain, Web3 domains are forgery-proof and enable direct interaction with Web3 protocols without central control instances. They’re implemented in the form of NFT standards like ERC-721 and ERC-1155, which ensures their interoperability with other blockchain applications. The domains are a central part of the infrastructure of the decentralized internet and offer a permanent digital identity that works independently of centralized providers.

Definition

Web3 refers to the next level of development of the internet, which is based on decentralization, blockchain technology and user-controlled identities. Unlike traditional Web2, which is dominated by centralized platforms and intermediaries, Web3 enables direct, secure and transparent interactions between users. That creates an internet-based ecosystem in which property, data protection and digital transactions can be managed without centralized authorities.

What’s the difference between traditional domains and Web3 domains?

Unlike traditional domains, which are managed by centralized registrars, Web3 domain names are stored on a blockchain. That eliminates dependency on institutions like ICANN and DENIC. Domain owners have full control of their domain and don’t need to pay yearly fees. While classic domains are primarily used for accessing centralized websites, Web3 domains also offer features like direct linking with wallet addresses and support for decentralized applications.

They also allow for the hosting of censorship-resistant websites in peer-to-peer networks. Their decentralized nature protects against domain seizures and facilitates global transactions. However, Web3 domains aren’t yet natively supported by all browsers, which limits their reach.

Domain Checker
  • .ca
  • .com
  • .net
  • .info
  • .org
  • .pro
  • .ca
  • .com
  • .net
  • .info
  • .org
  • .pro

What are the top 15 Web3 domains?

Web3 domains have been around for less than a decade, but 10 million new domain endings have already been registered. Here are the most popular Web3 domain endings according to the Global Domain Report 2025 by InterNetX:

  1. .eth: One of the most well-known Web3 domains; managed by the Ethereum Name Service, which is often used to link to Ethereum wallets
  2. .nft: NFT domain for identifying digital collectibles and NFT projects and making them more accessible
  3. .crypto: Ending for crypto wallets, decentralized websites and Web3 identities
  4. .wallet: Optimized for crypto payments; enables easy use as a wallet address in lieu of long alphanumeric strings
  5. .x: Short and versatile domain ending for various uses
  6. .blockchain: This blockchain domain indicates direct connection to blockchain technology and is often used for projects in the field of smart contracts and DeFi
  7. .bitcoin: Specially designed for Bitcoin-related services to support wallets, payment services and decentralized applications in the Bitcoin ecosystem
  8. .zil: Created by the Zilliqa Name Service (ZNS) and closely connected with the Zilliqa blockchain
  9. .dao: Used by decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) to mark their digital presence
  10. .888: A very symbolic extension often associated with luck, exclusivity and high-value digital assets
  11. .polygon: Developed for users and projects in the Polygon network
  12. .go: A flexible ending that’s often used for gaming, metaverse projects and Blockchain applications
  13. .metaverse: Specially developed for virtual worlds, digital real estate and immersive Web3 experiences to clearly identify metaverse projects
  14. .hi: Innovative domain ending frequently used for personalized digital identities
  15. .hodl: Popular ending among crypto and trading enthusiasts that refers to the term “HODL”, meaning holding on for a long time

What are the most expensive Web3 domain names?

Web3 domain names are often expensive, as they are based on unique digital assets that are registered as NFTs on a blockchain. Additionally, they are permanently owned by the buyer, without annual renewal fees, which increases their long-term value. Below we list the most expensive Web3 domain name purchases according to DotNames:

  1. paradigm.eth – $1,508,884
  2. 000.eth – $317,759
  3. abc.eth – $253,100
  4. deepak.eth – $220,401
  5. porno.eth – $204,505
  6. mazars.eth – $195,067
  7. artdao.eth – $194,560
  8. sapdeutschland.eth – $179,731
  9. ensmaxisnft.eth – $166,315
  10. opensea.eth – $163,889
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