What is Unstoppable Domains?
Unstoppable Domains is a company that provides blockchain-based domain names. The San Francisco-based company started by providing domains ending in .crypto (based on Ethereum) and .zil (based on the Zilliqa blockchain). But in 2021, Unstoppable Domains added more domain name choices, including .blockchain, .bitcoin, .dao, .nft and .coin.
These domain names will be registered on the blockchain, making them censorship-resistant and permanent. Unlike traditional domain names in which the host can pull them down, blockchain-based domains are yours forever once you acquire them. You only pay a one-time fee for blockchain-based domain names and you don’t ever need to renew your domain.
Domains from Unstoppable Domains are minted and sold as NFTs. They feature infrastructure that enables people to transact cryptocurrency using a human-readable name – instead of the rather unwieldy alphanumeric string of characters representing public keys. The goal of Unstoppable Domains is to ultimately create a more decentralized web.
Disclaimer: This information should not be interpreted as an endorsement of cryptocurrency or any specific
provider, service or offering. It is not a recommendation to trade.
NFTs is shorthand for non-fungible tokens. NFTs are the opposite of fungible tokens, which describe assets that can be substituted for assets of similar value. For example, if Alice sends Bob some Bitcoin, that Bitcoin has the same value as any other Bitcoin in Bob’s possession.
On the other hand, NFTs, which are the blockchain-based representations of items, are unique or “one-of-a-kind.” An NFT is distinguishable from other assets thanks to its unique, associated metadata. This metadata contains the name of the asset and any other details that the creator desires. This data is permanently recorded on the blockchain.
NFTs can be rare since it’s up to the creator to release or “mint” new tokens. In the case of Unstoppable Domains, it is withholding domains with high perceived rarity from being bought. For example, vitalik.crypto is not for sale since it will fetch a much higher price later once domains from Unstoppable Domains have become a standard.
Another quality that defines NFTs is indivisibility. A fungible token, such as a single Bitcoin, can be divided into smaller units called Satoshis. An NFT exists as a whole. This means NFT domains are not divisible. NFTs can take domain names to the next level.
How does Unstoppable Domains work?
Unstoppable Domains grants users domain names that can’t be controlled or censored. The domain owner is entirely in charge of the domain and not even the provider can influence any aspect of the domain. Users pay a one-time fee and do not need to renew the subscription.
Also, Unstoppable Domains lets crypto wallet holders use their domains to make cryptocurrency transactions. The technology provides simple usernames to replace lengthy and error-prone public addresses that are made of numbers and letters. For example, instead of sending money to Vitalik Buterin’s Ethereum address (0xab5801a7d398351b8be11c439e05c5b3259aec9b), if the domain vitalik.crypto was owned by that address, users would simply be able to send money to vitalik.crypto.
Since domains from Unstoppable Domains are decentralized, they are much safer than traditional domains. These domains are more protected against privacy breaches or DDoS attacks.
In 2021, domains from Unstoppable Domains are supported by Brave, Opera, Chrome and Firefox browsers. More than 285 cryptocurrencies can be sent to a domain, allowing users a high degree of freedom. Unstoppable Domains has partnered with the “.wallet Alliance” to support users across a range of crypto wallets. In order to send money to a domain like vitalik.crypto, your cryptocurrency wallet has to be able to interpret that domain and turn it into the right address.
Does Unstoppable Domains have a token?
As of 2021, Unstoppable Domains does not have a token, and there is no mention by the development team of one in the pipeline.
What are the benefits of a domain from Unstoppable Domains?
A domain from Unstoppable Domains has several benefits over its traditional counterpart. Just like other blockchain-powered applications, domains from Unstoppable Domains cannot be censored by the government or any other power.
In addition, you, as the owner of a domain, have complete control. The technology also simplifies the whole process of transacting in cryptocurrencies. Here are some benefits of a domain from Unstoppable Domains:
Full ownership
Unlike traditional domains that you lease, a domain from Unstoppable Domains is yours forever. That means you have custody of your domain name and can sell or transfer it at any time without the need for an intermediary or power to authorize the action.
Censorship-resistant
Being blockchain-native, domains from Unstoppable Domains are immune from arbitrary takedowns or regional blocking. Content that is deemed controversial, such as activism, can find a secure home on Unstoppable Domains. Also, no company, state or group can pull down or compromise in any way an Unstoppable Domains’ website unless they own it.
Simpler crypto payments
You no longer have to deal with long, user-unfriendly wallet addresses when sending and receiving cryptocurrency. Simply tell the sender your domain that’s attached to the address under the hood. For example, if your name is Alice, you can name your domain alice.crypto instead of copying and pasting your address – a less user-friendly option.
One-time payments
Unlike traditional domains, domains from Unstoppable Domains are not rented or leased. When you purchase a domain, you own it forever. Not only is it a time-saver, but it also removes the hassle of having to renew your registration fees at each turn of the year.
Can I resell my domain from Unstoppable Domains?
Yes, you can resell your domain. If you intend to resell your domain, you can mark it for sale and provide a contact address next to it. OpenSea is an example of a third-party marketplace that supports such sales. Domain names can be sold as collectibles.
How to buy a domain from Unstoppable Domains
- To get started on buying a domain name, visit https://unstoppabledomains.com.
- Click on the search bar and enter the domain name, for example, “zil”.
- A new page will open with a list of possible extensions. The ones labeled “Protected” are unavailable. Unstoppable Domains will suggest several available extensions, each with their price.
- Choose an extension, e.g. washingtonzil. Navigate to the top right and click on the cart. To check out, you need to create an account if you don’t have one.
- After signing in, you’ll be asked to choose a payment method, such as crypto, PayPal, credit card or crypto.com.
- The site supports Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Dai(ERC-20), Litecoin and USDC (ERC-20).
- Click on your desired crypto and complete the transaction. The domain name is now yours.
Unstoppable Domains overview
Unstoppable Domains is making the concept of blockchain and cryptocurrency more friendly to users. By supporting simple and user-friendly addresses, a decentralized web is the next frontier in blockchain, and companies like Unstoppable Domains are at the forefront of manifesting that reality.
Disclaimer: Cryptocurrencies are speculative, complex and involve significant risks – they are highly
volatile and sensitive to secondary activity. Performance is unpredictable and past performance is no guarantee of
future performance. Consider your own circumstances, and obtain your own advice, before relying on this information.
You should also verify the nature of any product or service (including its legal status and relevant regulatory
requirements) and consult the relevant Regulators' websites before making any decision. Finder, or the author, may
have holdings in the cryptocurrencies discussed.
