ENS vs. Unstoppable Domains vs. BNS: How .locker Stands Out

Have you noticed on the blockchain users who turn those random strings of crypto characters into simple, memorable names? That’s the magic of blockchain domains, and there are some big players competing for your attention: ENS, Unstoppable Domains, and BNS. In this article, we’ll compare their strengths and weaknesses, then show you how .locker takes a fresh approach to anchor your Web3 identity on the Bitcoin network. 

So if you’ve ever wished owning your online name was as secure as Bitcoin without the headache of juggling a bunch of addresses, .locker is for you. Let's learn how.

ENS vs. Unstoppable Domains vs. BNS: How .locker Stands Out

Blockchain domains like .locker are opening a new way to personalize your online identity for the fast-moving world of Web3. Ethereum Name Service (ENS), Unstoppable Domains, and Bitcoin Name System (BNS) each deliver unique advantages, which we’ll examine in this article.

my.locker combines Web2 domains and Bitcoin-backed security, which makes digital identities simple to adopt. Let's take a deeper look at digital identity and Web3, and how .locker is backed by the power of Bitcoin.

Why Digital Identity Matters in Web3

At my.locker, we believe your digital identity should belong entirely to you. This seems simple enough, right? Unfortunately, today’s data systems often make it challenging to maintain control. Web3 self-sovereign identity (SSI) is a decentralized identity model that allows you to fully own and manage your digital identity without depending on a central authority. 

Unlike traditional identity systems, where third parties hold and manage your data, SSI like we offer at .locker puts you directly in charge, ensuring only you can decide when and how to share your information. Self-sovereign identity (and Web3 more broadly) with .locker gives you the tools to reclaim control over your digital self.

How Decentralized Name Services Work

Traditional domains typically live on centralized servers, whereas blockchain domains like .locker rely on consensus mechanisms to confirm ownership. They’re tied to smart contracts that set the rules for registering or transferring a domain, which means your name can’t be taken unless you give permission.

Web3 naming services also reduce reliance on wallet addresses, so you don't have to copy long strings of letters and digits every time you want to do a transaction. This can help prevent mistakes and make everyday transactions easier.

Ethereum Name Service (ENS) Overview

ENS lets you register an address ending with “.eth” and link it to various Ethereum-based assets (from wallets to decentralized apps). Ethereum smart contracts mean updates (like renewing a name) require gas fees.

Key Features of ENS

ENS turns random strings of letters and numbers into recognizable human-readable names. People often use it to simplify payments, sign transactions, or represent crypto wallets. Because everything is contained on Ethereum, you can attach your .eth name to NFTs, decentralized websites, or even official documents stored on the blockchain.

Pros and Cons of ENS for Web3 Identity

On the upside, ENS has a strong presence in the Ethereum ecosystem, which means you’ll find it supported by many wallets and apps. On the downside, transactions can be costlier during times of high network use, and everything revolves around Ethereum. Anyone seeking a multi-chain domain might prefer a different approach.

Unstoppable Domains Overview

Unstoppable Domains offers .crypto and other TLDs as single-purchase, permanent domains. There aren’t any annual renewals, simplifying the process for people who want a one-and-done setup. You’ll often see references to Unstoppable working on Ethereum or Polygon, and it has gained attention for bridging wallet addresses to human-readable names.

Pros and Cons of Unstoppable Domains

Unstoppable can be used across blockchains and doesn’t require ongoing fees.  A potential drawback: Unstoppable is operated by a private company, giving it a degree of influence over domain administration and policies.

Bitcoin Name System (BNS) Overview

BNS runs on Bitcoin via the Stacks blockchain. With “.btc” domains, BNS taps into Bitcoin’s secure proof-of-work model, providing an exceptionally resilient framework. People who trust Bitcoin’s track record tend to embrace BNS, since it links decentralized names to a network with the longest-running history in the crypto space.

How BNS Leverages Bitcoin for Decentralized Naming

BNS names point to records stored on Stacks, which settle on Bitcoin blocks for final security. This chain-of-record ensures that a .btc address is anchored to the most recognized proof-of-work network. That means you get the reliability of Bitcoin plus the flexibility of a blockchain naming protocol.

What Makes .locker Unique?

my.locker is the first to combine a standard DNS domain (like you’d buy from a regular registrar) with a corresponding identity minted on Bitcoin’s blockchain. You pick your .locker name through normal channels and then seamlessly claim the matching digital identity anchored to Bitcoin. We’ve built it for everyday users who want to enter Web3 with minimal fuss. It really couldn’t be simpler - we’ve made it that way.

Key Differentiators of .locker Digital Identities

.locker takes “two-for-one” approach: an address for the Web2 world, plus a Web3 self-sovereign identity rooted in Bitcoin (leveraging BNS). 

This strategy maintains the convenience of a traditional website and the secure, censorship-resistant features of the largest proof-of-work network: Bitcoin.

Get started with .locker today: Claim Your Digital Identity.

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