Web3 Domains Explained: How .LOCKER Improves Flexibility Online
Web3 is changing how we engage with the Internet, shifting from passive users to active owners of our digital presence.
It offers promising answers to long-standing privacy, security, and control concerns. As Web3 is continuously growing, it sparks both curiosity and high expectations about what this next phase of the Internet holds for digital ownership and personal data protection.
With Web3 technologies comes a new wave of innovation, including Web3 domains. We’re excited to introduce .LOCKER, our recently launched domain extension built with Web3 functionality in mind. Before we cover .LOCKER, let's briefly go over both Web3 and Web3 digital identity.
What Is Web3?
Web3 represents the shift from centralized control to decentralized technologies, where users can manage their own data, identities, and assets.
So, if there's Web3, there must be Web1 and Web2, right? Here is how the Internet has evolved from phase 1 to phase 3:
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Web1 was the first version of the Internet with static, read-only websites.
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Web2 introduced interactive platforms like social media, which are controlled by centralized companies.
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Web3 is the next phase of the Internet. It's built on blockchain, and it gives users ownership over their data, identity, and assets.
Unlike previous versions, Web3 allows individuals to act as stakeholders in decentralized networks like Bitcoin and Stacks. This way, Web3 is both contributing to and benefiting from their growth. It also introduces innovations that reduce dependence on traditional institutions:
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DeFi (Decentralized Finance) lets people access financial services like lending or trading without banks.
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NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are unique digital items that prove ownership of things like art or music.
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DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations) are internet-based communities that make decisions together without a central leader.
Together, these technologies support a more inclusive digital economy where users have a direct stake in the platforms they use.
For those who actively participate in this space, .LOCKER is a domain that supports blockchain-based use cases without requiring deep technical knowledge.
What’s the Difference Between a Web2 Domain and a Web3 Digital Identity?
Traditional (Web2) domains operate through an established, centralized Domain Name System (DNS) infrastructure. This centralized infrastructure has powered the Internet for decades, making it easy for anyone to register, manage, and transfer domain names through trusted registrars. Each TLD has different rules, so sometimes they can be suspended or deleted if certain rules are broken.
Web3 domains, like .LOCKER, operates on blockchain technology:
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They support multiple use cases: they are also your crypto address, your login ID, and your digital signature.
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Smart contracts manage these Web3 identities automatically. When you register one, the blockchain records you as the owner, making the system more secure, transparent, and resistant to interference.
It’s important to note that the exact features can vary depending on the TLD, so always check specifics before registering.
Introducing .LOCKER: A Bitcoin-Based Digital Identity
.LOCKER brings something fresh to the domain space, it connects the ease of Web2 with the freedom of Web3. It's a digital identity that works both ways, giving you the best of both worlds.
What makes .LOCKER special:
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Built on Bitcoin: Secure, widely known blockchain.
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Web2 and Web3 compatible: Works with both regular websites and decentralized apps.
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User-friendly: No need for deep blockchain knowledge to get started.
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It’s your crypto wallet address (but way easier to remember).
.LOCKER domain is ideal for blockchain startups, creators accepting on-chain payments, or users who want control over their online identity. It’s a great fit for crypto-native users and a manageable entry point for those testing blockchain waters, but who aren’t yet fully ready for Web3.
How Does a Crypto Wallet Address Work?
A crypto wallet is an app that lets you store, send, and receive digital money like Bitcoin. If you register your .LOCKER domain name, you can use it to make your transactions easier.
Instead of using long, complicated wallet addresses made up of random numbers and letters, you can link your domain to your crypto wallet (like Leather). This allows you to send and receive transactions using a simple, easy-to-remember domain name, making the entire process more user-friendly.
Example: You can replace "3FZbgi29cpjqeyHuJJnkLjdRtktZc5…" with "yourname.locker" and simply make transactions.
How to Claim A .LOCKER Digital Identity
Getting your own .LOCKER domain is simple:
1. Check availability: Search for your desired .LOCKER domain name and see if it’s available.
2. Choose your term: Select how long you want your initial registration to last (it could be up to 10 years).
3. Create your account: Set up your free account to manage your domain.
4. Pay & confirm: Complete your purchase with a credit card or crypto.
5. Claim your .LOCKER digital identity: When you successfully finish your registration, you’ll get an email from the central registry asking you to claim your .LOCKER digital identity.
Once you've got your .LOCKER domain, you can start using it for payments, websites, apps, and more.
Conclusion
The Internet is evolving, and Web3 is no longer just a concept, it's a reality. With it comes a new wave of domains that are adding some new functionalities.
For those engaged in blockchain , or NFTs, or just want a secure and flexible online identity, a Web3 domain like .LOCKER can meet their needs. To explore more, check out .LOCKER's Learning Hub for more details and useful tips.
The future of the Internet isn't just about a space to browse, it's about having more control over your place in it. Don't just be a guest on someone else's platform and take your digital identity into your hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Web3 domains?
Web3 domains are blockchain-based domains, and some of them have different ownership rights from those of traditional domains. They function as both websites and simple payment addresses for on-chain transactions, offering greater resistance to censorship and control by central authorities.
What does a Web3 address look like?
Web3 addresses use custom extensions like yourname.locker instead of traditional domain extensions like somedomain.com. They replace complicated cryptocurrency wallet addresses (like bc1qxy2kgdygjrsqtRjapdke999zq2n0yrf2493p83kkfjhx0wlhj...) with simple names like "yourname.locker" for payments and identification.
What is the difference between Web2 and Web3 domains?
Web2 domains (.COM, .NET) use the traditional DNS system with standard renewal processes. Web3 domains operate on blockchain technology with different registration systems and often provide additional functionality as payment addresses and digital IDs, not just website URLs. Are Web3 domains legit? Yes, Web3 domains are legitimate digital assets built on established blockchain technology.
What is the .LOCKER domain?
.LOCKER is a Bitcoin-based Web3 domain offering a different digital identity approach. It works across both traditional websites and decentralized apps, functioning as your payment address, digital ID, and website URL all in one. It's built on Bitcoin's secure blockchain but designed for everyday users.