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This new blockchain-based DNS has some holes.
I just came across a press release issued last month from a company called Packet. It promises decentralized, censorship-resistant domains. However, unlike some previous blockchain “domain” systems, it says websites built on Packet are accessible through all browsers. Oh, and they’re free for life!
But unpack it just a bit, and you will see why this is yet another naming project bound to fail.
The first confusing thing is the idea that this is a decentralized naming system accessible in all browsers. The company does this by offering third level domains under existing real-DNS domains.
For example, you can register bob.pkt. But this is only accessible on browsers through domains like bob.pkt.yachts or bob.pkt.mom.
The minute you try to access one of these domains through a browser, you’re using the centralized DNS. That’s why they’re accessible to everyone.
And they aren’t very censorship-resistant. Sure, Packet might not censor your domain. Still, if you’re doing something illegal, suddenly the second level domain (e.g. pkt.yachts) is in jeopardy of being taken away, impacting everyone who tries to access PKT domains through that domain.
And you’re dependent on Packet to keep renewing the domain. Otherwise, well, we’ve seen this movie before.
I’m not sure who needs an uncensorable domain, but the idea that these domains are yours for life and you can’t lose them is highly dependent on Packet and other registrants.
Now, let’s talk about what makes these domains free for life. You have to stake PKT cryptocurrency to get your domain. Staking is kind of like lending. You can keep the domain as long as you continue to stake the crypto. You can unstake at any time and relinquish your crypto.
If you’re OK staking the crypto, just follow this simple seven-step process. (It might take more steps if the minimum stake value changes while you’re registering your domain because otherwise, it would be too simple to register domains.)
In the words of Mike Mann, “Short.”
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Andrew Allemann has been registering domains for over 25 years and publishing Domain Name Wire since 2005. He has been quoted about his expertise in domain names by The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and NPR. Connect with Andrew: LinkedIn – Twitter/X – Facebook
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Domain Name Wire is a trade publication for the domain name industry covering topics relevant to domain investors, brand owners, policy makers, domain registrars and registries, and more. Founded in 2005, Domain Name Wire has been cited by Wall Street Journal, New York Times, NPR, and Washington Post. Read More About DNW
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