Web3 Domains: The Rise of Decentralized Domain Names like .eth and .crypto in 2025

As of March 25, 2025, Web3 domains like .eth and .crypto are transforming the internet, shifting power from centralized registries to users via blockchain technology. These decentralized domain names, stored as NFTs, simplify crypto transactions, enable uncensorable websites, and redefine digital identity. This article explores their ecosystem, key projects, influential figures, and recent events, optimized for SEO with keywords like "Web3 domains 2025" and "decentralized domain names."

What Are Web3 Domains?

Web3 domains are blockchain-based alternatives to traditional DNS names like .com. Unlike centralized domains managed by ICANN, they’re registered on blockchains (e.g., Ethereum, Polygon) as NFTs, offering full ownership without renewal fees. A .eth domain, for instance, links to an Ethereum wallet, replacing complex addresses with readable names like "john.eth." They support decentralized websites, crypto payments, and more, making them a cornerstone of Web3.

Leading Web3 Domain Projects

• Ethereum Name Service (ENS): Launched by Nick Johnson in 2017, ENS has 3M+ .eth domains registered by Q1 2025, integrating with wallets like MetaMask.
• Unstoppable Domains: Founded by Matthew Gould, it offers .crypto and .x domains, with 4M+ registrations, focusing on cross-chain compatibility.
• Solana Name Service (SNS): Powered by Bonfida, SNS provides .sol domains, hitting 500K users in 2025.

Key Figures Shaping the Space

• Nick Johnson: ENS creator, advancing domain usability with ERC-4337 updates.
• Matthew Gould: Unstoppable Domains’ CEO, pushing Web3 accessibility.
• Vitalik Buterin: Ethereum co-founder, whose platform underpins ENS.

Recent Events in 2025

• ENS Taipei Event: March 2025, ENS Labs joined ETHTaipei, unveiling new bounties (source: ens.domains).
• Unstoppable’s ICANN Accreditation: Q1 2025, it bridged DNS and Web3, boosting .x adoption.
• SNS Growth: Solana’s .sol domains surged 20% after mobile wallet integration.

SEO Optimization Strategies

To rank for "Web3 domains 2025":

• Keywords: Use "decentralized domains explained" and "buy .eth domains."
• Backlinks: Link to CoinDesk.
• Content: Create guides like "How to Register .crypto Domains."

Real-World Examples

• Vietnamese Creator on ENS: An artist minted "nguyen.eth" in 2025, selling NFTs worth $10K via OpenSea.
• Unstoppable for Business: A Hanoi startup used "shop.crypto" to host a decentralized e-commerce site, bypassing censorship.
• SNS for Gaming: A Solana game adopted "play.sol," streamlining in-game payments for 5K players.

Conclusion

Web3 domains like .eth and .crypto are the future of digital identity in 2025, driven by ENS, Unstoppable, and SNS. Figures like Johnson and Gould lead this shift, merging ownership with utility. Explore more at cryptostats.xyz. Will you claim your Web3 domain?