Web2, Web3 & Web5 Domains Explained
The Internet is changing fast, and so is the way we own and manage domain names. Traditional Web2 domains like `.com` and `.org` are still essential, but **Web3 and Web5 domains** are redefining what it means to have a truly secure, censorship-resistant digital presence.
Web2 vs Web3 vs Web5 domains, how they differ, and how you can start building your brand identity across all three layers today.
What Are Web2, Web3 & Web5 Domains?
1. Web2 Domains – The Traditional Internet
- Examples:
.com,.net,.org,.io - Managed by centralized registries (ICANN and accredited registrars)
- You rent them yearly, and ownership can be revoked or transferred by the registry
- Perfect for SEO, business websites, and email hosting
2. Web3 Domains – Blockchain-Powered Ownership
- Examples:
.eth(Ethereum Name Service),.crypto(Unstoppable Domains),.btc(Stacks),.sol(Solana) - Purchased as NFTs; ownership is tied to your crypto wallet
- Resistant to censorship – nobody can “seize” your domain
- Can be used for decentralized websites (IPFS, Arweave), crypto wallet addresses, and dApp logins
3. Web5 Domains – Decentralized Identity (DID)
- Examples:
did:btc:xyz,did:ion:abc - These aren’t always traditional domains – they’re self-sovereign identities
- Built on Bitcoin and distributed identity layers like ION
- No renewal fees, no registry, full control of your digital identity
- Used for authentication, data vaults, and long-term identity across apps
Web2 vs Web3 vs Web5 Domains: Key Differences
Here’s a quick snapshot:
| Feature | Web2 | Web3 | Web5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Rented (annual) | True ownership (NFTs) | Permanent (self-sovereign) |
| Censorship Resistance | Low | High | Highest |
| Usage | Websites, email | Wallets, dApps, decentralized websites | Identity & data portability |
| Examples | .com, .net | .eth, .crypto, .btc | did:btc, did:ion |
Why You Need All Three
Securing your brand or personal identity across Web2, Web3, and Web5 is the best way to stay ahead:
- Protect your brand from phishing attacks or imitators.
- Own your name in traditional and blockchain ecosystems.
- Build trust with customers and communities in Web3 spaces.
- Prepare for the future of self-sovereign identity in Web5.
Where to Get Started: Top Domain Providers
Here are a few providers for each category:
Web2 Providers (Traditional Domains)
Web3 Providers
- Ethereum Name Service (ENS) –
.eth - Unstoppable Domains –
.crypto,.nft,.x - Handshake – Entire TLDs on-chain
- Stacks
.btc– Bitcoin-native names - Solana Name Service –
.sol
Web5 / DID Providers
Pro tip: Many of these providers support cross-chain logins, crypto wallet integrations, and even one-click decentralized website hosting.
Bundles: One Identity Across All Layers
If you’re serious about brand protection or digital sovereignty, consider buying domain bundles.
Example:
company.com(Web2)company.eth(Web3)company.btc(Web3 Bitcoin)did:btc:company(Web5 identity)
This way, you control your presence on all fronts and can connect your VPS hosting, crypto wallets, and decentralized apps seamlessly.
Next Steps
- Choose your names – Secure the
.com(or your main TLD) first, then add Web3 and Web5 identities. - Pick a hosting provider – If you’re building a site, you’ll need VPS or decentralized hosting (IPFS/Arweave).
- Integrate everything – Use your Web3 names as wallet addresses, ENS for dApp logins, and Web5 IDs for authentication.
Want Help?
We’re building a VPS & domain hosting platform that makes it simple to:
- Register Web2 + Web3 + Web5 domains in one place
- Host your website traditionally or on decentralized networks
- Lease or auction premium blockchain domains
Stay tuned – we’ll be rolling out bundles and reseller options soon!
Final Word
The future of the Internet isn’t just Web2 or Web3 – it’s all of them working together. By locking in your digital identity across all layers now, you future-proof your presence and protect your brand.
Start small, pick your key names, and expand as your needs grow.