Term 5 Grants - Summary

For over a year, 3DNS has been integrating DNS domains with ENS, adding onchain functionality to traditional domains. As the first ICANN-accredited registrar to turn DNS domains into NFTs, 3DNS allows them to function as both ENS and DNS names, supporting ENS’s mission to connect with the global DNS namespace.

One key achievement is powering the .box TLD, the first fully onchain TLD that functions within both DNS and ENS ecosystems. This integration allows domains to serve as Web3 usernames, receive payments through ENS infrastructure, and manage identities. By leveraging DNSSEC and our L1 Gateway Contract, 3DNS ensures secure integration with Layer 2 solutions such as Optimism and Base, with over 35,000 domains on Optimism and 36,000 on Base already fully operational.

Key Projects:

  • my.box: The first fully onchain native and DNS-routable TLD, powered by 3DNS. It allows domains to function as ENS names, supporting traditional Web2 functions like websites and emails, while offering direct ownership, management, and onchain identity features.
  • Superchain Identity: We are building out an identity solution with Optimism using .super.box and chain.box subdomains. These names function as both DNS and ENS names.

Rationale:
Our goal is to simplify the process for any future TLD to become fully onchain and function as ENS names. 3DNS removes technical barriers, allowing new TLDs to integrate into the ENS ecosystem and benefit from ENS infrastructure, payments, and onchain management.

Key Features:

  • Full ENS Integration: DNS domains managed via 3DNS function as ENS names, supporting payments, onchain identity, and interaction with dApps. Users can set records like X (formerly Twitter), Discord, Telegram, and add blockchain addresses such as Solana, enabling them to receive payments across multiple chains.
  • ENS Gateway: A fully featured Layer 2 ENS Gateway supports Layer 2 solutions Optimism and Base.
  • Decentralized Hosting: Leverage IPFS and decentralized storage with 3DNS domains.

Conclusion:
3DNS simplifies the process for any future TLD to go fully onchain and function as ENS names. By integrating traditional DNS with ENS, we improve domain management and expand ENS adoption through identity and payment solutions.

We appreciate the support from the ENS DAO and stewards for helping bring this vision to life. We look forward to continuing our work and contributing to ENS’s growth.

Steward Commentary

3DNS brought the first onchain TLD that functions within both DNS and ENS ecosystems. This achievement cannot go unnoticed. Further, the code that enables .box is available on github and has been audited by spearbit’s cantina audit program at a cost of $93,750. Our grant to 3DNS includes reimbursement for the audit costs and an additional 25,000 USDC retroactive grant in recognition of the value provided through their my.box and Superchain initiatives for a total amount of 118,750 USDC.

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