Domian HandShake

A top-level domain (TLD) is the final segment of a domain name in a website address — like .com, for example. TLDs are sometimes referred to as domain extensions. TLDs represent the highest level of the Domain Name System (DNS), which uses a naming hierarchy to point computers to the correct website. In the DNS, common TLDs include .com, .org, .net, .gov, and .edu. The DNS strictly limits the number of available TLDs, and each one is listed on an independent registry and controlled by an ICANN-approved registrar. With Handshake, thousands of new TLDs are up for grabs, including options available through Namecheap like .creator, .elite, and .orb. These domains are registered on the blockchain, which gives TLD owners the ability to operate

A second-level domain (SLD) is the part of a website address that comes directly before the top-level domain (TLD). For example, for the web address example.com, “example” is the SLD and “.com” is the TLD. Internet users can go to a domain name registrar to secure an SLD. However, their website will ultimately be overseen by the outside agency which administers their site’s TLD. At Namecheap, SLDs can be paired with new Handshake TLDs registered on the blockchain. This represents a shift toward decentralization, with progressive steps that help to grant users less oversight, more freedom, and enhanced security.

No. At this time, Namecheap is only registering second-level domains (SLDs) for a select number of top-level domains (TLDs). These are available at affordable yearly rates, creating an opportunity to snatch up web addresses with new Handshake domains. This also allows users to experience some of Handshake’s key benefits without the high upfront cost of purchasing a TLD, the stress of the auction process, or the hassle of investing in HNS tokens. Instead, you can select your own SLD, pair it with one of Namecheap’s Handshake TLDs, and register a memorable web address for personal or business use. Currently, Handshake TLDs are available to anyone with HNS coins through an online auction on websites like Namebase. For more information on the auction process and using Namebase, check out Handypedia.

A Handshake domain functions just like traditional domains available through the domain name system (DNS) when accessed with a DNS resolver. However, using a Handshake domain provides a few key advantages, including: • Online freedom: Handshake minimizes the role of centralized authorities, which means more freedom of expression online. At the same time, the blockchain ensures the permanence of each Handshake site, thereby eliminating the chance of outside interference and creating a corruption-resistant online space. • Safe from seizure: The blockchain-based system means that Handshake TLDs can’t expire, be deleted, or be seized by the government, ICANN, and other authorities. • Protection without CAs: Handshake users don’t need a Certificate Authority (CA) to act as a middleman for verification and security. Instead, Handshake domain owners sign and control their own private keys for authentication purposes. • More privacy: Users enjoy more anonymity when they use Handshake compared to traditional domains, which have to be registered with a third party. • Unique web addresses: Handshake offers a number of distinctive TLDs to set your identity apart. Examples include .pgp, .p, and .j. Regular domains like .com and .org are under the control of ICANN. When you have a Handshake domain, it’s under your control. You’re free to use it as you please without oversight or censorship from outside organizations. Another benefit of choosing a Handshake domain is enhanced security. Most websites are verified by certificate authorities (CAs). If a CA is attacked, sites may be susceptible to massive phishing scams, arbitrary take-downs, or data breaches. That’s not a concern when you’re using a domain on Handshake’s blockchain.