Web3 is transforming the internet by putting users in control of their assets and identity. However, one major barrier remains to be overcome; the complexity of blockchain addresses. Wallet addresses that are long and cryptic are intimidating to newbies while also being prone to expensive mistakes. For this reason, Web3 usernames — human-readable names that are used right on blockchain — seem like a game changer providing an approachable, safer crypto involvement.
Web3 Usernames: What Are They?
Web3 usernames are simple memorable names which point directly to smart contracts mapping them to blockchain addresses. Instead of having to copy paste long hexadecimal strings, users can spend or get more cryptocurrency, interact with dApps (decentralized applications), and build their on-chain identity using a single name that’s easy to remember. The likes of ENS (Ethereum Name Service), SupraNS (Native Blockchain Nameservice), as well as Arbitrum and many others have come up with solutions that make blockchain easier to understand and use.
Web3 username systems are decentralized registries built on smart contracts. ENS leverages Ethereum’s smart contract infrastructure, while SupraNS uses Supra’s high-speed L1 for sub-second, multi-chain resolution. Whenever someone registers a username, it gets linked to one or more wallet addresses via a smart contract. Applications and wallets can query these registries to resolve usernames to addresses hence leading to seamless and trustless interactions throughout the Web3 ecosystem.
Why Human-Readable Usernames Matter
Traditional blockchain addresses are hard to recall and easy to mistype which leads to loss of funds as well as poor user experience. Nevertheless, by human-readable usernames:
- Simplify transactions: no need for copy-pasting since you automatically verify that all the data entered is correct.
- Make crypto beginners and non-tech users friendly.
- Allow social identity on-chain with customizable profiles; avatars; bios; etc.
Main features and functionalities
Modern Web3 username systems offer:
- Address Simplification: You can use a simple username in place of a complicated address.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: You can use the username on dApps, wallets, and other services.
- Profile Customization: There are social links and avatars that can help personalize your on-chain identity.
- Multi-Chain Support: Platforms like SupraNS are able to resolve usernames on several blockchains, ensuring the future of your identity.
Web3 Usernames and Security
Web3 usernames are secured by the blockchain technology. Only the owner can use his or her private key to change the username address mapping or transfer the ownership of the username. Users, particularly those that associate usernames with their real life, should be cautious of the fact that usernames are public. Having a different username for each application and applying extra security features can help lessen the risks.
The Importance of Web3 Usernames in Widespread Adoption
Web3 usernames will be the next step for newcomers to the crypto space. They eliminate the technical barriers to wallet creations, dApp interactions, and crypto payments. Personalized usernames foster trust and community which are badly needed in DeFi, NFTs, and DAOs. For example, Ethereum’s dave.eth and SupraNS’s dave.supra are driving the crypto space by having integrated username systems in their platforms.
How to Acquire and Use Web3 Usernames
- Choose A Blockchain: Use a provider of blockchain based username like SupraNS or ENS
- Connect to A Wallet: Use only the approved wallets to interact with the platform.
- Conduct A Search: Determine whether or not the selective username is still available
- Pay the requisite fees and complete the other steps of the on-chain registration process to obtain the username.
- If it is available on the platform, add a picture, profile description, and any other available personal pages.
- Whenever possible, log onto and initiate transactions on the supported platforms with your username.
- Perform constant physical checks on the username with auxiliary addresses and activate the available security settings.
Web3 usernames greatly streamline usability with the system and other platforms and enhance security and system collaboration. Having more and more users and platform systems integrated will make Web3 Usernames the standard for a decentralized digital identity.
Why Web3 Usernames Are the Next Big Thing in Crypto was originally published in The Capital on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.