What is DNS, ENS, and DNSSEC?

What is DNS?

The DNS (Domain Name System) translates commonly used domain names like the ones you type into to browse the internet into an IP address. This IP address associated with the domain helps computers identify and communicate over networks. With this function, you can type an easy-to-use domain name to reach a website instead of an IP address.

What is ENS?

ENS stands for Ethereum Name Service. It’s a decentralized naming system that allows users to associate human-readable names (like domain names) with Ethereum addresses, smart contracts, and other resources.

ENS makes it easier to interact with blockchain-based services by using familiar names instead of long hexadecimal addresses.

What is DNSSEC?

DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) improves DNS security by enabling verification of DNS responses through cryptographic signatures. This ensures data authenticity and integrity, preventing attackers from redirecting users to malicious sites by spoofing DNS responses.

DNSSEC defends against various attacks, including cache poisoning and man-in-the-middle attacks, bolstering overall internet security.

DNSSEC must be activated for the .AM domain you are preparing to enable for integration. DNSSEC requirements are with RSA/SHA-256 or ECDSA keys. Your registrar should be able to help with this information and activation if needed. If not you can always transfer your domain to a different registrar that is DNSSEC capable with the requirements and activation.

Why is the use of ENS with .AM ccTLD Important?

Web developers, businesses, bloggers, and startups can create a personalized .AM domain for branding, enhancing their online presence and credibility. The .AM domain supports traditional web applications in WEB2 environments and integrates seamlessly with decentralized applications such as WEB3.

This integration provides a versatile and future-proof solution for establishing a strong digital identity and embracing emerging technologies in the evolving digital landscape of blockchain technology.

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Setting Up a .AM ccTLD to the Onchain ENS

To connect your .AM domain with the Onchain DNS and ENS configuration you will need a few things.

Step 1

Purchase a .AM ccTLD from a Registrar supporting the .AM ccTLD

Some popular local Armenian Registrars and popular international platforms.

• GlobalR.com
• Regnest.am
• Reg.am
• HayHost.am
• Internet.am
• GoDaddy.com (The .am registration is much higher than local but has ENS integrated with their platform.)
• 101domain.com

You can find a more expanded list on our Registrars Page.

Step 2

Create an Ethereum Wallet

These are the most popular platforms listed by ENS, that provide Ethereum wallets to create your Ethereum address to the ENS.

• LedgerLive (A Ledger cold wallet is required)
• Wallet Connect
• Rainbow
• Coinbase Wallet
• MetaMask
• Argent

Of course, these are not the only platforms to create an Ethereum wallet and some platforms will require a cold wallet.  Do your own research and find what platform is best for you.

**Below is a description of different wallet types for those new to blockchain.**

What Are Crypto Wallets and What are the differences?

Cold Wallet

Cold wallets are crypto wallets that are offline. This means the user physically holds them. The cold wallets don’t physically hold crypto.

They contain the private keys for your crypto assets to communicate on the blockchain that you are the owner.

Cold wallets create a higher level of security and reduce unauthorized access. Cold wallets will require seed phrases, pin codes, and sometimes biometrics to access the assets on the cold wallet.

Cold Wallet Examples

• Ledger

• Trezor Hardware Wallet

• Tangem Wallet

• Ellipal Cold Storage Wallet

• Arculus Cold Storage Wallet

• D’Cent Biometric Cold Storage Wallet

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Step 3

Enable DNSSEC

Contact your registrar to enable DNSSEC settings if you are unable to do so manually or require further assistance.

Step 4

Add Text Record (TXT Record)

This is required to show ownership.  You can request help from your registrar or search how-to guides on adding Text Records (TXT Records).

DNS ENS Guide

Ethereum Name Service (ENS) Onchain Guide

Step 5

Claim your domain

Go to the ENS Manager App to link your domain name (DNS name) with ENS. Press “Register“

**You will need to purchase Ethereum (ETH) to pay for required network fees.**

Step 6

Confirmation

Step 7

Send Transaction

Step 8

Transaction Complete 

Step 9

DNS ENS Importation Complete

https://app.ens.domains/

Help Documentation

DNS ENS Guide

Ethereum Name Service (ENS) Onchain Guide

Learn About DNS ENS Offchain Gasless configuration

Article: AM and Offchain Ethereum Name Service ENS

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