What is Bitcoin Name Service (BNS)? A Complete Guide to BTC Domains

👉 Discover how BNS revolutionizes Bitcoin transactions

Introduction

Imagine sending Bitcoin to a simple address like "satoshi.btc" instead of a complex alphanumeric string. The Bitcoin Name Service (BNS) makes this possible by creating human-readable domain names for Bitcoin addresses. This guide explores BNS, its benefits, registration process, and how it compares to traditional DNS.

What is Bitcoin Name Service (BNS)?

BNS is a decentralized naming system built on the Bitcoin blockchain via Stacks. It allows users to register .btc domains, turning lengthy wallet addresses into memorable usernames (e.g., "yourname.btc"). Key features:

• Decentralized: No central authority controls BNS.
• Secure: Leverages Bitcoin’s blockchain immutability.
• Web3 Integration: Compatible with dApps and crypto wallets.

How BNS Works

1. Registration: Users register a .btc domain (e.g., "alice.btc") via platforms like Stacks.
2. Linking: The domain is tied to a Bitcoin wallet address.
3. Transactions: Send/receive BTC using the domain instead of the raw address.

Example:

• Complex Address: bc1qxy2kg...
• BNS Address: alice.btc

Benefits of BNS

| Feature | Advantage |
|---------|-----------|
| Readability | Simplified transactions with easy-to-remember names. |
| Security | Tamper-proof records on the Bitcoin blockchain. |
| Ownership | Domains are NFTs—no renewal fees, fully user-controlled. |
| Censorship Resistance | No central entity can revoke domains. |

👉 Explore BNS domains today

How to Register a .BTC Domain

1. Choose a Platform: Stacks or Hiro.so.
2. Fund Wallet: Use STX tokens (e.g., via Xverse wallet).
3. Search & Register: Check domain availability and pay the one-time fee.

Cost: Varies by domain length/premium status (e.g., 1–5 STX).

BNS vs. DNS: Key Differences

| Feature | BNS | DNS |
|---------|-----|-----|
| Ownership | User-owned (NFT) | Leased annually |
| Decentralization | Yes | No (ICANN-controlled) |
| Use Case | Crypto wallets, Web3 | Websites, emails |
| Security | Blockchain-backed | DNSSEC-dependent |

Use Cases for BNS

1. Wallet Addresses: Replace bc1q... with john.btc.
2. Decentralized Websites: Host content via IPFS/Stacks.
3. Web3 Identity: Unified identity across dApps.
4. Branding: Secure .btc domains for businesses.

Example: nftgallery.btc for a NFT marketplace smart contract.

Future of BNS

• Cross-Chain Support: Use .btc on Ethereum/Solana.
• Browser Integration: Native support in Brave/Opera.
• AI Profiles: Dynamic Web3 identities linked to BNS.

FAQs

1. Is BNS compatible with all wallets?
Yes, if the wallet supports Stacks (e.g., Xverse, Ledger).

2. Can I transfer my .btc domain?
Yes—domains are tradable NFTs.

3. Are there renewal fees?
No, one-time registration only.

Conclusion

BNS bridges the gap between accessibility and decentralization, making Bitcoin transactions intuitive. As Web3 grows, BNS domains will become vital for digital identity and payments.

👉 Start your BNS journey here