Swiss-based web3 domain registrar Freename has rolled out a new Web2 domain integration, allowing traditional domains such as .com, .ai, and .io to be linked to crypto wallets and on-chain identities. Crypto users have long been able to use crypto-specific domains like .defi as wallet addresses to accept payments or verify ownership. Now, Freename is bringing those same capabilities to popular mainstream domains. Accepting crypto payments is easier than ever The launch marks the first time a single domain can operate across both the traditional internet and decentralized applications, according to the company. Businesses and individuals can now register or transfer standard Web2 domains on Freename’s platform and use them for everything from websites and email to receiving crypto payments. In practice, this means a business could accept USDT payments at mybusiness.com instead of sharing long wallet strings. Freelancers could send and receive crypto directly to name.ai, while the domains continue functioning as normal for email and websites. “With this launch, the internet evolves from static to dynamic,” said Davide Vicini, CEO and co-founder of Freename. “In Web2, domains only pointed to servers. In Web3, they become multi-purpose: unlocking wallets, payments, smart contracts, and on-chain operations. Today, that future becomes reality.” Freename’s on-chain DNS system is designed to ensure that Web3 domains resolve in standard browsers while also enabling Web2 domains to work across wallets and payment platforms. Users can even create and monetize their own top-level domains, earning royalties from registrations. “Your .com is now your wallet,” said Mattia Martone, Freename’s COO and co-founder. “We’re building the Unified Internet, where domains act as secure, multi-chain digital passports, empowering everyone to unify and control their digital identity.” The company is celebrating the rollout with promotions including up to 50% off Web3 registrations, free .com domains with qualifying purchases, and $10 credits per Web2 domain transfer for use toward Web3 services. How to link a .com domain to your crypto wallet To link your MetaMask wallet (required) with a .com or other traditional domain of your choice, follow the steps below. 1. Register or transfer your .com domain* on Freename Users can register new .com domains or bring their existing ones to Freename. *This works with all Web2 popular extensions, like .ai, .xyz, .io and not only .com. 2. Freename mirrors the .com domain on-chain Using proprietary Blockchain-Mirroring Technology, the DNS-based .com is tokenized into an on-chain identity. This creates a one-to-one mapping between the Web2 DNS domain and its on-chain version. 3. Link to your crypto wallet The user connects a wallet (e.g., MetaMask with Freename) to associate with his mirrored .com domain. 4. Start receiving crypto payments Instead of sharing long and complex wallet addresses, users can now receive payments directly to their .com domain (e.g., alice.com) using MetaMask for example. Payments are routed securely through the on-chain mapping created by Freename. The bottom line As Freename highlights in its press release, the timing is critical, noting that the number of Web3 wallets now exceeds that of registered domains. Demand for integrated digital identities has never been greater. The company sees this as part of a $141 billion market opportunity spanning DNS, blockchain, and decentralized identity services. Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
