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What Is IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) And Its Role In Web3

IPF in Web3

In traditional web, or Web2.0, as we know, if you want to access a file on a network, you have to retrieve it from a central server. IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) is quite different from that as it’s decentralized. Think of it as the HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) or FTP (File Transfer Protocol) for Web3. 

Developed by Protocol Labs and released in 2015, IPFS has gained popularity, especially within the Web3 community. It’s built using popular programming languages Python, JavaScript, and Go. More importantly, it targets some inherent problems of centralized file-sharing systems, such as privacy concerns, security vulnerabilities, and censorship. 

What is IPFS (InterPlanetary File System)?

IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) is a decentralized, peer-to-peer (P2P) protocol for storing and sharing files. In contrast to client-server models such as HTTP, it doesn’t rely on a centralized server. Instead, it’s spread over computers worldwide that share the storage capacity. 

It’s similar to BitTorrent, a distributed P2P file-sharing protocol that became popular for sharing media. 

Any computer or server can join the IPFS network. Instead of location, IPFS uses content identifiers (CID). Users can find files using CID, which the protocol maps using a distributed hash table (DHT). 

How Does IPFS Work?

IPFS is all about decentralization, much like Web3 as a whole. This protocol involves computers spread worldwide that serve as nodes. Any file to be stored on this network is first broken into blocks. These blocks are then stored on the nodes. 

But here’s where things get interesting—a single file may not be stored in one location. Once it’s broken into blocks, those blocks are stored on different nodes. 

It uses a content-addressed naming system to locate the file. Instead of specifying the location of a file, users can put CIDs, which are, in turn, the unique hash of the file’s content. As a result, any computer within the network can access and download the file as long as it knows the CIDs. Also, each node has a direct acyclic graph (DAG), which contains the blocks stored on that particular node. This way, the node that contains a block can be located. Once all blocks are located and retrieved, the file can be reconstructed.

These CIDs are similar to URLs and permanent unless the file changes. But as far as the location is concerned, it doesn’t matter where the file is located, so it can move around and remain accessible with the CID, similar to how a website can be moved to another server but can still be accessed using the same URL. 

Applications of the InterPlanetary File System

IPFS, as a decentralized file-sharing system, can serve various use cases. Here are its common applications:

  • File Sharing: The primary use case of this specific decentralized protocol is sharing file and users can share even large files quickly and safely. There’s no need for a central server or login credentials. Users can access a file as long as they have the private key for it. This can provide a quick and safe way for people to collaborate on projects. 
  • Content Distribution: IPFS can also be used for content distribution, with files distributed across the network. One particular advantage of the InterPlanetary File System for content delivery is speed. The decentralized nature of this file-sharing protocol results in low latency, which means large files like videos can be accessed quickly. It can be a viable solution for streaming services or social media platforms. 
  • Web Hosting: IPFS and Web3 domains can provide permanent web hosting where websites live across distributed nodes. Unlike websites using HTTP or HTTPS protocols, websites on this protocol can avoid censorship. When Wikipedia was blocked in Turkey, a static copy of the online encyclopedia was made available in the country via IPFS. 

Importance of IPFS for Web3

IPFS, as a decentralized file storage and sharing protocol, upholds the ideals of Web3. While blockchain, as a technology, dominates the Web3 space, IPFS also has its place in the stack. While blockchain can power the financial system of the new Internet, IPFS can handle files, websites, and even some applications that aren’t blockchain-based but are still decentralized. 

More significantly, IPFS addresses the same concerns that Web3 does. Here’s why it’s an integral part of Web3:

No Censorship

Websites on the traditional web can be easily blocked by authorities who often regulate and control service providers. That may not happen with InterPlanetary File System, which isn’t controlled by a central authority. The power and storage are distributed, which makes it difficult for content to be blocked in a certain location. This way, IPFS can ensure the transparency of information, which is a major theme of Web3. 

Fast Content Delivery

Another reason IPFS is important for Web3 is its performance advantage. This file-sharing system’s P2P structure makes data more readily available, resulting in lower downtime than traditional client-server protocols, which often have a single point of failure. 

Challenges to Counter

InterPlanetary File System still has a long road ahead of it, as there are some big issues to address. Firstly, IPFS, in its current state, is running on a command line interface and with APIs. So, while it’s developer-friendly, it’s not yet user-friendly for the average user. 

The adoption of IPFS is gradually growing, but it’s still a new technology, so some kinks may need to be ironed out before everyone uses it online. 

Embracing the Web3 Universe!

IPFS has caught the attention of some of the biggest names in the world. In 2020, Netflix collaborated with the team behind IPFS to empower its developers and take advantage of distributed nodes. It’s only a matter of time before IPFS becomes content distributors’ go-to choice. 

Although not based on blockchain, it’s an inherently decentralized file storage and sharing system wholly aligned with the Web3 vision. 

Web3 websites can be hosted on IPFS permanently so If you’re looking for Web3 domains, look no further than Freename.
Start your Web3 Journey with Freename!

InterPlanetary File System: FAQs

What is the purpose of IPFS in Web3?

IPFS (InterPanetary File System) acts as a decentralized storage layer in Web3. It replaces centralized servers with decentralized nodes (computers or servers) that store files divided into blocks. The purpose of IPFS is to offer decentralized storage so files can be shared securely and avoid unnecessary censorship or control from central authorities. 

How does IPFS work in relation to blockchain domains?

IPFS can store the content linked to blockchain domains, such as websites or application code. The domain acts as a pointer to the data stored on IPFS, much like URLs point to the data (website) stored on servers. Blockchain domains, also called Web3 domains, create a permanent and tamper-proof association with the data on IPFS. 

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Accordingly to the day when you will finalise your purchase, you have the right to receive from 1 to 3 NFT Domains for FREE!

Once you have completed your order, within 48h you will automatically receive on www.freename.io platform, in your personal area “portfolio” the randomly assigned NFT Domain/s.

You can chose on which blockchain you want to mint on and minting fee is covered by Freename!

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Once you have added your favorite items to the cart, you proceed to “checkout” and add your coupon to the “coupon box”.

Said coupon will instantly do its magic and your due total will drop!

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How does it work?

Once you have completed your order, you will automatically receive on www.freename.io platform, in your personal area “portfolio” the randomly assigned NFT Domain value $50 or if you’re lucky a randomly assigned TLD with value $699 (between these: .immersive; .multiverse; .freelancer; .cashback; .hologram)

you can chose on which blockchain you want to mint your NFT Domain/TLD on and minting fee is covered by Freename!

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Why do i Need a Wallet?

Freename domains are blockchain-based assets and would be minted and stored using a wallet. Users are required to mint and manage their domains using a Metamask or Coinbase-configured wallet. It must be a non-custodial wallet, meaning that one must own the private keys to the wallet in order to approve transactions via a signature.

To benefit from Freename Web 3 domains/TLDs, you must have a wallet. This is because Web 3 domains/TLDs are blockchain-based assets. Users can mint and manage their domains using Metamask or Coinbase-configured wallets.

Keep in mind that it must be a non-custodial wallet. You own the private keys to the wallet (in order to approve transactions via a signature).

Are the Domains Associated with ICANN?

ICANN does not manage freename.io domains. Freename.io believes their TLDs/domains must allow customers to operate independently. Freename.io wants to build a utility infrastructure, allowing customers to use their services for valuable and generative purposes. By leveraging blockchain technology, Freename Web 3 domains/TLDs have no centralized authority imposing rules and regulations.

What is a Wallet?

Every blockchain user requires a wallet in order to interact with the network. A wallet is essentially an account on the blockchain where transactions can be sent and received. It is also where one can store blockchain assets such as cryptocurrency or NFTs (non-fungible tokens). There is no personal information associated with a wallet and none is required to create one. A wallet consists of a public key and a private key. The public key can be safely shared with anyone who wishes to send assets to the corresponding wallet, however, the private key should not be shared and is the key to accessing the wallet in the event where access is lost or to create another instance.

A crypto wallet (cryptocurrency wallet) is software or hardware that enables users to store and use cryptocurrency. With cryptocurrencies, there isn’t any actual money to carry around in a wallet. They exist on the blockchain. Similarly to traditional bank transfers, crypto wallets enable users to send and receive cryptocurrencies, NFTs, etc.

A wallet consists of a public key and a private key. To receive assets, you share your public key associated with your wallet. You should NEVER share your private key.

How do i Claim my Earnings from Freename

ou can withdraw revenues generated passively through a cryptocurrency transfer. Connect your cryptocurrency wallet and, once your withdrawal request is confirmed, the desired amount is pulled from Freename’s reserves and conveniently delivered to you!

Claim your earnings by following these steps:

  1. Connect your cryptocurrency wallet to Freename.io
  2. Request a withdrawal
  3. Receive request confirmation
  4. Receive withdrawal directly to your wallet.

Can i Transfer Domains?

Yes. The domain is stored in your cryptocurrency wallet and can be transferred by you after you have minted it. Access your portfolio, select the TLD or Domain you wish to transfer and type the recipient’s address. Afterwards, you must paste the OTP code you received by mail to confirm the transaction. Keep in mind that currently, it is not possible to import the domain that has been transferred, but it will be possible soon!

Yes. Domains are transferable ONLY after a TLD/domain has been minted and stored in a user’s wallet.

To transfer the TLD (or domain), the user must:

  • Access their wallet
  • Select the item they want to transfer
  • Enter the recipient’s address.
  • Confirm the transaction by pasting the OTP received by email

In the future, Freename.io will support importing domains that have been transferred.

What about Trademarks?

Registering a trademark on your Freename Web3 TLD will allow you to protect your web3 TLD and your logo worldwide juridically.

From the moment you deposit a trademark request, your web3 TLD will be protected worldwide for 6 months awaiting for the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IGE.ch) to confirm and register the availability of your TLD.****

A trademark is any symbol, phrase, or word that allows customers to identify a company’s goods or services. Freename is a web3 domain/TLD provider that also provides trademark registration.

A user must reach out to the trademark department to register a trademark. To get your trademark filed for review at the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property, a user must provide the following:

  1. Complete a Know your customer (KYC)
  2. A list of TLDs they wish to trademark
  3. Proof of payment

Once these conditions are met, it takes one week for the trademark to be reviewed and logo/TLDs to be provided with six months of worldwide protection.

Is Minting the same as Buying?

Purchasing a TLD (or domain) on Freename and minting it on the blockchain are two distinct steps. When you purchase a TLD (or domain), the transaction is recorded in Freename’s database and not on the blockchain. Minting a TLD (or domain) on the blockchain requires a second step: log into the user’s personal area, select the TLD (or domain) and press “mint TLD” (or domain): done! Don’t worry, once you have purchased a Freename domain, no one can take it away from you!

No. Buying and Minting a TLD/domain are two different things.**

Buying **is the process of recording a transaction on Freename’s database and not on the blockchain.

Minting is the process of pushing a user’s domain from Freename.io data onto the public ledger of a blockchain and into a user’s wallet. Giving the user full control over the TLD/domain.

It is very easy to mint a domain/TLD once you purchase it. Simply:

  • Log into your personal area
  • Select the TLD (or domain)
  • Press “mint TLD” (or domain)

What is Domain Minting?

Minting is the process of publishing a Freename domain (or TLD) on the blockchain via your wallet to gain full custody of the domain. This means that the only person that has control over the domain (or TLD) is the person who controls (has access to) the wallet.

Minting is the process of pushing a user’s domain from Freename.io data onto the public ledger of a blockchain and into a user’s wallet. Giving the user full ownership over the domain.

Minting on Freename.io is as simple as the following steps:

  1. Go to the Freename.io website
  2. Enter the TLD/domain you want to buy in the search bar
  3. Add the TLD/domain to your cart
  4. Go to checkout
  5. Create a Freename.io account
  6. Purchase the TLD/domain with cryptocurrency or a credit card
  7. Go to “portfolio and incomes.”
  8. Click on mint TLD/domain

Which domains are Protected?

Protected domains and TLDs are domains and TLDs that we’ve detected are associated with a brand, organization, or notable person. We believe it is important to increase adoption for the next generation of the internet by helping to onboard brands into the Web3 era. If you are interested in applying for a Protected domain, please contact us.

TLDs/Domains associated with a notable person, brand or organization are considered Protected Domains. Protected domains help onboard brands in Web 3 increasing adoption. Protected domains also protect users from others impersonating/stealing their domains.

Reach out to Freename.io to apply for a protected domain.

Why use Freename?

Freename domains are unique by their very nature: only with Freename you can register domains with unique TLDs for your digital identity while passively earning money!

Freename.io is not only the leading TLD and Domains platform in Web 3, but also lets users generate passive income!

Owning a Freename Web 3 TLD entitles users to receive passive income whenever a domain is bought on their TLD. Users can register and mint TLD/domains of their choice if available.

What is a Domain?

A domain name is a string of letters and/or numbers that points to the IP address of the corresponding website. Generally, it is easier to remember a name than a long string of numbers.

A domain name is an address that people type into a browser bar to find a website. It consists of a Top-Level Domain (TLD), everything that comes after the dot, and the Second-Level Domain (SLD), everything that comes before the dot.

For example, “Freename.io” is the domain name, “Freename” is the SLD and “io” is the TLD.

Which Chains are Supported?

Freename has a multi-chain approach. You can choose on which Blockchain to mint your Web3 Domains and TLDs ranging Among Polygon, Cronos, and Binance.

A user can mint a Freename.io domain/TLD on the following blockchains:

  • Polygon
  • Cronos
  • Binance

Freename plans to expand its multi-chain approach by adding blockchains upon which domains can be minted.

Are there Renewal Fees?

No! Once you’ve bought a Freename Domain or TLD, it’s yours forever, no renewal fees ever!

No. There are no renewal fees on Freename.io. Once a user has paid a one-time payment for a domain/TLD, they own it. Forever.

This is the significant advantage of Web 3 domain/TLD over traditional alternatives.

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