The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) is actively exploring options to integrate its protocol with Ethereum layer-2 networks, with potential plans to launch its own in-house layer 2, according to Khori Whittaker, the executive director of ENS.
In an interview, Whittaker refrained from providing specific details about their research and development efforts but mentioned that the ENS team is currently deliberating whether to leverage an existing Ethereum layer-2 network or introduce their own layer 2, dubbed “the identity layer.”
“We’re deeply involved in researching and developing layer 2 applications, so I anticipate tangible outcomes from this research within the year,” Whittaker stated.
Whittaker disclosed that much of the discussions among ENS developers are centred on exploring development opportunities on Optimism. Additionally, future layer 2 development may incorporate zero-knowledge proofs, which play a critical role in safeguarding user privacy on public blockchains.
ENS faces significant challenges stemming from its protocol structure and limited awareness within the Ethereum ecosystem, Whittaker elaborated.
The Ethereum Name Service enables cryptocurrency users to acquire a “.eth” domain name, offering a user-friendly alternative to the complex alphanumeric strings that typically represent wallet addresses. This simplifies the process of transferring and receiving funds on the Ethereum network.
Whittaker’s remarks come shortly after ENS collaborated with domain name provider GoDaddy to enable crypto users to link their .eth domains to traditional Web2 domains, such as those ending in .com, without additional charges.
“We rely on builders and developers to incorporate ENS into their projects and promote its adoption. Overcoming this awareness challenge is a priority for us, and our collaboration with GoDaddy is a step in that direction,” Whittaker noted.
Whittaker emphasised the importance of wider blockchain adoption and suggested that partnerships like the one with GoDaddy could help ordinary web users understand and embrace blockchain technology more easily.
“I envision a future where discussions about Web2 versus Web3 become obsolete, and these technologies seamlessly integrate into everyday internet usage,” Whittaker expressed.