ENS may launch a Layer2 network? What is the growth logic behind it?

Ethereum Name Service (ENS) Executive Director Khori Whittaker revealed in an interview with foreign media Cointelegraph that ENS may build a protocol-specific Layer 2 network based on Optimism technology in the future to advance the vision of integrating ENS protocol with other ecosystems.

ENS Project Building its Own Layer2 Network

The ENS team is currently researching how to extend its Ethereum Name Service to Layer2, even considering using another network layer to provide cross-network services.

Internally, they are exploring whether to choose existing Ethereum Layer2 projects or launch a new L2 network.

Built for Cross-Chain Services: ENS Dedicated Layer2

According to Whittaker, the ENS team is actively researching and developing Layer2, with most discussions among developers focused on Optimism technology. However, they may also consider using zero-knowledge proof technology in the future, as it is crucial for ensuring the security of on-chain information.

The project is currently referred to as an identity layer, and preliminary results are expected to be seen later this year.

Addressing the Issue: ENS Consensus Limited to Ethereum Ecosystem

The value of domain names lies in their utility. ENS, whether in terms of its own name or existing technical architecture to market recognition, undoubtedly only holds value within the Ethereum ecosystem. However, as other ecosystems diversify, if ENS limits itself due to technical constraints, it may hinder the long-term development of the ENS business model.

Hence, it is crucial to promote protocol services to other ecosystems. The first attempt will be to integrate into the Ethereum Layer2 network ecosystem, with the most feasible approach likely being through CCIP Resolvers or building an identity layer to handle off-chain domain name resolution mechanisms.

Vitalik's post praises ENS, which surges by 90%, revealing the underlying public chain political maneuvering in the tweet.

Integration Key to ENS Growth Strategy

The development strategy of the ENS service can be observed from the recent moves of the ENS team: integration.

Whether planning to use Layer2 networks to build cross-chain protocol services, adding the functionality of CCIP Resolvers for off-chain information retrieval, or the recent launch of zero-cost DNS import services and collaboration with GoDaddy, all demonstrate the importance of integrating infrastructure.

ENS partners with domain registrar GoDaddy to launch zero-cost DNS import feature

By creating a complete infrastructure, integrating the Layer2 ecosystem and even traditional off-chain markets, expanding the potential market reach of ENS, ensuring future scalability, has been the focus of the ENS team's efforts over the past two years.

The Ethereum Name Service ENS plans to expand to Layer2, introducing Gas-free DNS domain functionality in Q3

However, the market changes rapidly, with the development of other ecosystems, the threats from competitors and Ethereum alternatives continue to increase, leaving little time for the ENS team. It is anticipated to see ENS introduce more new features and how they will respond to challenges in the future.