A publication on Handshake and the DWeb. Towards a New Internet.
Handshake, by the numbers
On Update Chains
Matthew Zipkin presents a mechanism to use Handshake’s UPDATE covenant (that enables a name up to 512 bytes of arbitrary data each block) like a mini independent blockchain controlled by a Handshake name.
Update Chains are the precursor to a dSLD design that Zipkin is also working on, setting the stage for some of the ideas and components necessary for Handshake-native registries. However, this model is flexible enough to handle a variety of uses:
Anyone can propose a new standard data format and collaborate with the community to agree on a version number for that standard (we recommend writing a HIP). Layer 2 applications can process this data in a special way. Smart contracts, more complex scripting systems, compiled bytecode can all be used as Namestate Data. They may contain complex proofs like Bitcoin SPV merkle proofs to link HNS names with BTC transactions.
The draft goes on to discuss Access Modes:
In combination with a chain of special-purpose data blobs, an Update Chain can employ special types of output scripts to expand the use cases.
We can think of Access Modes in the concrete example of SLD registries. A Handshake name’s can design a registry on an Update Chain that is privately owned, public / ownerless, or perhaps subscription-based.
It’s fascinating to think about all that we can unlock when each Handshake name can be its own Layer 1.
This Week in Handshake
¹ Namebase Updates DNSSEC support is now enabled, a widely requested feature that will make Handshake domains more secure.
Plus, the Namebase Registry is now open to all Namebase users with 𝙃 1,500 staking fee and $1 fee per registration. Follow registrations via the @NBRegistry Twitter bot.
² Shake Shields Create custom shield avatars for your Handshake name set inside your wallet via on-chain TXT records.
³ Why get a HNS TLD? Neuenet presents several use cases with ideas on how to make Handshake work for you.
⁴ Will Web3 Make ICANN obsolete? In Forbes, Tom Barrett makes the case for securing a name on Handshake and your spot on the new internet.
Handshake nodes around the globe
Mapping Handshake
The Handshake ecosystem has seen rapid adoption in the short 2.5yrs since the genesis block was mined.
x/piring
Keep an eye on expiring names, soon to be available for auction.
Around the DWeb
Ethics of the DWeb Video recording
Reboot Towards Data Neutrality
Bitcoin Miners shut as Texas power grid nears brink
DWeb Events
July 13 DOTS Monthly Assembly
July 27 Pre-DWeb Camp Social
Aug 24 DWeb Camp