Exploring Blockchain Domains: How to Deploy and Access Websites "On-Chain"

The recent instability in traditional domain services has sparked renewed interest in decentralized alternatives. Blockchain-based website deployment offers several compelling advantages:

Key Benefits of On-Chain Websites

1. Decentralized Control: Modifications require consensus rather than centralized authority
2. Built-in Security: Cryptographic verification eliminates need for additional certificates
3. Censorship Resistance: No single entity can take down or alter content unilaterally

While initially perceived as experimental, blockchain domains like TON's .ton extension demonstrate practical utility in today's evolving web landscape.

Step-by-Step Guide to Deploying on TON Blockchain

1. Acquiring Your Blockchain Domain

👉 TON Domain Marketplace operates similarly to traditional domain registrars with these key differences:

• Pricing ranges from 1-100 TON based on character length
• Auction system determines final sale price
• Domains expire annually and renew as NFTs
• Secondary market exists for domain trading

2. Preparing Frontend Content

Standard web development practices apply:

1. Create HTML/CSS/JavaScript files
2. Configure Nginx server
3. Deploy to cloud hosting provider

Example minimal setup:

server {
    listen 80;
    server_name yourdomain.ton;
    root /var/www/html;
    index index.html;
}

3. Binding Content to Your .TON Domain

Critical components for successful binding:

1. ANDL Address (Blockchain equivalent of IP)
2. RLDP-HTTP Proxy (Converts HTTP↔UDP)
3. Global Config File (TON network parameters)

Configuration command:

rldp-http-proxy -p 8080 -c 3333 -C global.config.json

Accessing .TON Websites

Unlike traditional domains, .TON requires special resolution:

Resolution Process

1. Blockchain query for ANDL address
2. Request routing to designated machine
3. Page serving through proxy

Recommended Access Methods

• Tonutils Reverse Proxy (Official solution)
• Built-in Wallet Browser (Limited functionality)

Current Limitations and Challenges

FAQ Section

Q: How much does a .TON domain cost?
A: Prices vary from 1-100 TON depending on desirability and length, with premium short domains commanding higher values.

Q: Can I transfer my .TON domain?
A: Yes, domains exist as NFTs and can be traded on secondary markets just like other digital assets.

Q: Is specialized knowledge required to deploy?
A: Basic web development skills suffice for simple sites, though blockchain familiarity helps troubleshoot unique challenges.

Q: How does renewal work?
A: Domains have 1-year validity periods and must be renewed before expiration to maintain ownership.

Q: Are there browser extensions for .TON access?
A: While no major plugins exist yet, the TON Foundation provides official proxy tools for seamless browsing.

👉 Explore More Blockchain Web Solutions for cutting-edge decentralized technologies bridging traditional and on-chain internet experiences.