Mike Carson, founder of the Bitcoin-based naming project Spaces Protocol, advocates for decentralized domain names anchored on the Bitcoin network. His proposal emerges in response to recent security issues with centralized domain systems, notably an attack on the Squarespace DNS registry on July 11, which compromised over 100 DeFi projects and led to significant financial losses.
Carson, who previously co-founded Park.io and Wizehive, argues that domain names, like digital assets, should be managed on a blockchain rather than through centralized authorities. His experience with ICANN-accredited registrars reinforced his belief that decentralization could mitigate risks and enhance security.
Drawing parallels between domain registrars and banks, Carson highlights the risks of relying on third parties. He points to past incidents, such as government censorship and high-profile social media account blocks, to underline the need for a decentralized approach.
Carson believes Bitcoin, with its robust security and decentralization, is the ideal platform for decentralized domain naming. He asserts that Spaces Protocol, designed with cypherpunk ideals and no need for separate tokens or changes to Bitcoin’s protocol, offers a scalable solution for managing billions of domain names while preserving Bitcoin’s integrity.
Carson envisions decentralized naming as a critical advancement that could attract billions of new users to Bitcoin, paralleling the impact of Bitcoin as money. He asserts that decentralized naming could be the next revolutionary application on the Bitcoin blockchain.
August 2024, Cryptoniteuae