How to Register a .eth Name
Registering an ENS name is straightforward, but there are a few things worth knowing before you do it so you do not overpay or get stuck.
Before you register
- Check availability - the name may already be taken.
- Understand the cost - registration is paid in ETH and scales with name length. Longer names are cheaper; short premium names are expensive.
- Have a wallet - you need an Ethereum wallet with ETH to pay the registration fee and gas.
The registration steps
1. Choose your name
Pick a name that is meaningful, memorable, and appropriate for how you plan to use it. Remember it is renewable, not a one-off purchase.
2. Check availability
Search to confirm the name is available. If it is taken but expired, it may return to the market after the grace period, but do not count on it.
3. Complete registration
Use the official ENS app or a trusted ENS-native platform. You will commit to a registration (typically 1 year) and pay the fee plus gas. The registrar reserves the name for you.
4. Set your records
After registration, set your primary name and add records such as your wallet address, avatar, and any other metadata.
Costs to expect
There are two main costs: the registration fee (the price of the name itself) and the gas (the Ethereum network cost to execute the transaction). Gas varies with network congestion, so registering during off-peak times can save money.
Watch the total: fee plus gas. A cheap name can still cost more than expected if gas spikes.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Registering without checking the full cost (fee + gas).
- Forgetting that a name is renewable - mark your expiry so you do not lose it.
- Using a platform that adds hidden fees or takes custody of your keys.
Next steps
Once registered, learn about renewals and subnames to get the most from your name.