Handshake review
An open-source alternative root zone for teams prepared to operate blockchain naming infrastructure.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Handshake is an open-source, UTXO-based blockchain protocol for registering, renewing, and transferring DNS top-level domains. It is intended for technical users and developers who want to participate in a decentralized naming system rather than buy domains through a conventional centralized registrar. Network participants maintain its alternative root zone and root servers; Handshake does not aim to replace DNS itself. Its HNS coin system supports name registration and transfers, with bidding used for top-level names.
The software ecosystem includes full-node software for validating the network and serving the root zone, as well as a light client for verifying blockchain data and serving provable resource records. An API and developer documentation support integration and development. Windows, macOS, and Linux are listed platforms, alongside the API. The single supported blockchain makes the scope specific: Handshake is infrastructure for its own naming protocol, not a multi-chain domain management product. Self-hosted operation and the node or client choices fit teams comfortable managing technical infrastructure; those looking for a managed registrar workflow may prefer a centralized domain service.
Registration does not follow a fixed subscription or published per-domain price: top-level name acquisition relies on auctions, and costs can vary by name and registry arrangement. That model may suit participants who want on-chain registration, renewal, and transfer within the protocol, but makes expenses less predictable than a set-price registration flow. Support is through community and documentation, rather than a listed commercial support channel. Handshake is a reasonable fit for developers and organizations willing to operate decentralized DNS infrastructure; it is less suited to buyers prioritizing a straightforward registrar interface, fixed prices, or provider-managed operations.
Handshake pros and cons
- Where it wins
- On-chain registration, renewal, and transfer of DNS top-level domains
- Participants maintain a decentralized root zone and root servers
- Full-node and light-client software plus an API and developer documentation
- Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted infrastructure requires operating a node or client
- Top-level names use auctions, so costs can vary by name
- Focused on an alternative root zone, not a centralized registrar experience
Handshake fact sheet, pricing and score →
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