Stepping into the Permaweb: A Guide to Creating Your Own Permanent Page with ArNS

What is Permaweb?

First, let’s get clear on what Permaweb actually is. Permaweb stands for the permanent web—a collection of all web pages, applications, and files stored on the Arweave network. It feels and functions much like the current internet, but with one significant difference: everything uploaded to it is permanent and cannot be deleted. The Arweave blockchain is file-agnostic, meaning it supports any type of file—whether it’s a document, JPEG, PDF, or anything else.
When you upload any of these files to the Permaweb, they are assigned a URL (or more technically, a URI). Initially, this URL is very long and complex. That’s where ArNS comes in. ArNS replaces these long, complicated URLs with more memorable, personalized names that you choose. Now, let’s explore how to integrate your Permaweb page with your ArNS name.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Arweave Wallet

Before we dive in, the first thing you need is an Arweave wallet. Setting this up is quick and easy. Simply visit ArConnect, where you can get your wallet address in a few simple steps. Remember, it’s crucial to store your wallet seed phrases in a safe place.

Step 2: Creating Your Permaweb Page

With your wallet ready, connect it by going to Permapages Dashboard. Here’s the screen you’ll encounter:

As you can see, this is where you can write permanent and secure blog posts, sharing them with the world via the Permaweb. Today, we’re heading to the 'Create Web Page' section.

Once you click on 'Create Web Page,' the page you’ll create using Markdown syntax or text will open. This is where the magic happens. Take full advantage of the guidance and tips provided for Markdown elements to build your page.

Step 3: Enhancing Your Permaweb Page with HTML

For more detail and customization, I chose to create my page using HTML. As I discovered new things, I wanted to include them, and this gave me the exhilarating feeling of surfing on my Permaweb page.

Step 4: Adding Your Arprofile and More

After your page is prepared, you can add your Arprofile account as a profile to your page using the 'SHOW ADVANCED OPTIONS' below. This step is entirely optional—you can disable this option and create it yourself if you prefer. In this section, adjust the options according to your preferences, choose a page theme color, and even add widgets.

Another fantastic feature to consider is Stamp—a protocol on the Permaweb that allows you to leave a trace of the amazing things you find, enabling others to follow you. It’s like a social network for discovering content on the Permaweb. You can activate this option if you wish.
When everything is set, click 'Publish' to make your page live.

Step 5: Linking Your Page with ArNS

After hitting 'Publish,' you’ll receive the transaction ID of your page, along with the name you provided during creation, as shown on the screen. You can click 'Edit' to modify and republish your page at any time.

Here’s an important detail: every time you publish the page, it generates a different transaction ID. This means you’ll need to update the transaction ID in the target section of your ArNS name. To do this, copy the transaction ID from the page.

While your page is live and accessible via the link, it will have a long and complex URL. To make it more memorable and accessible, let’s link your page to a custom ArNS name.

Step 6: Registering and Linking Your ArNS Name

I included this visual to indicate that this name is entirely mine and unique to me.
Type the name you want in the search bar. If it’s available, you’ll see the 'Register' button.

By clicking on 'Register,' you’re directed to the page where you can claim your name. After selecting the number of years you want to own the name and using tIO, click on 'Advanced Options' at the bottom. Paste the transaction ID of your Permaweb page into the 'target ID' field and click 'Next.' After granting the necessary approvals and permissions from your wallet, you’re all set!

If you already have an ArNS name, just go to the 'Manage' section, edit the 'target ID' field, and add the transaction ID of your Permaweb page. That’s it!

Conclusion: Embracing the Future with Permaweb and ArNS

Creating and enhancing a Permaweb page is not just about building a website—it's about being part of a revolutionary shift in how we think about data permanence and digital ownership. With Permaweb, everything you upload remains permanent and unalterable, ensuring your content’s longevity and security in an ever-changing digital world.
ArNS takes this one step further by giving you the power to personalize and simplify the way people access your content. No more long, complex URLs; instead, you have a unique, memorable name that represents your presence on the Permaweb.
By embracing Permaweb and ArNS, you’re not only securing your digital legacy but also joining a growing community that values innovation, permanence, and freedom in the digital space. Whether you’re a creator, developer, or simply someone who cares about the future of the web, Permaweb and ArNS offer unparalleled tools to make your mark on the internet—forever.