lightning-dev
Lightning Address in a Bolt 12 world
Posted on: November 18, 2023 21:19 UTC
The discussion revolves around the implementation strategies for service providers in relation to DNS setup and Lightning Network addresses.
The suggested design integrates both option 1 and option 3, offering flexibility to service providers. This dual approach enables providers with restrictive DNS setups or those seeking simplicity to add a single TXT record for their users. Conversely, those prepared to manage their own DNS infrastructure could opt to maintain a BIND server, allowing them to host millions of records without additional DNS query latency.
Furthermore, the design supports user autonomy by enabling individuals to use any standard lightning wallet—custodial or non-custodial—to associate their BOLT12 offer with a personal domain name via a single TXT record, thus creating a unique Lightning Network address without relying on a Lightning Service Provider (LSP). The ease of this process is exemplified through the bitcoinheaders.net domain, which highlights the simplicity compared to establishing a web server for lnurl.
However, there is an acknowledgment of the hesitancy within enterprises to run their own DNS infrastructure due to the high stakes of potential failure. Despite the technical feasibility, the risk associated with DNS failure makes it unattractive for many large organizations. To address this concern, ensuring that option 3 is supported by sender software could alleviate enterprise apprehension, making the process as straightforward as using LNURL, provided their node software is appropriately configured to support such features.