Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs)
What DIDs Are
A Decentralized Identifier (DID) is a globally unique, self-controlled identifier that enables individuals, organizations, or devices to create and manage their own digital identities independently from centralized authorities.
Their primary characteristics include:
- Unique Digital Identifiers: DIDs are identifiers that you create, own, and control independently of any organization or central authority.
- Versatile Representation: They can represent individuals, organizations, devices, and more.
- Proof of Control: You can cryptographically prove that you control your DID, unlike traditional identifiers like social security numbers or platform usernames.
DID Documents
Each DID resolves to a DID Document, which contains information such as:
- Public keys used for cryptographic operations.
- Service endpoints for interaction with the DID.
DID Methods
Different DID methods define how DIDs are created, resolved, and managed. Some examples include:
did:web: DIDs anchored to web domains.did:ethr: DIDs managed through the Ethereum blockchain.did:key: DIDs generated directly from cryptographic key pairs.
How DIDs Work
- Creation: A user or entity generates their own DID.
- Resolution: The DID resolves to a DID Document that contains essential information like public keys and service endpoints.
- Update: The owner can update the DID Document, such as rotating cryptographic keys or adding service endpoints.
- Deactivation: DIDs can be deactivated when no longer in use.
Benefits of DIDs
- Self-Sovereign Control: You have full control over your digital identity without reliance on intermediaries.
- Interoperability: Based on standards, DIDs can be used across different platforms and services.
- Cryptographic Security: DIDs use cryptographic keys to ensure secure interactions and ownership.