Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) v1.0
This W3C recommendation specifies the Decentralized Identifier (DID) data model, a new type of identifier that enables verifiable, decentralized digital identitAbstract
This W3C recommendation specifies the Decentralized Identifier (DID) data model, a new type of identifier that enables verifiable, decentralized digital identity. Unlike traditional identifiers (e.g., email addresses or usernames) that rely on centralized registries, DIDs are designed to be controlled by the DID subject—the entity the identifier refers to—without the need for a central authority. The standard defines a URI-based structure that links to a DID Document, which contains cryptographic material, authentication suites, and service endpoints necessary to interact with the identity. This framework allows for self-sovereign identity (SSI), where individuals and organizations can generate and manage their own persistent identifiers on any distributed ledger or decentralized network. The DID specification is foundational for the Web3 identity layer, enabling secure authentication, data integrity, and verifiable claims. By abstracting the registry layer, DIDs provide a universal method for identity resolution that is platform-agnostic, supporting a more private and user-centric approach to digital interactions. Authors: Drummond Reed, Manu Sporny, Dave Longley, Christopher Allen, Ryan Grant, Markus Sabadello Publication: Standard Specification Publication date: 2022-01-01Key findings
- Defines a standard for self-sovereign, decentralized identifiers (DIDs).
- Establishes a URI-based structure for resolvable digital identities.
- Introduces the DID Document as a container for authentication and service metadata.
- Provides a foundation for platform-agnostic, decentralized identity management.
Citation
Drummond Reed, Manu Sporny, Dave Longley, Christopher Allen, Ryan Grant, Markus Sabadello (2022). Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) v1.0. Standard Specification. https://www.w3.org/TR/did-core/Related knowledge
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Canonical knowledge ID:
research:decentralized-identifiers-dids-v1-0