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What does a DID identify?

Distinguish the identifier, its document and its subject.

  1. DIDresolves to
  2. DID documentdescribes
  3. Methods and services
Relationship sketch · arrows show responsibilities and connections, not a complete protocol sequence.

A DID is a URI identifier. It can identify people, organizations, devices or other subjects. Its associated document describes verification methods and services.

Imagine a laboratory camera with a DID. The name identifies the camera; it does not give the camera a human identity document. The person managing its keys need not be everyone who uses it.

When encountering a DID, ask: what does it identify, who controls relevant operations, and what additional evidence does this task require? These questions prepare you to understand wallets, credentials and authorization.

Sources and further reading

Referenced here

Terms

  • DID

    A DID is a digital identifier. It helps its holder and a verifier establish who controls an identity and who a claim relates to. It is not a wallet, and it does not replace application accounts, sign-in methods, or permission rules.