did:key

Specification: https://w3c-ccg.github.io/did-method-key/

The did:key method is a streamlined approach to Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) that enables direct use of public cryptographic keys to create DIDs, bypassing the need for a registry. This simplicity in implementation allows the benefits of DIDs to be realized without relying on more complex infrastructures, such as decentralized ledger technologies.

Advantages

  1. Simplicity: Did:key is user-friendly and straightforward to implement, making it a perfect choice for testing and simple applications.

  2. Independence from Blockchain: Did:key does not require interaction with a blockchain or other external systems, making it faster and more cost-effective.

  3. Self-Contained: The DID Document is derived directly from the DID itself, making it completely static and self-contained.

Disadvantages

  1. Lack of Dynamic Updates: Did:key DIDs are derived directly from the public key and cannot be updated. If the key is compromised, a new did:key must be created.

  2. Limited Use Cases: Owing to its static nature, did:key is unsuitable for complex applications that require updates or interaction with a blockchain or other external systems.

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