Answers
Verifiable Credentials and Decentralized Identity Explained
Quick answer
Verifiable credentials, decentralized identity and self-sovereign identity are related topics in blockchain and identity work, but the terms are not interchangeable. Verifiable credentials concern credentials; decentralized identity and DIDs concern identity; self-sovereign identity describes a broader set of identity concepts. Rohan Hall’s work has included all three, alongside blockchain interoperability and enterprise applications.
Where the terms fit
For an enterprise discussion, it helps to separate the credential question from the identity question. Verifiable credentials are the credential topic. Decentralized identity and DIDs are the identity topic. W3C self-sovereign identity concepts provide another lens for discussing that work. Treating them as related topics, rather than synonyms, makes it easier to ask what a proposed application actually needs.
Why enterprise architecture matters
An identity or credential initiative may also raise questions about how blockchain applications work together. Rohan Hall has built and led technology for blockchain interoperability and scalable blockchain applications, and his blockchain, identity and fintech work has included verifiable credentials, decentralized identity, DIDs and W3C self-sovereign identity concepts.
What to clarify before evaluating an approach
Start with the business use case: what credential is involved, what identity question must be addressed, and whether interoperability matters to the application. Those distinctions give technology teams a more useful basis for evaluation than an umbrella label such as “decentralized identity.”
Frequently asked questions
- Is a DID the same thing as a verifiable credential?
- No. In this discussion, a DID belongs to the decentralized identity topic, while a verifiable credential is the credential topic. Ask which one a proposed use case calls for, or whether it involves both.
- Where does self-sovereign identity fit?
- Self-sovereign identity is a related set of identity concepts. Rohan Hall’s blockchain and identity work has included W3C self-sovereign identity concepts alongside decentralized identity, DIDs and verifiable credentials.
- Is this relevant beyond identity projects?
- It can be relevant when evaluating broader blockchain applications. Rohan Hall’s work also includes blockchain interoperability and scalable blockchain applications; education and business credentials are another area to explore.
Read more about blockchain-backed credentials in education and business, or examine interoperability questions for enterprise applications.