decentralized identifier

Definition

Decentralized identifiers (DID) are a new type of identifier that enables verifiable, decentralized digital identity. A DID refers to any subject (e.g., a person, organization, thing, data model, abstract entity, etc.) as determined by the controller of the DID.
Source W3C.org.

Relation to federated identifiers

In contrast to typical, federated identifiers, DIDs have been designed so that they may be decoupled from centralized registries, identity providers, and certificate authorities. Specifically, while other parties might be used to help enable the discovery of information related to a DID, the design enables the controller of a DID to prove control over it without requiring permission from any other party.
Source W3C.org.

Technical presence

DIDs are URIs that associate a DID subject with a DID document allowing trustable interactions associated with that subject.
Source W3C.org.