W3C publishes candidate standard for decentralized digital identifiers

The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has published Decentralised Identifiers (DIDs) v1.1 as a Candidate Recommendation Snapshot, marking an important step toward standardising a new approach to digital identity.

Digital identifiers are commonly used online to represent individuals, organisations, or devices. Traditionally, these identifiers are issued and controlled by central authorities such as governments, social media platforms, or online service providers. Decentralised identifiers propose a different model. Instead of relying on a single authority, they allow individuals or organisations to create and manage their own identifiers directly.

The DID v1.1 specification defines the technical structure of these identifiers and their operation. It describes the syntax for creating a DID, the data model that stores associated information, and the mechanisms for resolving a DID to resources that confirm who controls it. The specification also explains how operations such as creating, updating, or deactivating identifiers should function.

According to W3C, decentralised identifiers are designed to support verifiable digital identity while reducing dependence on central identity providers or certificate authorities. This means a person or organisation can prove control over their identifier without needing permission from another entity.

The publication as a Candidate Recommendation signals that the specification is considered technically mature and ready for broader testing and implementation. The W3C Decentralised Identifier Working Group is inviting public feedback on the document until 5 April 2026, after which the standard may progress toward final approval.