The American technology multinational Microsoft Corp. has launched a beta version of its open source network of decentralized identifiers (DID) on the main Bitcoin network . Called ION, it is designed to bring back control of personal information from centralized entities to individuals.

Microsoft DID uses Bitcoin network

The tech giant explained its decentralized identifiers as a technical component "that makes decentralized identity possible." He pointed out that companies and other entities generate and control the centralized identifiers used today, such as usernames, e-mail addresses, etc. ).

On the other hand, DID will be owned and controlled by the individual and will operate independently from centralized parties and trusted intermediaries, including Microsoft.

DID is a business project that took its first steps in 2016. As the concept matured over time, Microsoft explored different blockchain options before the company decided to entrust the Bitcoin network to ION.

"We are delighted to see ION making the jump to the main Bitcoin network for its public beta version. ION is an open, public and unauthorized “Layer 2” network built on open-source code that anyone can view, run and contribute.

ION does not rely on special utility tokens, approved validation nodes, or additional consensus mechanisms; the deterministic progression of Bitcoin's linear block timeline is the only consensus it needs. - reads the advertisement.

Collaborators who will run nodes and provide feedback on the beta phase include the U.S. cryptocurrency exchange Gemini and the blockchain payment processor BitPay.

Current situation and future developments

While still in beta, users can "create their own DIDs and use self-issued OpenID DID authentication to authenticate to the sites, applications and services that are implementing the specification project". Businesses and other entities can also develop DIDs, associate them cryptographically with web domains, and deliver verifiable credentials to users.

Microsoft also noted that the switch to the main Bitcoin network is a "major step in the march towards a final version v1". From there, the project aims to develop the community of first users, code contributors and node operators to improve the implementation of the ION reference.

The statement also said the final version will arrive later this year. After its launch, the company aspires to contribute to the decentralization of the field because "everyone has the right to own and control their digital identity".