Internet Identity is a blockchain authentication system for the Internet Computer that allows users to access dapps (decentralized applications) on the Internet Computer securely and anonymously.
Instead of using usernames and passwords, Internet Identity uses something called the WebAuthn API. Users can use a fingerprint sensor (such as TouchID) on a smartphone/laptop, a facial recognition (such as FaceID) system, or portable Hardware Security Module (HSM) such as a YubiKey or Ledger wallet to authenticate with a dapp.
With the aid of Internet Identity, users can create one or more identity “anchors” they can use to authenticate themselves with. These “anchors” are assigned to compatible cryptographically enabled devices.
Advantages of the Internet Identity
| Convenience | Internet Identity allows users to authenticate to dapps in a seamless manner without any hassles. |
| Cryptographic Security | Despite the low level of friction, Internet Identity offers the highest level of cryptographic security. |
| User Friendliness | Users do not have to manage cryptographic keys themselves, which prevents theft/mistakes. |
| Anonymity | Internet Identity is anonymizing towards dapps, meaning that the dapp only sees a generated pseudonym. |
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