Federated Identity

A system that allows users to use the same identification data across multiple domains or services.

Description

Federated Identity in the context of Non-Human Identities (NHIs) refers to the framework where various entities, such as devices, applications, or services, can authenticate and communicate with each other using a common identity management system. This system enables NHIs to access resources across different platforms without needing multiple credentials or identity management processes. For instance, a smart device might use a federated identity system to authenticate itself to various services, such as cloud storage or analytics services, using a single digital identity. This enhances security and simplifies management, as identities can be centrally managed while allowing for decentralized access. The federated identity model is particularly useful in environments where NHIs need to interact seamlessly across various ecosystems, ensuring that identity verification processes are efficient and secure while maintaining the integrity and privacy of non-human actors in digital transactions.

Examples

  • A smart thermostat that uses a federated identity to connect to various home automation systems.
  • An IoT device that authenticates itself to a cloud service using a single identity token.

Additional Information

  • Federated identity systems often use protocols like SAML, OAuth, or OpenID Connect.
  • These systems help reduce the complexity of identity management for NHIs, allowing for easier integration and interoperability.

References