Subscriber

An entity or system that registers to receive information or services from a publisher or provider.

Description

In the context of Non-Human Identities (NHIs), a 'Subscriber' refers to a digital entity or automated system that actively engages with a service or platform to receive updates, notifications, or data. Subscribers can be bots, algorithms, or other automated systems that subscribe to data feeds, APIs, or messaging services for real-time information. This concept is critical in various domains such as the Internet of Things (IoT), where devices may subscribe to receive alerts or updates from a central server, or in cloud computing environments where services communicate through subscription patterns to maintain efficiency. Subscribers do not have personal identities like humans; instead, they are defined by their operational roles and the interactions they have with other entities within a network. Their functionality is vital for enabling seamless communication and data flow in automated processes, ensuring that the right information reaches the right system at the right time.

Examples

  • An IoT sensor that subscribes to a weather service API for real-time climate data.
  • A chat bot that subscribes to a messaging platform to receive user inquiries and respond automatically.

Additional Information

  • Subscribers can enhance system efficiency by reducing the need for constant polling.
  • In many systems, subscribers can choose to unsubscribe, allowing them to control the flow of information.

References