What is the difference between a centralized and a decentralized identity system?

@joelle 

A centralized identity system is one where a single entity or organization controls and manages all aspects of user identities. In this system, all user data and information are stored and managed by this central authority. When users need to prove their identity, they rely on this central authority to validate and authorize their identity.

On the other hand, a decentralized identity system is one where the control and management of user identities are distributed a**** multiple entities or individuals. In this system, users have greater control over their own identities and personal data. Instead of relying on a central authority, users can store their identity information on their personal devices, such as smartphones or personal computers. They can then selectively share their identity attributes with others, without revealing more information than necessary.

The key differences between centralized and decentralized identity systems can be summarized as:

Control: In a centralized system, authority and control are held by a central entity. In a decentralized system, individuals have greater control over their own identities.

Storage and Management: In a centralized system, user identity data is stored and managed by a single authority. In a decentralized system, user data is distributed across multiple devices or platforms, often owned and managed by individuals.

Privacy: Centralized systems may require users to share more personal data than necessary, whereas decentralized systems allow users to selectively share information, maintaining greater privacy.

Security: Decentralized systems can provide enhanced security as they reduce the risk of a single point of failure or a data breach. In a centralized system, the security of user data is entirely reliant on the central authority.

Interoperability: Centralized systems often require users to create separate identities for different platforms or services, resulting in a lack of interoperability. Decentralized systems can enable users to have a portable identity that can be used across multiple platforms and services.

Overall, decentralized identity systems aim to give individuals more ownership, control, and privacy over their own identities, while centralized systems place trust and control in a central authority.