> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs-v1.archipels.io/archipels-documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs-v1.archipels.io/archipels-documentation/welcome/glossary-of-terms.md).

# Glossary of terms

<https://timspeelman.nl/eidas/#A3(42)>

### **Authentication**:&#x20;

The process of verifying the identity of a user or device, often through credentials such as passwords, tokens, or cryptographic keys.

### **Blockchain**:&#x20;

A distributed ledger technology that records transactions across many computers so that the records cannot be altered retroactively without altering all subsequent blocks.

### **Decentralized Identity (DID)**:&#x20;

A digital identity that is controlled by the individual or organization to whom it belongs, rather than by a centralized authority.

### **Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT)**:&#x20;

A consensus of replicated, shared, and synchronized digital data spread across multiple sites, countries, or institutions.

### **Holder**:&#x20;

The individual or entity that possesses and controls a digital identity or verifiable credentials.

### **Identity Provider**:&#x20;

An entity that creates, maintains, and manages identity information while providing authentication services to other applications.

### **Immutable**:&#x20;

A characteristic of blockchain technology where once data has been recorded, it cannot be altered or deleted.

### **Interoperability**:&#x20;

The ability of different systems, platforms, or organizations to work together seamlessly without special effort from the user.

### **Issuer**:&#x20;

The entity that creates and issues digital credentials, attesting to certain attributes or rights of the holder.

### **Private Key**:&#x20;

A secure digital code known only to the owner, used to sign transactions or messages to prove ownership of a digital identity or asset.

### **Public Key**:&#x20;

A publicly disclosed code that corresponds to a private key, used to verify signatures or messages signed with the private key.

### **Revocation**:&#x20;

The process of invalidating a digital credential or key before its predetermined expiration date, often due to compromise or loss.

### **Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI)**:&#x20;

An approach to digital identity that gives individuals control over their personal data and how, when, and to whom it is disclosed.

### **Trust Anchor**:&#x20;

A trusted entity or authority in a network that validates credentials and identities, serves as a root of trust.

### **Trust Registry**:&#x20;

A decentralized registry that maintains a list of trusted entities (such as issuers and verifiers) in the SSI ecosystem, facilitating the verification of credentials and identities.

### **Verifiable Credential (VC)**:&#x20;

A digital statement made by an issuer about a holder, which can be verified using cryptographic techniques.

### **Verifier**:&#x20;

An entity that checks the validity of a digital credential presented by a holder.

### **Proof of Authority (PoA)**:&#x20;

A consensus mechanism in a blockchain network where transactions and blocks are validated by approved accounts, known as validators.

### **Identity Wallet**:&#x20;

A digital wallet that allows users to store and manage their digital identities and verifiable credentials securely.

### **Consensus Mechanism**:&#x20;

A process in blockchain technology used to achieve agreement on a single data value among distributed processes or systems.

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