5G • 5G-Advanced (Rel-18)
Decentralized Identity (DID) in 5GC
Self-Sovereign Identity and Zero-Trust Verification for 5G-Advanced
Integrates W3C Decentralized Identifiers (DID) into 5GC authentication, allowing users and IoT devices to prove identity without exposing permanent IMSI/SUPI.
Technical Explanation
Traditional cellular authentication relies entirely on permanent SIM card identifiers (IMSI/SUPI) tied to central mobile operators. Rel-18 explores Decentralized Identifiers (DID) and verifiable credentials: devices present cryptographic zero-knowledge proofs to access network slices, preserving privacy and enabling seamless cross-operator private 5G roaming.
Key Functions
- Integrates W3C Decentralized Identifiers (DID) into 5G subscriber identity management
- Allows IoT devices and subscribers to authenticate without exposing permanent identity numbers
- Enables seamless, trustless roaming across private enterprise and public cellular networks
- Reinforces Zero-Trust network perimeters against core network subscriber database breaches
Specifications
3GPP TR 33.878, TS 23.501 (Rel-18)
Interfaces
N1 (NAS)NausfNudm
Related 5G Concepts
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