eName
An eName is a globally unique identifier that is a subset of W3ID. It is registered in the Registry and can be resolved to access information about the identifier, its owner/controller, and the resources it references.
Overview
While all W3IDs are UUID-based and globally unique, an eName is specifically registered in the Registry, making it resolvable to a service endpoint (typically an eVault). This resolution allows:
- Information about the identifier itself — metadata such as when it was created, its type, and current status
- Information about the owner/controller — who controls the eName, their public keys, and verification credentials
- The resource it references — the actual data or service (e.g., an eVault) associated with the eName
eName Characteristics
Key Characteristics
- Globally Unique: eNames use UUID v5 namespaces, ensuring uniqueness across the entire ecosystem
- Universally Resolvable: Through the Registry, any eName can be resolved to its service endpoint
- Owner-Bound: Each eName is associated with an owner (person, organization, or entity) who controls it
- Key-Bound: eNames can be bound to cryptographic public keys for signing and authentication
- Persistent: Once registered, an eName remains valid (subject to Registry policies)
eName vs W3ID
| Aspect | W3ID | eName |
|---|---|---|
| Format | @<UUID> | @<UUID> |
| Globally unique via Registry | No | Yes |
| Resolvable to service | No | Yes |
| Used in X-ENAME header | No | Yes (primary use) |
Usage in eVault
Every eVault is identified by an eName. When making API calls to eVault, the X-ENAME header must contain the eName of the vault owner:
X-ENAME: @e4d909c2-5d2f-4a7d-9473-b34b6c0f1a5a
The eName is used for:
- Access Control: Determining which vault data can be accessed
- Data Isolation: Ensuring users can only access their own data
- Resolution: Mapping the eName to the correct eVault service endpoint
Related
- W3ID — The full identifier system
- Binding Documents — Documents that tie users to their eNames
- Registry — Service for resolving eNames
- eVault — The storage system identified by eNames