OpenID

Writen by MrSpandex
Posted on the 31st of January, 2008
Rating: 2
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As I've never actually written an article here, I figured it would be best to start now that I plan to re-write the site in stages. One of the planned improvements will be the implementation of OpenID. For those that don't know (and I know thats all 3 of you), Open ID is a decentralized login system. What does that mean for you?

Most importantly, it means that one logon will work on any and all sites that implement OpenID. You simply register once with any OpenID provider, and you use the URL they give you on any site. Once you enter this URL on some site, the site directs you to the proveder to provide a password or other authentication method. After which, you are sent back to the other site, along with the standard personal information web sites like to know about. (name, email, etc.)

Up to this point, you probably haven't thought of this from a security perspective. OpenID means your information is in only one place. Not only does this inherently protect you from any screw-ups from unprofessional web admins (Hey, I'm not THAT bad...), but you also have control of all your log ons from one point. You can set your log on to expire, to only work once, and so on. Even the personal information associated with your account can be controlled.

Of course, after all this, you probably want to sign up. I suggest myOpenID as a provider, but a simple google search will turn up dozens. Sign up today and get the username you want.