Not having an implementation on its
own, the Identity Metasystem does not aim to substitute for existing
systems. It actually needs them because they provide the
implementation fabric it lacks.
We solve the pluralism
dilemma by
adding a level of
abstraction. A system
of systems can
embrace new and
existing systems
The Metasystem
abstracts away
concepts that are
common to all
identity systems but
which are often
implemented
differently
112 Hints Toward a Solution
This solution enables applying what we have learned about
correct identity management without compromises because we
don??™t have to worry about legacy features we need to maintain
for the sake of technology. At the same time, the solution invites
present and future technologies to participate. By concentrating
on the fundamental principles of identity management and leaving
the details to single solutions, it is impervious to technological
dependencies that would limit its scope and its expected life.
This simple idea has beautiful implications and de?¬?nes the very
physical laws of the universe in which Windows CardSpace is
meant to operate. The remainder of the current section
describes in depth the Identity Metasystem, introducing
many concepts and ideas that are key to understanding the
technology.
Pages:
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201