Distributed ledger technology is the foundation for the next stage in the evolution of the internet

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    • Blockchain and Web 3.0

    An important fundamental technology and its applications

    Article: Distributed ledger technology is the foundation for the next stage in the evolution of the internet

    Blockchains are a proven approach to storing transactions in a distributed network in a way that ensures long-tern reliability and protection against tampering. Blockchains are the dominant form of distributed ledger technology (DLT), a system that uses cryptography and consensus algorithms to enable very large, volatile or even pseudonymous node networks.

    The information stored can be financial values (e.g. cryptocurrencies), business data (e.g. ownership) or private information (e.g. ticket verification codes). The future topics of self-sovereign identity (SSI) and Web3 make use of DLT mechanisms, as do state digital currencies. 

    At DB Systel, we have several years of experience in implementing DLT-based use cases and are continuing to work on making the benefits of this technology profitable to DB.

    Our use cases (extract)

    Passengers
    Freight transport (logistics)
    • Electronic bill of lading (eBL), see our overview publication
    • Seamless tracking and tracing of supply chains: processes within supply chains can be automated using smart contracts
    • Transport of dangerous goods can be documented with secure verification methods
    Infrastructure and operation
    Basic technologies
    "Blockchains and distributed ledger technology (DLT) can be found in many productive applications today, e.g. in identity solutions from Microsoft and in leading portals for managing electronic consignment notes. Based on our experience, we evaluate DLT-based products and make them usable for Deutsche Bahn."

    Dr Michael Kuperberg, Chief Architect Blockchains & DLT, DB Systel

    Profile picture Michael Kuperberg

    Our experience and skills

    In numerous in-house projects and market tests we were able to gather in-depth experience in DevSecOps of DLT and blockchains, including Hyperledger Fabric, Ethereum/Quorum, Hyperledger Indy/Aries, Hyperledger Caliper and R3 Corda. We have also trialled and evaluated numerous products, including Microsoft Entra Verified ID, uPort, Marco Polo and many more.

    In addition, we were or are consortium partners in several projects such as RailChain or IDunion and have contributed both research and implementation. 

    Focus on self-sovereign identity (SSI)

    Motivation and approach: does digital identity match the real world?

    Digital identities and credentials are essential for successful digitalisation at all levels. Use cases regarding organisations and companies, natural persons and objects (e.g. components) are of particular importance. By linking trustworthy digital records, we can automate manual verification processes and ensure greater efficiency in digital collaboration.The blockchain serves as the basic technology on which identity data and attributes are verified by means of encrypted data exchange. 

    Self-sovereign identity (SSI) – standardised self-determined identity as a forward-looking solution

    At DB Systel, we started working on the basic technologies for SSI at a very early stage. We are therefore ideally equipped for the introduction of EUDI wallets, a move that has been decided by law. We have prepared some of our findings as scientific publications:

    Self-sovereign identity (SSI)

    The new face of identity management

    Protect your data easily and effectively with self-sovereign identity.

    Read more
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    Thanks to our intensive engagement and experience with distributed ledger technology, we can help you to understand and apply it to your business models effectively. If you have any questions, we look forward to hearing from you.