Internet Identity

Internet Identity (II) is a secure, passwordless authentication system built on the Internet Computer. This guide explains how to link it to your Hello World DAO account.

What is Internet Identity?

Internet Identity is:

• Passwordless: Uses your device's security features instead of passwords
• Privacy-preserving: Creates unique identifiers for each site
• Secure: Built on blockchain technology
• Self-custody: You control your identity, not a company

How It Works

Instead of usernames and passwords, Internet Identity uses:

• Passkeys: Modern authentication using your device (fingerprint, face ID, or security key)
• Anchors: A unique number that represents your identity
• Device verification: Confirms you're signing in from an authorized device

Benefits of Linking II

Benefit	Description
No password to remember	Use biometrics or security keys
Enhanced security	Resistant to phishing and password theft
Quick login	Sign in with one touch/click
Self-custody	You own your identity

Linking Internet Identity

Prerequisites

Before linking:

1. You have an active Hello World DAO account
2. You're logged in to that account
3. You have a device that supports passkeys or a security key

Step-by-Step

1. Go to Account Settings

   • Click your profile icon
   • Select Settings

2. Navigate to Security

   • Click on Security or Authentication

3. Click "Link Internet Identity"

   • You'll be redirected to identity.ic0.app

4. Create or Use Existing II

   • New to II? Click "Create New" and follow the setup
   • Have an II? Enter your anchor number and authenticate

5. Authorize the Link

   • Review the connection request
   • Approve linking to Hello World DAO

6. Confirmation

   • You'll be returned to your settings
   • Internet Identity shows as linked

Creating a New Internet Identity

If you don't have an Internet Identity:

Step 1: Choose Authentication Method

Options include:

• Face ID / Touch ID (iPhone, Mac)
• Windows Hello (Windows)
• Fingerprint (Android, Chromebooks)
• Security Key (YubiKey, etc.)

Step 2: Set Up Your Device

1. Click "Create New"
2. Choose your authentication method
3. Complete the biometric verification
4. Your II anchor is created

Step 3: Save Your Anchor Number

Important

Write down your anchor number and store it safely. You'll need it to recover access if you lose your devices.

Step 4: Add Recovery Options

Set up recovery methods:

• Add additional devices
• Set up a recovery phrase
• Add a security key as backup

Signing In with Internet Identity

Once linked, you can sign in with II:

1. Go to helloworlddao.com
2. Click Log In
3. Click Sign in with Internet Identity
4. Enter your anchor number (or use saved anchor)
5. Authenticate with your device (biometric/security key)
6. You're logged in!

Managing Linked Devices

Adding Devices

To access your account from multiple devices:

1. Go to identity.ic0.app
2. Sign in with your anchor
3. Click "Add Device"
4. Follow the prompts on the new device

Removing Devices

If a device is lost or compromised:

1. Go to identity.ic0.app from a working device
2. Sign in with your anchor
3. Go to "Manage Devices"
4. Remove the compromised device

Unlinking Internet Identity

To remove II from your account:

1. Go to Account Settings
2. Navigate to Security
3. Find Internet Identity in linked methods
4. Click Unlink
5. Confirm the action

INFO

Make sure you have another way to log in (password or social login) before unlinking II.

Multi-Device Support

Syncing Across Devices

Your Internet Identity works across all linked devices:

• Sign in from any linked device
• Add new devices when needed
• Remove old devices you no longer use

Best Practices

1. Link at least 2 devices (for backup)
2. Add a security key as backup
3. Keep your anchor number saved securely
4. Regularly review linked devices

Troubleshooting

"Device Not Recognized"

• Make sure you're using a linked device
• Check your device's biometric settings
• Try adding the device again

"Anchor Not Found"

• Double-check the anchor number
• Verify you're entering it correctly
• Try recovery options if available

"Authentication Failed"

• Ensure biometrics are enabled on your device
• Clean your fingerprint sensor
• Try a different authentication method

Lost All Devices?

If you've lost access to all linked devices:

1. Use your recovery phrase (if set up)
2. Use a linked security key
3. Contact support as a last resort

Security Recommendations

1. Use multiple authentication methods - Don't rely on just one device
2. Enable recovery - Set up recovery phrases or security keys
3. Secure your anchor - Store your anchor number safely offline
4. Monitor devices - Regularly check which devices are linked

Learn More

• Official Internet Identity Guide
• Account Overview
• FAQ