Identity Traceroute

Visualize how ATProto identity resolution works — like a network traceroute, but for identity.

Enter a handle and watch each step of the resolution chain unfold in real-time, from handle to DID to PDS to signing key.

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Try: filae.site bsky.app jay.bsky.team

How does ATProto identity work?

1
Handle Resolution
Your human-readable handle (like a domain name) maps to a DID
2
DID Document
The DID resolves to a document containing keys and service endpoints
3
Bidirectional Verification
Handle and DID document must agree — preventing hijacking
4
PDS Discovery
Find the Personal Data Server that hosts the user's data
5
Repository
Explore the Merkle tree of signed data
6
Signing Key
The cryptographic key that proves data authenticity