matrix-spec-proposals/proposals/2284-optional-identity-serv...

# MSC2284: Making the identity server optional during discovery

Currently the specification requires that clients `FAIL_ERROR` (hard failure - do not continue)
when the `.well-known` file for `m.identity_server` points to somewhere invalid or is invalid
itself.

This proposal aims to change that by allowing clients to make a conscious decision to continue
with the invalid identity server configuration, provided the homeserver configuration is valid.

## Proposal

Instead of `FAIL_ERROR` for an invalid `m.identity_server` schema/server, clients are to move
to the `FAIL_PROMPT` (inform the user, ask for input if applicable) state. Clients can decide
to show a warning that the identity server is unavailable and allow the user to continue with
the invalid (or client's default) configuration.

## Tradeoffs

Clients can end up being configured with an invalid or inoperable identity server. This is
considered a feature by this proposal to allow for less intelligent clients to have their
identity server disabled. Intelligent clients could interpret the lack of identity server
as the homeserver/user asking that identity server functionality be disabled in the client.
Assign number 5 years ago			`# MSC2284: Making the identity server optional during discovery`
Proposal to make the identity server optional during discovery 5 years ago
			Currently the specification requires that clients `FAIL_ERROR` (hard failure - do not continue)
			when the `.well-known` file for `m.identity_server` points to somewhere invalid or is invalid
			`itself.`

			`This proposal aims to change that by allowing clients to make a conscious decision to continue`
			`with the invalid identity server configuration, provided the homeserver configuration is valid.`

			`## Proposal`

			Instead of `FAIL_ERROR` for an invalid `m.identity_server` schema/server, clients are to move
			to the `FAIL_PROMPT` (inform the user, ask for input if applicable) state. Clients can decide
			`to show a warning that the identity server is unavailable and allow the user to continue with`
			`the invalid (or client's default) configuration.`

			`## Tradeoffs`

			`Clients can end up being configured with an invalid or inoperable identity server. This is`
			`considered a feature by this proposal to allow for less intelligent clients to have their`
			`identity server disabled. Intelligent clients could interpret the lack of identity server`
			`as the homeserver/user asking that identity server functionality be disabled in the client.`