Solana Wallets Meet Internet Computer: ic-siws Bridges the Gap

Developer Kristofer has introduced ic-siws, a project that enables Solana wallet-based authentication for applications built on the Internet Computer (ICP). The release marks a step toward greater interoperability between the two ecosystems, giving developers the tools to build apps that benefit from both Solana’s speed and ICP’s decentralised infrastructure.

With ic-siws, users can sign in to Internet Computer applications directly through their Solana wallets. The system generates a unique IC identity and secure session for each user, eliminating the need for multiple logins across platforms. It’s designed to make the process both smooth and secure — each session identity is application-specific, preventing cross-app identity misuse, while ensuring that the same Solana wallet always produces the same IC Principal.

Developers also have the flexibility to set timebound sessions for added control and security. A prebuilt identity provider canister makes integration straightforward, regardless of the application’s programming language.

The project includes three main components. The ic_siws Rust library allows for full control and customisation within canisters. The ic-siws-provider offers a ready-to-use, preconfigured canister for quick deployment. The ic-siws-js frontend library supports JavaScript and TypeScript environments, including React, Vue, Svelte and vanilla frameworks.

A set of demo apps showcases how ic-siws can be integrated across various frontend stacks, providing practical examples for developers who want to try it out.

ic-siws also has a sibling project, ic-siwe, which provides the same authentication model for Ethereum-based applications — another move towards a more connected multi-chain environment.

By enabling wallet-based sign-ins across ecosystems, Kristofer’s work is helping simplify how users and developers interact with decentralised applications. It brings Solana’s user base closer to the Internet Computer and opens the door for new kinds of cross-chain web3 experiences.