Repository source: docs/plans/archive/post_public_key_link_step1_solution_assessment.md
Post Public Key Link Step 1 Solution Assessment
Problem Statement
Users need post pages to show a link to the author's public key file when available. Source: thread-20260826052458-b25eef3d, submitted 2026-08-26T05:24:58Z.
Option A: Add a public-key link to post metadata
Pros:
Directly visible where the user expects it.
Helps verify signed authorship.
Small user-facing addition.
Cons:
Could clutter compact post metadata.
Needs clear absence behavior for anonymous or legacy unsigned posts.
Option B: Link only from profile pages
Pros:
Keeps post pages cleaner.
Groups identity details in one place.
Cons:
Adds an extra click from the post.
Does not satisfy the requested page-level visibility.
Option C: Add a verification details panel
Pros:
Can include signature, key, and trust status together.
More complete identity audit surface.
Cons:
Larger UI scope than a link.
Needs more product decisions.
Recommendation
Recommend Option A.
Brief justification:
A direct public-key link on signed post pages solves the immediate verification need without building a larger identity panel first.