Autoconfiguration

Autoconfiguration is used primarily to describe the automatic configuration of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. However, it can also be used to describe the automatic configuration of other network services, such as setting up gateways and routes, or service discovery.

NRL Code 5520 performs research in the area of autoconfiguration, particularly in mobile, wireless networking environments such as MANETs, which pose many unique problems for traditional autoconfiguration methods, due to the unreliable, multi-hop nature of such networks. We have experience in autoconfiguration for both IPv4 and IPv6, using both stateful (e.g. DHCP) and stateless autoconfiguration methods.

Autoconfiguration Tools

• DHCP Exit Hooks for Windows XP allows programs to be run once an address has been configured, and also supports restarting the programs if the IP address changes.

Autoconfiguration Resources

• Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) RFC
• ISC DHCP Implementation
• Stateless Autoconfiguration for IPv6 RFC
• IETF MANET Autoconf Working Group

If you are interested in more information about Autoconfiguration, please contact autoconf@pf.itd.nrl.navy.mil