1. Introduction
The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) [1] provides a framework for passing configuration information to hosts on a TCP/IP network. Configuration parameters and other control information are carried in tagged data items that are stored in the 'options' field of the DHCP message. The data items themselves are also called "options" [2].
DHCP protocol messages are identified by the 'DHCP Message Type' option (option code 51). Each message type is defined by the data value carried in the 'DHCP Message Type' option.
This document describes the procedure for defining new DHCP options and message types. The procedure will guarantee that:
- allocation of new option numbers and message type numbers is coordinated from a single authority,
- new options and message types are reviewed for technical correctness and appropriateness, and
- documentation for new options and message types is complete and published.
As indicated in, "Guidelines for Writing an IANA Considerations Section in RFCs", (see references), IANA acts as a central authority for assignment of numbers such as DHCP option and message type codes. The new procedure outlined in this document will provide guidance to IANA in the assignment of new option and message type codes.