DNS encoding of network names and other types

This RFC proposes two extensions to the Domain Name System:-A specific method for entering and retrieving RRs which map between network names and numbers.-Ideas for a general method for describing mappings between arbitrary identifiers and numbers. The method for mapping between network names and addresses is a proposed standard, the ideas for a general method are experimental. This RFC assumes that the reader is familiar with the DNS [RFC 1034, RFC 1035] and its use. The data shown is for pedagogical use and does not necessarily reflect the real Internet. Distribution of this memo is unlimited. 2. INTRODUCTION The DNS is extensible and can be used for a virtually unlimited number of data types, name spaces, etc. New type definitions are occasionally necessary as are revisions or deletions of old types (e.g., MX replacement of MD and MF [RFC 974]), and changes described in [RFC 973]. This RFC describes changes due to the general need to map between identifiers and values, and a specific need for network name support. Users wish to be able to use the DNS to map between network names and numbers. This need is the only capability found in HOSTS.TXT which is not available from the DNS. In designing a method to do this, there were two major areas of concern:-Several tradeoffs involving control of network names, the syntax of network names, backward compatibility, etc.-A desire to create a method which would be sufficiently general to set a good precedent for future mappings, for example, between TCP-port names and numbers, Mockapetris [Page 1]