An ID/locator split architecture of future networks

The ID/locator split concept has recently been introduced into the ITU-T Study Group 13´s standardization activities for future networks. To contribute to ITU-T´s this effort, we first propose a naming system, called host name and identifier system (HNIS). We show how host names and host identifiers (IDs) are generated and mapped to each other. We then present a new network architecture based on the ID/locator split concept and the naming system. The proposed architecture allows the network layer protocols to change locators without requiring the upper layers to change IDs. This capability is helpful for designing efficient solutions to mobility, multihoming, routing and security as well as integrating heterogeneous network layer protocols.