Naming and addressing of objects without unique identifiers

The hierarchical naming scheme, a method for naming and addressing shared objects in large-scale distributed computer systems, is described. The scheme constructs global identifications (IDs) and addresses from locally unique ones. The IDs have relative representations that are translated if they are transmitted among naming contexts. This ensures uniqueness of IDs while preserving efficiency and availability. Methods that make the scheme suitable for mobile naming contexts and dynamic reconfiguration of networks and systems are reviewed. Implementation issues and solutions are presented