RFC 2486 (rfc2486) - Page 1 of 8

The Network Access Identifier

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Network Working Group                                         B. Aboba
Request for Comments: 2486                                   Microsoft
Category: Standards Track                                   M. Beadles
                                            WorldCom Advanced Networks
                                                          January 1999


                     The Network Access Identifier

Status of this Memo

   This document specifies an Internet standards track protocol for the
   Internet community, and requests discussion and suggestions for
   improvements.  Please refer to the current edition of the "Internet
   Official Protocol Standards" (STD 1) for the standardization state
   and status of this protocol.  Distribution of this memo is unlimited.

Copyright Notice

   Copyright (C) The Internet Society (1999).  All Rights Reserved.

1.  Abstract

   In order to enhance the interoperability of roaming and tunneling
   services, it is desirable to have a standardized method for
   identifying users.  This document proposes syntax for the Network
   Access Identifier (NAI), the userID submitted by the client during
   PPP authentication. It is expected that this will be of interest for
   support of roaming as well as tunneling.  "Roaming capability" may be
   loosely defined as the ability to use any one of multiple Internet
   service providers (ISPs), while maintaining a formal, customer-vendor
   relationship with only one.  Examples of where roaming capabilities
   might be required include ISP "confederations" and ISP-provided
   corporate network access support.

2.  Introduction

   Considerable interest has arisen recently in a set of features that
   fit within the general category of "roaming capability" for dialup
   Internet users.  Interested parties have included:

        Regional Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operating within a
        particular state or province, looking to combine their efforts
        with those of other regional providers to offer dialup service
        over a wider area.






Aboba & Beadles             Standards Track
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