RFC 2971 (rfc2971) - Page 1 of 8


IMAP4 ID extension



Alternative Format: Original Text Document



Network Working Group                                        T. Showalter
Request for Comments: 2971                                Mirapoint, Inc.
Category: Standards Track                                    October 2000


                           IMAP4 ID extension

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 (2000).  All Rights Reserved.

Abstract

   The ID extension to the Internet Message Access Protocol - Version
   4rev1 (IMAP4rev1) protocol allows the server and client to exchange
   identification information on their implementation in order to make
   bug reports and usage statistics more complete.

1. Introduction

   The IMAP4rev1 protocol described in [IMAP4rev1] provides a method for
   accessing remote mail stores, but it provides no facility to
   advertise what program a client or server uses to provide service.
   This makes it difficult for implementors to get complete bug reports
   from users, as it is frequently difficult to know what client or
   server is in use.

   Additionally, some sites may wish to assemble usage statistics based
   on what clients are used, but in an an environment where users are
   permitted to obtain and maintain their own clients this is difficult
   to accomplish.

   The ID command provides a facility to advertise information on what
   programs are being used along with contact information (should bugs
   ever occur).








Showalter                   Standards Track