RFC 954 (rfc954) - Page 1 of 4

NICNAME/WHOIS

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Network Working Group                               K. Harrenstien (SRI)
Request for Comments: 954                                 M. Stahl (SRI)
Obsoletes:  RFC 812                                     E. Feinler (SRI)
                                                            October 1985

                             NICNAME/WHOIS


STATUS OF THIS MEMO

   This RFC is the official specification of the NICNAME/WHOIS protocol.
   This memo describes the protocol and the service.  This is an update
   of RFC 812.  Distribution of this memo is unlimited.

INTRODUCTION

   The NICNAME/WHOIS Server is a TCP transaction based query/response
   server, running on the SRI-NIC machine (26.0.0.73 or 10.0.0.51), that
   provides netwide directory service to internet users.  It is one of a
   series of internet name services maintained by the DDN Network
   Information Center (NIC) at SRI International on behalf of the
   Defense Communications Agency (DCA).  The server is accessible across
   the Internet from user programs running on local hosts, and it
   delivers the full name, U.S. mailing address, telephone number, and
   network mailbox for DDN users who are registered in the NIC database.

   This server, together with the corresponding WHOIS Database can also
   deliver online look-up of individuals or their online mailboxes,
   network organizations, DDN nodes and associated hosts, and TAC
   telephone numbers.  The service is designed to be user-friendly and
   the information is delivered in human-readable format.  DCA strongly
   encourages network hosts to provide their users with access to this
   network service.

WHO SHOULD BE IN THE DATABASE

   DCA requests that each individual with a directory on an ARPANET or
   MILNET host, who is capable of passing traffic across the DoD
   Internet, be registered in the NIC WHOIS Database.  MILNET TAC users
   must be registered in the database.  To register, send via electronic
   mail to A your full name, middle initial, U.S.
   mailing address (including mail stop and full explanation of
   abbreviations and acronyms), ZIP code, telephone (including Autovon
   and FTS, if available), and one network mailbox.  Contact the DDN
   Network Information Center, A or (800) 235-3155,
   for assistance with registration.







Harrenstien & Stahl & Feinler
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