RFC 1015 (rfc1015) - Page 1 of 24
Implementation plan for interagency research Internet
Alternative Format: Original Text Document
Network Working Group Barry M. Leiner
Request for Comments: 1015 RIACS
July 1987
Implementation Plan for Interagency Research Internet
STATUS OF THIS MEMO
The RFC proposes an Interagency Research Internet as the natural
outgrowth of the current Internet. This is an "idea paper" and
discussion is strongly encouraged. Distribution of this memo is
unlimited.
OVERVIEW
Networking has become widespread in the scientific community, and
even more so in the computer science community. There are networks
being supported by a number of the Federal agencies interested in
scientific research, and many scientists throughout the country have
access to one or more of these networks. Furthermore, there are many
resources (such as supercomputers) that are accessible via these
networks.
While many of these networks are interconnected on an informal
basis, there is currently no consistent mechanism to allow sharing
of the networking resources. Recognizing this problem, the FCCSET
Committee on Very High Performance Computing formed a Network
Working Group. This group has recommended an administrative and
management structure for interconnecting the current and planned
agency networks supporting research. The structure is based on the
concept of a network of networks using standard networking
protocols.
This report elaborates on the earlier recommendation and provides an
implementation plan. It addresses three major areas; communications
infrastructure, user support, and ongoing research. A management and
administrative structure is recommended for each area, and a
budgetary estimate provided. A phased approach for implementation
is suggested that will quickly provide interconnection and lead to
the full performance and functionality as the required technologies
are developed and installed. While this report addresses the
interconnection of agency networks, and cooperation by certain
federal agencies, some discussion is presented of the possible role
that industry can play in support and use of such a network.
Work reported herein was supported by Cooperative Agreement NCC 2-
387 from the National Aeronautics and Space Adminstration (NASA) to
Leiner