RFC 1746 (rfc1746) - Page 1 of 18
Ways to Define User Expectations
Alternative Format: Original Text Document
Network Working Group B. Manning
Request for Comments: 1746 ISI
Category: Informational D. Perkins
Houston ISD
December 1994
Ways to Define User Expectations
Status of this Memo
This memo provides information for the Internet community. This memo
does not specify an Internet standard of any kind. Distribution of
this memo is unlimited.
Abstract
This paper covers basic fundamentals that must be understood when one
defines, interprets, or implements methods to control user
expectations on or over the Internet.
1. Background
User agreements are a form of acceptable use policy (AUP) are an
implicit part of internetworking since they place parameters on user
expectation. They define the desired and expected behaviour of those
who participate. Everyone has one, whether published or not. This
applies to networks that provide transit paths for other networks as
well as end sites and the individual users that use systems. A
better understanding of an AUP, and how to formulate one seems to be
increasingly important as the global net encompases new environments
as varied as K12 schools and real-time systems. AUP's are used to
determine pricing, customer base, type and quality of service
metrics, and a host of other provider services.
2. Components of an Agreement
In defining your particular agreement there are three areas that must
be addressed. They are where you get service from, who your peers
are, and whom you provide service to. A good understanding of these
concepts will make or break the policies you formulate.
2.1 Where you get service from
Each entity gets its service from one or more other providers,
either a level three service, such as IP transit, or a level two
service, such as circuits. The provider of such services usually has
an policy in the form of an agreement or contract specifying terms
Manning & Perkins