RFC 2717 (rfc2717) - Page 2 of 10
Registration Procedures for URL Scheme Names
Alternative Format: Original Text Document
RFC 2717 Registration Procedures for URL Scheme Names November 1999
1.1 Notation
The key words "MUST", "MUST NOT", "REQUIRED", "SHALL", "SHALL NOT",
"SHOULD", "SHOULD NOT", "RECOMMENDED", "MAY", and "OPTIONAL" in this
document are to be interpreted as described in RFC 2119.
2.0 URL Scheme Name Registration Trees
2.1 General
In order to increase the efficiency and flexibility of the URL scheme
name registration process, the need is recognized for multiple
registration "trees". The registration requirements and specific
registration procedures for each tree differ, allowing the overall
registration procedure to accommodate the different natural
requirements for URL schemes. For example, a scheme that will be
recommended for wide support and implementation by the Internet
community requires a more complete review than a scheme intended to
be used for resources associated with proprietary software.
The first step in registering a new URL scheme name is to determine
which registration tree the scheme should be registered in.
Determination of the proper registration tree is based on the
intended use for the new scheme and the desired syntax for the scheme
name.
This document will discuss in detail the tree that reflects current
practice, under IETF ownership and control. It will also set forth
an outline to assist authors in creating new trees to address
differing needs for wide acceptance and interoperability, ease of
creation and use, and type and "strength" of ownership.
2.2 The IETF Tree
The IETF tree is intended for URL schemes of general interest to the
Internet community. The tree exists for URL schemes that require a
substantive review and approval process. It is expected that
applicability statements for particular applications will be
published from time to time that recommend implementation of, and
support for, URL schemes that have proven particularly useful in
those contexts.
Petke & King Best Current Practice