Towards self-configuration of IPv6 networks

Self-configuration of networks is the key to reducing operational costs and enhancing usability for inexperienced users. Various network technologies already perform self-configuration. For example, Ethernet is self-configuring. Since more and more networks are based on IP, and IP is used everywhere, IP routers must get to a state where they are plug-and-play as well. Naturally, this is not true for managed backbone or multi-service networks, but a high number of small to medium size businesses and home users do not want to deal with the hassle of configuring their networks and most of them are not able to. We propose a protocol for self-configuration of IPv6 networks.