Internet Request For Comments (RFC)

The Internet Request For Comments (or RFC) documents are the written definitions of the protocols and policies of the Internet. This page provides entry points to get at the RFCs.

New Internet User FAQ: Frequently asked questions (and answers!) for new Internet users.
Experienced Internet User FAQ: Frequently asked questions for the experienced Internet user.
Hitchhiker's Guide: The Hitchkiker's Guide to the Internet.
Gold in the nets: Jerry Martin's handy reference to on-line information.
Bibliography: A bibliography of items that may be of interest to Internet users.
Internet Glossary: An adaptation of "The INTEROP Pocket Glossary of Networking Terms".
Internet Protocols: A list of the official Internet Protocols.
Assigned Numbers: A list of the numbers used in various protocols.
Internet Numbers: A list of the addresses assigned to organizations.
By Subject (old): This is an old listing of RFCs, sorted topically. I think it was last updated in 1986, but its still very useful for references to the basic protocols we know and love (IP, Telnet, FTP, SMTP and etc.)
Keyword search: Search the text of the RFCs.
Index: A listing of all of the RFCs, listed by number, with titles and authors. This is very, very long and takes a long time to format and retrieve. Be patient.
Responsibilities of Host and Net Managers: A summary of the "oral traditions" that apply to systems management.
Requirements for Internet Hosts - Communication Layer: Requirements for Internet host software for the communications protocols layers (link, IP and transport layers).
Requirements for Internet Hosts - Applications and Support: Requirements for Internet host software for the applications and support protocols.
Guidelines for the Secure Operation of the Internet: As the title says, this document suggests some guidelines for the secure operation of the Internet.
Site Security Handbook: A guide to setting computer security policies and procedures for Internet sites.