Flexible autoconfigured domains for more scalable, efficient and robust battlefield networks

Splitting a network into independent domains can significantly improve network performance, for functions such as routing, configuration and security. Limiting domain size improves protocol scalability, survivability, and efficiency, particularly in more dynamic networks such as that envisioned in future battlefield networks. This paper describes our general framework for building autoconfigurable, hierarchical domains and how it can be applied to different types of networks: from simple IP and adhoc subnets, to large collections of nodes connected by bridges or routers. We also show how the domains can be split and merged as nodes and even whole networks move.