What Is A Zero-Configuration Network?

Date First Published: 1st May 2022

Topic: Computer Networking

Subtopic: Network Setups

Article Type: Computer Terms & Definitions

Difficulty Level: 6/10

Learn more about what a zero-configuration network is in this article.

A zero-configuration network, also known as an autonet or a zeroconf is a network that requires no manual configuration of network services, such as DHCP, DNS, or other manual IP settings, allowing anyone without knowledge of networks to connect a device that will immediately work, as suggested in the name 'zero-configuration'. They are designed to make connecting to a network quick and easy for users and are often used in home and small business network setups, where it is difficult to set up a normal IP network or where there is limited knowledge of how to set up a network. A usable network is automatically created based on the TCP/IP protocol suite when devices are connected to each other.

The technologies that a zero-configuration network is built on include:

• Automatic assignment of IP addresses for devices.
• Automatic resolution of domain names to IP addresses.
• Automatic location of network services, such as printing devices.

Examples

AppleTalk was an early example of a zero-configuration LAN system. In the 1980s, this protocol was introduced for early Mac computers. It was possible for Macs as well as supported devices to be added by plugging them in. All configuration was automated. A protocol, called AppleTalk Address Resolution Protocol was used to automatically select IP addresses for each device.