Method and machine for validating an identifier as unique

摘要

A method (200) and machine for validating that an identifier is unique within an ad-hoc network (100) of machines. The method comprises obtaining the identifier (220) and then sending a claim request for the identifier to machines in the network (100). Thereafter a step validating the identifier as unique is effected only if an invalidation message is not received within a predefined time period. The invalidation message is indicative of the identifier already being allocated to one of the machines in the network (100).