EXTENSIBLE STORAGE OF NETWORK DEVICE IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

摘要

A method for dynamically storing network device identification information to allow for the easy addition of new fields as well as simple modification of identification fields. This method involves receiving the device identification information, determining the type and length of the device identification information, choosing one or more symbols to represent the type and length of the identification information, and storing the symbols as well as the identification information in a memory store associated with the device. Choosing the symbols may be accomplished by either choosing a single symbol to represent both the type and length of the identification information, or by utilizing a first symbol which represents the type of the information and a second symbol which represents the length. An extension address symbol may be used if it is not possible to find a symbol to represent the type and length of the identification information.