Zeroconf

Short for zero configuration IP networking, a method of networking devices via an Ethernet cable without requiring configuration and administration. Zeroconf is able to allocate addresses without a DHCP server, translate between domain names and IP addresses without a DNS server, and find services, such as a printer, without a directory service. The technology is intended for use in small networking situations where there is a low-security need and where it is inappropriate or impossible to establish a working IP network using traditional technologies, such as DHCP and DNS. For example, Zeroconf can be used to form an ad-hoc network to connect devices in a conference or meeting; to form a network in a home or small business; to form a network in spontaneous situations.