Distribution of this memo is unlimited. In order to easily distinguish between multiple computers, we give them names. Experience has taught us that it is as easy to choose bad names as it is to choose good ones. This essay presents guidelines for deciding what makes a name good or bad. Introduction As soon as you deal with more than one computer, you need to distinguish between them.
Computers also have to be able to distinguish between themselves.
How the name is actually dereferenced by a human or computer need not concern us here. Here are some guidelines on what NOT to do. Page 2 Don't overload other terms already in common use. Using a word that has strong semantic implications in the current context will cause confusion. This is especially true in conversation where punctuation is not obvious and grammar is often incorrect.