DEN aims to transform a network from a passive assemblage of devices for routing traffic into an active alliance of cooperating devices that intelligently provide services based on individual user identity. The brainchild of Cisco Fellow John Strassner, DEN enables clients to use their authenticated network logon to access personalized services without acquainting themselves with network esoterica.
Service providers benefit from per-user provisioning of advanced networking services.
For both service providers and enterprises, DEN simplifies the centralized management of network resources and protects mission-critical traffic. Application developers can use standard tools to create network-aware applications. More information on CIM is available from the DMTF on line. Network managers can use Diff-Serv to take advantage of these services and deploy other advanced applications. The Assured Forwarding PHB is defined in RFC 2597, co-authored by IETF Chair and Cisco Fellow Fred Baker.