RFC 1149 (IP over Avian Carriers)

networkingops culture

An April Fools' RFC from 1990 that specifies carrying IP datagrams by homing pigeon.

RFC 1149 defines encoding datagrams on paper wrapped around a pigeon's leg, with a straight-faced discussion of packet loss and latency. In 2001 the Bergen Linux User Group actually implemented it, pinging a host across town with a measured loss of four packets in nine and multi-hour round-trip times.

Also known as: IP over Avian Carriers, pigeon protocol, avian carriers, CPIP

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