Computer networks can be very complex. Local subnetworks are often linked to each other or to a central computer center via WANs.
To allow all systems to communicate, a uniform and unique addressing mechanism for objects (i.e. systems, devices, and applications) is required throughout the entire network. However, this addressing mechanism depends on the protocols used. For this reason, BCAM supports the implementation of NEA, ISO, and TCP/IP addresses. The most important common denominator of these addressing schemes is the ability to create a hierarchical structure. This structure can have an organizational, application-related, technical, or geographic basis. The individual levels of this structure represent a subnetwork (group of end systems), an end system, and a station or application.
Processor name
The processor name identifies a computer in a network. The processor name must be unique throughout the network. The symbolic name of a computer can contain both the old addressing pattern and special functions of this computer.
Application name (station name)
The application name (previously station name) uniquely identifies a station or application within a processor. Applications can only be addressed symbolically at user interfaces. Because the application name is only unique within the processor, the logical or symbolic processor address is added to ensure uniqueness throughout the network, e.g. $DIALOG, HOST0011. The application name can comprise up to eight alphanumeric characters. System applications in the BS2000 host are identified by a $ character in the first position; for user applications, the $ character is not permitted in the first position of the name.