[NCSA-discuss] Host naming convention

[Boone_Dave at emc.com]

Hi Steve, et al,

This is a matter of opinion, and to some extent diplomacy.  Here is my opinion, FWIW.

A) hostnames and domain names are designed to give human meaning to otherwise meaningless info (IP addresses).  To that regard, I believe it makes sense to add some type of meaningful info to the hostname, even if it's just to help you remember which system is which.  "I'm working on 'mickey-mouse' and Joe is in charge of 'pluto'."  So, in that regard, I'm in favor of putting useful info in the hostname.

B) I'm not fond of super-long hostnames.  If there's too much info crammed in it, I'd rather use the IP addresses.  

C) Are the hostnames to be used by IT staff only, or would the names be distributed to end users?  For end users, I would recommend using hostnames that are memorable and offer insight into its purpose.  For example, 'payroll.domain.com' and 'announce.domain.com' might be more useful names than 'lnx-ora01-dell1850-vm04.domain.com'.

D) Who will you alienate with your decision?  The boss or the summer intern?  :-)

Just my 2¢.

Thanks,
Dave

-----Original Message-----
From: ncsa-discussion-bounces at ncsysadmin.org [mailto:ncsa-discussion-bounces at ncsysadmin.org] On Behalf Of Steve.Clark at wolseley.com
Sent: Tuesday, June 10, 2008 11:12 AM
To: ncsa-discussion at ncsysadmin.org
Subject: [NCSA-discuss] Host naming convention

We are going through a review of host naming conventions and it has
sparked some lively discussions between architecture, design, and
operations.  To break it down simply here; one side proposes an ultimate
in generic approach with no meaning attached to the name where all
pertinent information is contained within a configuration database
(CMDB). Any process would use the CMDB to drive meaning into host; the
2nd side proposes using some meaning even if it means that not all
pertinent information can be contained within the host name. i.e. It's
valuable to know that you are working on a test LINUX machine right from
the name. 

The number of nodes is from 100's to 1000's depending on area. 

I'm curious to know what has worked from your perspective. 

Thanks. 
Steve 


Steve Clark
Infrastructure Development
Information & Process - Global Service Delivery Wolseley * 8020 Arco
Corporate Drive * Raleigh * NC * 27617
T: +1 (919) 431 1075 * F: +1 (919) 431 1198 * M: +1 (919) 427 5508
www.wolseley.com 

Wolseley plc registered office Parkview 1220 Arlington Business Park *
Theale Nr Reading * RG7 4GA * United Kingdom Registration No. 29846
England

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