IABIRTF

The IABIRTF, or Internet Architecture Board Research and Development Support Activity, is a program established by the Internet Architecture Board (IAB). Its primary purpose is to identify and foster research and development activities that are crucial for the future evolution of the Internet. The IABIRTF acts as a bridge between the research community and the Internet standards development process.

This activity focuses on areas that require significant research effort and long-term vision, often addressing topics that are not yet mature enough for standardization but are considered vital for the Internet's continued growth and improvement. It aims to encourage exploration of new technologies, protocols, and architectural concepts.

The IABIRTF operates by identifying promising research areas, facilitating discussions, and sometimes supporting workshops or reports that highlight key research challenges and opportunities. It does not directly conduct research but rather seeks to stimulate and guide it by making researchers aware of important architectural needs and by helping to connect researchers with relevant standards bodies. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the Internet's architecture remains robust, scalable, and capable of supporting future innovations.