Nonforward

Nonforward is a term used in certain technical contexts to describe a characteristic in which information, signals, or traffic are not propagated beyond a defined boundary or recipient. The term is not a single standardized concept; its precise meaning depends on the domain.

In computer networking, nonforwarding refers to configurations or devices that do not forward packets to other networks. This can occur by design in isolated hosts, by disabling IP forwarding on a router, or by applying access-control rules that drop packets at an edge.

In messaging and document management, nonforwarding describes policies or features that prevent recipients from forwarding content to others. Such policies are used to protect privacy and ensure compliance, and may be implemented via client settings, policy wrappers, or secure messaging platforms.

In data processing and workflow systems, nonforwarding denotes constraints that prevent data or tasks from being automatically re-routed to alternate processing paths, supporting strict data governance and auditability.

Origin and usage: The term derives from the negation of forward and is usually encountered in manuals, policy documents, or product specifications rather than as a formal technical term. Its interpretation should be inferred from context.

See also: forwarding; do-not-forward; non-forwarding policy.