inetype

Inetype is a term used in some computing contexts to denote a generic data type for internet identifiers. It is not part of a single universal standard, and its exact structure can vary by implementation. Broadly, inetype refers to a structured value capable of representing network endpoints, including IP addresses (IPv4 and IPv6), domain names, ports, and sometimes URIs or socket endpoints. The purpose is to standardize validation, parsing, and serialization of network endpoints within software libraries, databases, or configuration formats.

Typically, an inetype value comprises fields such as an address family (for example AF_IPV4, AF_IPV6, or AF_UNSPEC), the address in a canonical form, and optional metadata such as a port number, a scope identifier for IPv6, or protocol information. It may be stored in binary form or as a compact textual representation. Parsing rules usually support common notations like 192.0.2.1, 2001:db8::1, example.com:80, or URIs and other endpoint specifications.

Validation and normalization are key aspects of inetype usage. Validation checks ensure syntactic correctness, enforce valid address families, and verify port ranges (0–65535). Normalization can include converting to a canonical textual form, resolving hostnames to addresses, and handling IPv6 zone identifiers.

Common use cases include network libraries that pass around endpoints, databases that index network locations, and security or routing configurations that specify criteria based on endpoints. See also IP address, URI, URL, hostname, and port. Etymology: a blend of “internet” and “type” to describe a generic endpoint data type.