IEEE 802a:2003 (R2007)

Amendment Standard - Superseded.
IEEE Std 802-2001, IEEE Local and Metropolitan Area Networks: Overview and Architecture, provides an overview to the family of IEEE 802 Standards. This amendment to IEEE Std 802 identifies a set of Ethertypes that may be used for prototype and vendor specific use, and defines how the Ethertypes should be used.

Provision of a small number of Ethernet type values for prototype and experimental use. Provision of a mechanism for vendor assignment of protocol identifiers for use with proprietary protocols.
The existing Ethernet Type number space is a finite resource. In order to develop protocols that will use an Ethernet Type value as a protocol identifier, it is necessary for vendors to apply for type values from this limited number space, both for development purposes and for assignment to the final protocol. This can lead to wastage of the number space for no useful purpose. This amendment to IEEE Standard 802 will allow prototype and experimental protocols to be developed without consuming type values, and will also provide a means whereby protocol developers can assign permanent protocol identifier values without consuming type values.