The Handle System is infrastructure, not end user or off-the-shelf software. The current software release, HANDLE.NET 6.2, is written in Java™. To install and run it, you will need skills similar to those of a Systems Administrator.

The interface specification is described in three RFCs, 3650, 3651, and 3652. Before you download and attempt to use the software, you will want to understand the terminology, know how it operates, and think about how you want to use the identifiers you create.

The typical HANDLE.NET software user has one server, one prefix, and creates as many identifiers beginning with that prefix as needed. The software is licensed without charge. You can download the software, install it, and freely configure it. In order to use the software to create identifiers and have them resolve (which is what it's meant to be used for) you have to register as a Resolution Service Provider (RSP). RSPs enter into a Service Agreement and abide by Policies and Procedures that address certain quality of service and operational considerations.

As specified in the Service Agreement, to help defray the cost of running the Global Handle Registry, RSPs pay a one time $50 fee when they register and are issued their prefix, and an annual fee of $50 for the global resolution services. The cost of getting started is $100 for the first year, and $50 each year after. (RSPs who want more than one prefix should contact the Handle System Administrator at hdladmin@cnri.reston.va.us for assistance and cost information.)

If you're already a Handle System software user, see Upgrading to HANDLE.NET Ver. 6.2.

Here's what you should do to start using the Handle System:

1. Learn about the Handle System. At a minimum, read RFC 3650, "Handle System Overview" and Local Handle Services.

2. Read the License. You must agree to the terms of the Handle System Public License Agreement before you download the software.

3. Read the Handle System Service Agreement before you decide to install the HANDLE.NET software. If you wish to run an identifier/resolution system using the Handle System Technology, you must agree to the terms of the Handle System Service Agreement, which incorporates the Policies and Procedures. After you accept the Service Agreement and pay the fees, you will be issued a prefix. You must have a prefix before you can create identifiers.

4. Download the software. See HANDLE.NET Software for download instructions.

5. Install and Configure the software. Installation instructions are in the install.txt file that comes in the software distribution. Configuring the software will produce a file named sitebndl.zip that contains the information that identifies your new handle service. After you register as an RSP you will be prompted by the software to send that file to the Handle System Administrator.

6. Register as an RSP. Instructions for completing the Handle System Registration form are included in the install.txt file. When you register, a confirmation page will display (that can be used as an invoice) that provides payment instructions. You can pay by check or credit card.

7. Request a prefix from the Handle System Administrator. Follow the instructions in the install.txt file.

8. Subscribe to the Mailing List. The Handle-Info Mailing List (replacing Handle-Dev) will enable you to participate in handle software technical discussions, and to be notified of upgrades and new versions of Handle System software.