Directory services network management locator

A complete management system for specialized routers such as, for example, DLSw routers is provided. The management system uses a server to maintain a DLSw Directory, for example an LDAP directory. Whenever a DLSw router is booted, the DLSw router sends a registration message to the Server giving the network address of the DLSw router. The Server then maintains a directory of all DLSw routers in the network (the DLSw Directory). The information maintained in the DLSw Directory has the network address of each DLSw router, as received when the router is booted up. Also, at later times, the DLSw router sends a message to the DLSw Directory giving further information about the DLSw router. The further information comprises data such as: the types of encapsulation being received and routed by the router, etc.