A type of formal publication from the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that provides guidance on processes, methods, or community expectations that are considered the most effective approach at the time of writing. Unlike technical standards that define protocols or architectures, BCPs serve as recommendations for conduct, operations, and procedures across the Internet community.
BCPs exist to capture practical knowledge and consensus about how specific non-technical issues should be handled. They may outline rules for organizational structures, describe how working groups operate, or establish policies for internet governance. For example, BCPs have been used to define IETF procedures, document security practices, and set out policies for the allocation of Internet number resources.
One of the defining characteristics of a BCP is that it is not fixed permanently. Because it reflects what is best at the current moment, it can be updated or even replaced as technology, practices, and community needs evolve. This adaptability ensures that BCPs remain relevant and aligned with modern expectations.
In practical terms, a BCP is highly authoritative within the Internet community. While not consistently prescriptive like a strict standard, it carries significant weight, as it reflects community consensus on the most effective approach to important issues. For engineers, administrators, and organizations, following BCPs helps ensure interoperability, reliability, and credibility in the rapidly changing internet ecosystem.