Semantic Definition Format for Data and Interactions of Things
RFC 9880, “Semantic Definition Format for Data and Interactions of Things”, is a Proposed Standard document published in January 2026 by M. Koster, C. Bormann, A. Keränen. The canonical text is published by the RFC Editor.
Abstract
The Semantic Definition Format (SDF) is a format for domain experts to use in the creation and maintenance of data and interaction models that describe Things, i.e., physical objects that are available for interaction over a network. An SDF specification describes definitions of SDF Objects/SDF Things and their associated interactions (Events, Actions, and Properties), as well as the Data types for the information exchanged in those interactions. Tools convert this format to database formats and other serializations as needed.
What “Proposed Standard” means
An entry-level standards-track specification: stable, peer-reviewed and a solid basis for implementation, though it may still evolve before becoming an Internet Standard.
The canonical text of RFC 9880 is hosted at rfc-editor.org. Available in HTML,TXT,PDF,XML.
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