How are handles resolved?
Handles can be resolved in two ways: By use of a plug-in extension that enables browsers (Netscape and Internet Explorer Version 3+) to recognize the handle protocol and directly communicate with the Handle System® or by use of proxy servers that understand both the handle and http protocols. The former requires the plug-in be downloaded and installed on individual computer workstations; use of the proxy server requires no additional action on the part of the user. DTIC uses a proxy server to simplify and facilitate access to DoD resources. To retrieve data, add the proxy URL ‘http://handle.dtic.mil’ to each handle record. To resolve a handle from a browser window, put the proxy URL into the browser location with the handle (handle prefix + handle suffix). Example: http://handle.dtic.mil/100.2/ADA475594. Handle resolution takes place in a distributed manner with interaction between the Global Handle Registry and local handle services. A handle is initially sent to the Global Handle Reg
