The .well-known directory in a web server's root is designated by IETF standards for storing specific files that can provide information or services in a standardized way. One of these files is traffic-advice, which serves to inform clients about the current traffic conditions or server capabilities, aiding in better load distribution and traffic management.
The concept of using the .well-known directory for standardized files was introduced with RFC 8615 in 2019. This RFC outlines how the .well-known directory can be used to host URIs that provide well-known resources, enhancing interoperability between clients and servers. Although ".well-known/traffic-advice" was not explicitly mentioned in this initial RFC, the framework it provided allowed for the creation of such specific uses:
The ".well-known/traffic-advice" file typically contains information like:
This information helps clients adjust their behavior to avoid overloading the server during peak times or when maintenance is scheduled.
Here's how ".well-known/traffic-advice" is used:
While there is no specific RFC dedicated solely to ".well-known/traffic-advice", the general principles for using the .well-known directory are outlined in:
Sources:
See Also: