The Cisco Device Connections Program helps device manufacturers simplify setup and networking of consumer electronics, personal computers, mobile devices, and all networked devices. The program provides technology and tools for manufacturers of devices.

Getting equipment set up and networked is not easy for most consumers. The complexity and sheer number of devices in a home network lead to high support costs and frequent product returns, even when the equipment is fully functioning.

The Cisco Home Network Administration Protocol (HNAP) is simple and lightweight. It is easy to implement inside small, cost-constrained hardware such as network routers and cameras, yet powerful enough to handle larger consumer electronics like game consoles, PCs, and media devices. HNAP provides a simple way for device manufacturers to:

• Configure and manage networked devices by a remote entity such as Cisco Network Magic or any other software application that discovers and manages network devices, allowing for updates, firmware updates, and custom applications
• Develop applications through a programmable API to remotely manage and administer networked device connections
• Represent their devices accurately on the Cisco Network Magic network map and uniquely differentiate their device with custom task extensions.

The Cisco Device Connections Program ensures wide availability of HNAP-enabled client devices and takes advantage of Cisco innovations that enhance quality of service and network management.