A method and system for searching for software agents or directory service agents
in a distributed environment. The system employs a plurality of host computers
that include software agents and/or directory service agents and that are connected
to a network. The method as invoked at one of the host computers searches for other
agents with a recursive search that enables one agent to locate other agents that
match a given criteria. The recursive search may use cross-listed directory services,
negotiated cross-listings and economic considerations.
