sorcerer's apprentice mode

	This is the JargonFile ^(V4.00) entry for sorcerer's apprentice mode - Next: SOS, Prev: some random X
:sorcerers apprentice mode: /n./ [from Goethes "Der Zauberlehrling" via Paul Dukass "Lapprenti sorcier" the film "Fantasia"] A bug in a protocol where, under some circumstances, the receipt of a message causes multiple messages to be sent, each of which, when received, triggers the same bug. Used esp. of such behavior caused by bounce message loops in email software. Compare broadcast storm, network meltdown, software laser, ARMM.
* (text is auto-included via JargonExtension by mutante using jargon with VERSION 4.0.0, 24 JUL 1996* - JargonFile by Eric S. Raymond is in the public domain)*