An extensible data structure for messages in a peer to peer name resolution protocol is presented. This message data structure utilizes a number of fields, each containing a message element. Preferably, the first field is the message header that includes protocol information and identifies the type of message. Each message element contains a number of fields. These message element fields include a type field, a length field, and the content or payload of the message element. In one embodiment, at least ten messages are formed for proper operation of a Peer To Peer Name Resolution Protocol (PNRP), including RESOLVE, RESPONSE, SOLICIT, ADVERTISE, REQUEST, FLOOD, INQUIRE, AUTHORITY, ACK, and REPAIR messages.