The present application is directed to a method for registering with a service layer. The method includes the step of forming a registration group of one or more applications. The method also includes a step of receiving a request to join the registration group, from the one or more applications based upon a review of criteria. The method also includes a step of receiving a registration preference from the one or more applications. Further, the method includes the step of performing service discovery on a network based upon the registration preference of the one or more applications in the registration group. The present application is also directed to a device for registering with a service layer. The present application is further directed to a computer-implemented method for moving from a current service layer to a new service layer.